Virtual Private Server
A Virtual Private Server (abbreviated as VPS) is a dedicated section of a server that is divided or partitioned into several parts to operate like multiple servers. Virtual Private Servers are usually the next step up from shared hosting, and they're a step below dedicated hosting.
Virtual Private Servers afford the operator complete control over the dedicated section of the machine, which acts as its own operating system.
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Advantages of Virtual Private Servers
- Operators maintain full administrative access (root access) to their section.
- Accounts are isolated (to some extent) from other accounts on the same server.
- Hardware and network infrastructures are maintained by the hosting provider.
- They're less expensive than dedicated server plans.
Disadvantages of Virtual Private Servers
- They're more expensive than shared hosting plans, so they're cost-effective only if the allotted space is used.
- Operators are responsible for some of the server-side administration, such as application installation and maintenance. Those who don't have the necessary skills may have to hire someone to administer their VPSes.
- Hardware assets such as CPU, RAM, and Disk I/O are still shared. (it depends on what type of virtualization)
- If you don't secure your VPS properly, it may be open to hackers.
- Most VPSes typically do not allow the modification of the kernel. This can prevent the use of some software that does require kernel modifications.
Types of VPS Solutions
- HyperV
- OpenVZ
- VMware
- Xen
- VDSmanager
- Parallels Virtuozzo
- Linux KVM (Kernel Virtualization Module)
See also
Web Hosting Wiki article text shared under a Creative Commons License.
