A virtual private server, also called Virtual Private Server (VPS) or Virtual Dedicated Server (VDS) in English, is a virtualized server on a physical server which groups together many virtual servers. Discover the definition, operation, advantages and disadvantages of VPS, as well as the criteria to take into account when choosing a supplier.
A virtual private server is an equipment offering concretely the same possibilities as a dedicated server. However, the computer where the server is located aggregates multiple virtual servers. Each VPS installed on the computer works with its own OS and runs hosting software for a specific user.
Virtual dedicated server (VPS): how does it work?
Virtual Private Servers providers use virtualization software, also called hypervisors. They provide users with access to an emulated server based on the resources of a physical server. This emulated server is called a virtual machine (VM). Each virtual machine has a fully-fledged operating system, benefits from access to part of the computing power, RAM and storage of the physical server on which it is located.
Users have access to the operating system of the virtual machine. However, they cannot access the physical server directly. Thus, several users can use virtual machines emulated on the same server, but cannot access the virtual machines of other users. Thus, despite the absence of physical separation, each VM finds itself separated.
Virtual dedicated server: what a difference with shared hosting
VPS should not be confused with shared hosting. To understand the difference between the two, the easiest way is to take the example of real estate. Shared accommodation is like renting an apartment. The host who owns all the space is comparable to the owner of the building. The owner rents both the apartments and the common areas like the swimming pool, the parking spaces or the gym which are comparable to the computing power, the RAM and the disk space. For their part, the inhabitants share these resources.
In the case of the virtual dedicated server, users can own their apartment. Common areas are always shared, but a portion can be owned. However, unlike the tenant of an apartment (shared accommodation), the owner must maintain his interior himself and take care of repairs and modifications. Note also that the VPS brings together far fewer residents. The major drawback? The price generally higher than shared hosting. Users must also have technical skills, in particular to use unmanaged hosting. VPS also requires more time and effort, for example to ensure that it remains stable and secure.
If we compare the VPS with the dedicated server, to spin the metaphor, we could compare the first cited to an affordable property. The dedicated accommodation is closer to a luxurious home. The user is the owner here, is responsible for all cleaning and maintenance, but also for the exterior and the landscape. Technical expertise is therefore essential. In short, the VPS is located halfway between shared hosting and the dedicated server.
vps vs shared hosting
Dedicated virtual server: what are the advantages of VPS?
VPS has several advantages over traditional web hosting services. One of the main advantages is the ability to access the full operating system of the Virtual Private Server. Root and administrator permissions are not restricted. Thus, each user can configure their Virtual Private Server according to their own preferences and needs.
The user can also opt for additional services such as an FTP site, a mail server, or specialized applications for e-commerce or blogging for example. Another benefit is that VPS allows the user to host multiple websites. The advantages are therefore multiple.
Dedicated virtual server: what are the disadvantages?
In general, VPS hosting is used for small businesses who seek the flexibility of a dedicated server, but do not have the means to invest in such a device. Unfortunately, it has several weaknesses compared to a real dedicated server.
First of all, performance does not reach that of a real dedicated server. Virtual dedicated server providers tend to limit server performance to maximize the number of units that a physical server can support. Even when there is no performance problem, an adjacent virtual dedicated server may consume too many resources and reduce performance. The power of a dedicated server remains higher.
Another disadvantage of VPS to take into account concerns security. They are generally based on server virtualization, which allows them to be isolated from each other. However, zero risk does not exist, and it is better to avoid shared environments.
Virtual dedicated server: what criteria should be taken into account?
Several criteria must be taken into account when choosing a VPS provider (DMTwebhosting.com). Among the main criteria is the operating system (Windows or Linux). You also have to choose between a managed server or not. If you do not have a certain level of expertise, it is preferable to opt for a managed virtual dedicated server. It is also preferable to find out about the redundancy and scalability offered by the supplier. It must provide you with a minimum level of service.
How to get a free VPS? Difficult
Of course, the price is also one of the most important criteria. The prices can vary enormously from one Virtual private server to another depending on the performances and the functionalities offered. Typically, a basic VPS with 2GB of RAM and 20GB of storage space costs between $ 12 and $ 20 per month. Some providers offer a free trial period, which can be very useful in checking whether the offer meets your needs.
You will also need to choose between a conventional VPS or a cloud-based model. In the case of a cloud SDV, the physical server which groups together the virtual servers is in fact made up of several machines. SDV cloud offers more flexibility as it makes it easy to add servers to the cluster, and also allows more storage space to be added to the centralized storage system.
Another essential criterion: the technical characteristics of the VPS which define performance. The RAM, storage space, restrictions on data transfers, distributions, backup functionality, the number of IP addresses offered or the processor power must meet your needs. Finally, the quality of customer service is to be studied in detail.
Cheap VPS: The Best Virtual Servers
There are a large number of VPS providers on the market, and not all of them are created equal. Discover the list of VPS at the best value for money through our selection of the best virtual servers.
DMTwebhosting, the simplest VPS offer
In a VPS market where the offers are often complex, DMTwebhosting stands out for its simplicity. The company offers five different packages.
Prices start at just $ 12 per month, making it a pretty affordable service. For this price, you will still benefit from 2GB of RAM, Four CPU cores, 20GB of storage space, 20TB of bandwidth and a dedicated IP. If you need more dedicated IPs, you can also buy them individually for $ 3 per month.
The downside is that the cheapest plan is not managed by the host, and does not include the cPanel license. It will therefore be necessary to pay for these additional features. The offer may therefore prove to be more expensive than it seems at first glance.
Despite this, the many configuration possibilities offered by DMTwebhosting VPS are ideal for experienced users. Beginners, on the other hand, will be able to turn to other more suitable options.