in terms of a dedicated server, what exactly does "managing" a server entail.

In a managed situation you wont usually get root.

So affectivly its like having a reselling account on a whole server just for you.

but what exactly do they do? i guess waht im asking is waht is the point in getting a managed ded server?

Originally posted by rlynch
but what exactly do they do? i guess waht im asking is waht is the point in getting a managed ded server?

the alternative is colocation. Colocation puts the burden of purchasing and maintaining your own hardware, installing, configuring and maintaining your own software. Managed means they pick the hardware, they are responsible for the failures should they occur, and they install, patch, and maintain the operating system.

Managed can mean a variety of definitions so you will need to read your provider's SLA.

Originally posted by rlynch
but what exactly do they do? i guess waht im asking is waht is the point in getting a managed ded server?

Takes the burden off you for updating it and general OS managment.

is there a difference between a dedicated server and a managed dedicated server? or are all dedservers managed

With most dedicated servers (unmanaged), you're in charge of keeping software current, applying patches, and etc. With a managed dedicated, your host will provide this service for you. If you're unfamiliar with Linux, it's best to go the managed route until you can comfortably perform these tasks on your own.

ALWAYS ask the provider what managed means to them get it written out what they will do and will not do what they charge extra for etc.

I have seen some people call it managed if they do a reboot for you, where others will update software monitor the server etc.

One thing I have found is there are all kinds of cowboys in the dedicated server field from 12 year olds to just plan scams, so make sure you do a search know the company and who you are dealing with, get your expectations understood and agreed upon in advanced. Just becasue it says managed do not take it for granted that your understanding of managed is the same as the person you are getting the server from.

Yep. Means different things to different providers. Always best to get their definition.

Greetings:

"In terms of a dedicated server, what exactly does "managing" a server entail."

That is a loaded question <smile>.

The word, "managed" in "managed hosting," "managed servers," and "managed services" has become so over used and abused in the past two years it is not even funny anymore to those of us in the industry.

In the early days it meant complete and full care of everything but proprietary applications and content.

All the customer had to do was to maintain their content and any proprietary applications they developed or purchased.

Now, with that stated, if you are going to get a dedicated server, what management you have to do depends on the data center or provider from whom you rent the dedicated server.

Your best bet is to ask them to clarify their responsibilities and yours.

RS is not managed even though they handle your hardware you still get root.It vary's From host to host.Managed can be a good thing like you have support and they can fix whatever problems you may experience which you would have to fix yourself on an unmanaged ex. the os

The definition of a "Managed" server varies from provider to provider. You will want to check with your provider to see what they do.

A managed server should include all software updates, security updates, setting up the box to your custom configurations, handling any support requests regarding the OS and its configuration, OS troubleshooting, troubleshooting of other supported software (check with your provider to see what other software they support), and of course anything dealing with the hardware.

Also check to see if they have an SLA pertaining to support. Many managed providers are now offering a SLA guaranteeing a certain level of support and response time.