In many ways, Virtual Private Servers are the unsung heroes in the web hosting business. They’re powerful, flexible, and customizable, but without the heavier enterprise-level costs of a dedicated server. And yet, many users don’t consider VPS Hosting when looking to host their website online. Perhaps it’s because the term “virtualization” can be intimidating.

We’re here today to break down the basics of VPS Hosting so that you can find out if a VPS server is the right fit for you.

 

What is a Virtual Private Server? How can a server be virtual?

A Virtual Private Server (VPS) is a virtual machine rented out to web hosting customers. A VPS is technically a dedicated server, however, using virtualization software, several virtualized operating systems are able to run on one server. One physical server turns into several virtual dedicated servers. The physical server containing the VPS hosting environments is called a node and each VPS hosting environment is called a container.

 

What are the benefits of using VPS Hosting?

A VPS server is unique in that it is both a dedicated server and a shared hosting environment. In short, VPS Hosting allows you to rent a smaller portion of a server, but also maintain the privacy and customization features that you would get from owning a dedicated server. As a result, businesses who require less server space can receive many of the same advantages as full servers would, at a fraction of the cost.

The major benefits of VPS Hosting include:

  • Privacy—your virtual operating system belongs to you only.
  • Customization—you can customize the server to your needs.
  • Control—although you share a server with other VPS servers, you can control yours without affecting anyone else.
  • Dedicated resources—You have access to resources that no one else can utilize, like dedicated amounts of RAM.

 

Who is VPS Hosting ideal for?

Although there are exceptions, anyone who plans to grow their business may find it valuable to choose a VPS Hosting plan due to its flexibility and affordability. A VPS will grow as you grow so that when the time comes to handle influxes of traffic, your VPS will be ready. This makes VPS Hosting ideal for:

  • Startups
  • Small businesses
  • Up-and-coming bloggers
  • Fast-growing web applications

 

How is a Virtual Private Server managed?

You can access your VPS several ways:

  • Remote desktop—access your server remotely from any location through a desktop
  • SSH (Secure Shell) client—open-source software like PuTTY for Windows
  • WHMCS—paid, automated solution that comes with cPanel or Plesk control panel
  • cPanel—paid license for cPanel control panel

All Canadian Web Hosting Virtual Private Servers include:

  • Flexible deployment
  • Full root access
  • Choice of operating system
  • Optional control panels

 

What is the difference between VPS hosting and dedicated hosting?

Dedicated hosting involves renting a dedicated server that is all yours. On the other hand, VPS hosting requires sharing a server—although virtualization software gets you your own piece of the dedicated server that you’re sharing.

The key thing to remember is that with dedicated hosting you have an entire server to yourself, so you get full customization and allocation of resources. You’re able to choose the equipment, including the type and size of RAM, hard drive, and processor, used in your server and 100% of those resources will go towards your website.

 

Can I upgrade my shared hosting to a VPS hosting plan?

Yes! We’ll be happy to help with your infrastructure upgrade. Contact us at sales@canadianwebhosting.com or 1-888-821-7888.

Canadian Web Hosting’s VPS Hosting plans start at $5 per month and include 512MB of memory, 1 core processor, 20GB of storage, and 1TB of bandwidth. It is the perfect plan for those who are just beginning their websites but plan on growing. For those who are looking for a higher-end virtual server, consider checking out our SSD High-Performance VPS options.

 

Where are your Virtual Private Servers located?

Our Virtual Private Servers are located within our Canadian data centres. Our data centres are located in Vancouver, BC and Toronto, Ontario. Our network engineers are on site 24/7/365 to ensure our servers are running at peak performance. Our network engineers are available at any time by phone or email in the event of an emergency.

Did we miss your question about Virtual Private Servers? Ask us in the comments below or contact us directly.

Photo by Esteban Lopez on Unsplash