VPS or not?

covert · #1 07-07-2008, 11:11 PM

We are currently using Network Solutions, we're paying 119.00 for the basic package. Which included 500 e-mails, 25gb DiskSpace, 250gb monthly BW, windows & unix PHP 5 and Java.

For the most part we have been happy with the overall service with the exception of some key issues. First, one of our databases is 40MB which presents a problem when we have had to upload it. Basically they have a 5mb cap which means we have to submit it to them via e-mail for them to upload for us. Which presents a problem because the turn around time has ranged from 1 day to 3 days. Second, whenever we have a problem that requires "real" technical help they require us to "put in a ticket". Which means they escalate it and we should receive an e-mail response within 1 to 3 business days.

Where I'm at:

I called today to discuss some issues we're currently having and the CST suggested going with their VPS option. It would run us 399.99 a year which wouldn't be a problem. However, we have NO server admin experience and are quite intimidated by the prospect of doing this. Although we would love the control over the server and ultimately the site. They also indicated that support at this point would be "paid support" for things that are available to us manually.

What suggestions do you have? Do you think we should take a stab at VPS? Do you have a resource where we can quickly learn the basics of managing via VPS? Or do you think there is another route we could go?

*Thank you in advance for your help*

osphere · #2 07-08-2008, 01:03 AM

If you really need a vps, and have no experience, you may find a managed vps, or hire a server management solution.

**foobic** · #3 07-08-2008, 01:55 AM

Timeouts while uploading large database backups through a web interface can be a common problem - not much the host can do about that. Likewise most hosts will suggest you put in a ticket to request work - it helps to keep records of what's been done, service level monitoring and prioritisation etc.

But 1-3 business days response time, to me, is completely unacceptable. 1-3 hours would be more what I'd expect from a responsive host. And pushing you into a VPS just so you can do this job yourself doesn't seem quite right...

If you really want the extra level of control, and you're willing to learn to use it, then by all means go VPS. But if you just want hosting that works and support that responds then stay with shared and look for a new provider instead. You'll probably still end up spending a bit more than you are now but it should be less stressful!

If you do go shopping for a new hosting plan, first check your actual current usage of disk space and transfer - it's probably far less than the 25GB/250GB your current plan theoretically offers. If you're realistic about your requirements you should find it easier to find a quality host at an affordable price.

HTH

**040Hosting** · #4 07-08-2008, 08:27 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by covert

For the most part we have been happy with the overall service with the exception of some key issues. First, one of our databases is 40MB which presents a problem when we have had to upload it. Basically they have a 5mb cap which means we have to submit it to them via e-mail for them to upload for us. Which presents a problem because the turn around time has ranged from 1 day to 3 days. Second, whenever we have a problem that requires "real" technical help they require us to "put in a ticket". Which means they escalate it and we should receive an e-mail response within 1 to 3 business days.

Hello, welcome to WHT,

First of all, it has been said before; the turnaround of your tickets would suggest you need to search a new webhost; it is quite common you can't get large databases uploaded directly, but your webhost should be able to do this 24x7 and certainly within 1 to 3 hours (or even faster), not 1 to 3 days!

If you are not familiar with VPS management you can go for a fully managed VPS but i do not believe this is the next logical step for many websites. By the sound of it your website should be able to run with a good shared hosting company, maybe if you have many visitors and need a lot of resources you could look at a semi-dedicated offer (these are also fully managed).

If you decide to go for a VPS or even Dedicated you can look for fully managed servers, but be aware, if you do not have any experience with server management be sure that you have a managed service where they act pro-active and not re-active.

I wish you all the best in finding a good solution for your website.

covert · #5 07-08-2008, 08:55 AM

Do you have any companies that you would recommend? Or should I find my current usage and post it?

GerryRosso · #6 07-08-2008, 06:01 PM

Hi, I'm part of the blog team for Network Solutions. I would be happy to trouble-shoot your issues. If you would be kind enough to send me your information. I'm be happy to look into it for you.

Our contact information tinyurl.com/6gsz66

covert · #7 07-08-2008, 06:57 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by GerryRosso

Hi, I'm part of the blog team for Network Solutions. I would be happy to trouble-shoot your issues. If you would be kind enough to send me your information. I'm be happy to look into it for you.

Our contact information tinyurl.com/6gsz66

But it states that you're on vacation until August? And I don't see how I would send you information there? Is there a tab to submit?

markjut · #8 07-08-2008, 07:03 PM

I'd be concerned about the length of time they take to reply, maybe take that into consideration before upgrading to a VPS with the same company.

**foobic** · #9 07-08-2008, 07:03 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by covert

Do you have any companies that you would recommend? Or should I find my current usage and post it?

That would probably be a good way to start. Your requirement for *nix and Windows will severely restrict the choices - this seems to be most often available from providers using the HSphere control panel.

Bear in mind that that members here are only allowed to recommend providers they use / have used - I don't use Windows hosting so I can't recommend anyone suitable. When you need something a bit uncommon it's worth doing your own research and this forum can be a great resource, eg. look for threads like this one: http://www.webhostingtalk.com/showth...636663&page=10

ldcdc · #10 07-08-2008, 07:18 PM

Quote:

But it states that you're on vacation until August? And I don't see how I would send you information there?

Perhaps he's got colleagues that are working in the same department. In any case, contacting by phone is probably what he meant.

Quote:

Which presents a problem because the turn around time has ranged from 1 day to 3 days.

If this had been going on for a long time, I'd consider that their standard level of service. If it doesn't suit your purposes, the only valid choice would be changing providers to one that is known for faster replies and resolution.

covert · #11 07-08-2008, 07:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by foobic

That would probably be a good way to start. Your requirement for *nix and Windows will severely restrict the choices - this seems to be most often available from providers using the HSphere control panel.

Bear in mind that that members here are only allowed to recommend providers they use / have used - I don't use Windows hosting so I can't recommend anyone suitable. When you need something a bit uncommon it's worth doing your own research and this forum can be a great resource, eg. look for threads like this one:

Currently we're using 6% of our total Disk Space which is 25GB and less than 1% of our monthly data transfer which is 250GB.

Right now the estimated turn around time is 1 to 3 days for most things. I called today and asked if they could restore our DB from one of their backups and I was told that it may take up to one day. This was after several phone calls and asking for supervisors because they failed to call me back in the 2 hours window that a supervisor had given me earlier in the day.

I have to say I'm really frustrated, I have a total of 4 sites hosted on NETSol and it seems they just don't care. They escalate things and then you have to wait 1 to 3 days and generally speaking I have to call at that point because I don't hear back anyway.