Written By: Oplink.net | Last Updated: August 2022
We’ve put together everything you need to know about Virtual Private Servers so that you have all the information at your fingertips to decide what will work best for you.
First, we will introduce the concept and explain how it is utilized before considering differences with VPS and Dedicated Servers. We’ll review advantages and disadvantages before considering cost.
What is a Virtual Private Server?
Sometimes called a virtual private server, a (VPS) looks like a dedicated server to the user.
It acts nearly identical to a typical bare metal server or dedicated server. However an individual server (node) can have several virtual private servers.
Each one can have a unique operating system that runs hosting software or services for each end user.
Virtualization software provides users with access to a unique virtual machine (VM) with abstracted resources on a physical server. VMs controlled by other users are logically private and secure.
What is a VPS used for?
Virtual Private Servers are best suited for smaller workloads that demand consistent performance.
Businesses can implement VPS for a variety of purposes such as;
- Hosting Websites
- Databases
- Private Secure Email Hosting
- cPanel or Plesk hosting
- Virtual workstations for remote workforce
- Building cloud based services for customers
- Create Secure VPN(s)
VPS can be used for anything you would use a dedicated server for but with less storage.
VPS are a more affordable option because you only get charged for what you’re using.
What’s the Difference Between VPS and VPN?
People often get confused with VPS v VPN. They are two completely separate things.
A VPN is used for one thing, keeping your internet connection encrypted when you are on a unsecure or public network. This makes it more safe and secure when internet browsing. A VPN can also help people in countries that block or censor access to the internet. By using a VPN users can bypass these restrictions.
A VPS is a low cost private server that can host many different things as discussed above. Many of our customers buy a VPS to install VPN software as well.
Virtual Private Server v Dedicated Server
Virtual Private Servers provide several accounts that run off the same server but have unique limits on CPU, memory, storage, and bandwidth. Dedicated servers provide an entire server to yourself, total control from day one.
We have a great resource on dedicated servers for additional reading, and you can also enquire about our dedicated server packages
Your business needs are specific to you which means that your server considerations will be too. Overall, dedicated servers win out on resource allocation, security and performance.
VPS have an edge on scalability and price.
This style of hosting can grow with your business and is totally flexible in a changing landscape. They’re also cheaper than dedicated servers with a more cost effective pricing structure – you pay for what you use and you can start small.
Advantages of VPS
The primary advantage of VPS is maximizing resources to fit your requirements while providing the flexibility to host additional services as needed and scale up to more resources very fast.
VPSs are cost effective to split up your services. You can have production services on one VPS and development on another VPS. You can create redundancy by adding more than one VPS on different nodes(servers in our VPS system)
Cost is simply lower for a VPS compared to a dedicated server. This is because the entire device is provided to a dedicated server customer.
VPS are also generally easier to manage. The control panel access provides quick backend access to manage, setup, backup, reload, or troubleshoot your VPS operating system.
Disadvantages of VPS
In terms of resource and performance, VPS cannot match dedicated servers – as you are sharing node resources. In rare instances when another user is abusing a node, Oplink.net will intervene. We monitor all node resources and stop abuse to avoid issues.
Security is a further disadvantage. It goes without saying that when you are sharing a server the risks are higher. Multi tenant environments run a higher risk.
How Much Does a VPS Cost?
Virtual Private Servers cost between $7 – $300 per month depending on your needs. This is vastly different from dedicated servers which run between $50 and $500 on a monthly basis.
It really comes down to what your business values and what would work best for your growth over time and current structure.
Scale your Business with Affordable Flexibility
Virtual Private Servers are ideal for a variety of purposes at a price that is cost effective. Value for money definitely comes to mind when considering a VPS but make sure it will cater to all your needs.
When you have specific goals in mind for your small to medium business, a VPS could be the ideal choice for you.
Let’s chat about how Oplink.net can support you in finding the most optimal solution for your business.