In the realm of web hosting, a VPS (virtual private server) emerges as a compelling option. This type of hosting package operates by partitioning a physical server into multiple virtual segments, each functioning as an independent and isolated server. Through this approach, you gain access to dedicated computing resources, resulting in enhanced control, improved security, and heightened overall performance.

By opting for a VPS server instance, you unlock elevated privileges, granting you greater control over your allocated disk space, memory, vCPUs, and software configuration. In essence, it mirrors the experience of having your very own virtual dedicated server within a data center, but at a fraction of the cost.

To shed light on the topic, this comprehensive guide aims to demystify the concept of VPS and elucidate why VPS hosting stands as the optimal choice for your specific requirements.

How Does a VPS Work?

Virtualization encompasses various techniques, and VPS hosting operates by leveraging a complete dedicated server (or a cloud hosting network). It achieves this by dividing the server into individual “nodes” and running discrete “containers” within these nodes. This ingenious approach empowers virtual private servers to deliver superior power and control, all while maintaining an affordable cost compared to dedicated hosting solutions.

However, it’s essential to clarify that VPS hosting is not synonymous with “shared” hosting. Unlike shared hosting, where resources are shared among multiple users on the same server, a VPS provides dedicated resources exclusively for your use.

In fact, a VPS allows you to host multiple websites without compromising on speed and performance. This makes it an excellent choice for managing a diverse range of sites or even establishing your own hosting service as a reseller.

Furthermore, the CPU of a server can be effectively partitioned into separate virtual nodes, also known as virtual CPUs or vCPUs. This allocation of virtual resources further enhances the flexibility and efficiency of a VPS environment.

CPU vs vCPU

A Central Processing Unit (CPU) is a physical chip found within a server and serves as the primary “brain” of a computer, responsible for executing tasks and performing calculations. On the other hand, a Virtual CPU (vCPU) is a software-based allocation or “sharing” of the resources provided by the physical processor among different virtual machine instances.

The number of vCPU cores directly correlates to the processing power available for handling workloads within your environment. Simply put, the more vCPU cores you have, the greater the capacity to compute data efficiently. For instance, in theory, a VPS equipped with 4 vCPUs would complete a task using half the resources and in half the time compared to a VPS with only 2 vCPUs.

At InMotion, their VPS servers offer a range of 2 to 4 vCPU cores, depending on the specific plan you select. This ensures that you have the appropriate level of processing power to meet your requirements.

In contrast, shared server environments operate differently. In these setups, your website “shares” all the available resources, including the CPUs, with other accounts hosted on the same server.

Do I Really Need VPS Hosting?

If you’ve noticed a decline in your website’s performance or find yourself reaching the limits of your shared hosting account, it may be time to consider upgrading to VPS hosting. The entry-level features of VPS hosting offer an immediate performance boost and are only slightly more expensive than some of the top shared hosting plans available.

There are several reasons why you might want to switch to VPS hosting:

1. Slow website load times: As your website grows with more content and media, it’s natural for it to slow down, especially when you’ve reached the limits of shared hosting. VPS hosting allows you to decrease page loading times and leverage dedicated resources to ensure optimal performance.

2. High traffic volume: If your website is gaining popularity and experiencing higher levels of traffic, your regular shared hosting plan might not be able to handle the load. With a virtual private server, you can easily accommodate increased traffic and upgrade resources as needed.

3. Large data storage requirements: Backing up and storing large amounts of data can put a strain on CPU power. While hosting on a powerful NVMe SSD and top-notch hardware helps, a VPS snapshot offers a quick restoration solution by saving your entire virtual machine as a single file. The creation and restoration process relies on your hosting provider’s virtualization software, relieving the burden from your virtual system.

4. eCommerce and financial transactions: If you run an online store or process payments on your website, you need a PCI compliance certificate. Shared hosting plans often fall short in terms of security, exposing you to higher risks. VPS hosting provides the necessary security measures to protect sensitive information.

5. Data sensitivity: Websites that handle payment processing, customer databases, or have custom requirements need to prioritize data security. Shared hosting’s shared use of an IP address poses a risk, as hackers can exploit vulnerabilities in other sites within the shared hosting environment. A VPS ensures better isolation and security for your sensitive data.

6. Custom software or application requirements: Shared hosting environments have limitations on customization since multiple owners share the server. File servers, streaming servers, game servers, radio stations, podcasts, and more require the flexibility and resources of a VPS or dedicated server.

7. Server errors and downtime: Frequent occurrences of “Service Unavailable” or 503 errors indicate that your server is unable to handle web requests. These errors often result from memory limitations in your hosting plan. Any “50X” error code (503, 504, 507, 508) could indicate that your site has exceeded the allocated resources. Every moment of downtime means lost business opportunities.

8. Overages and additional charges: While InMotion Hosting doesn’t charge for exceeding limits, other shared hosting providers might. Upgrading to VPS hosting ensures you have the necessary power and speed to handle unexpected spikes in traffic without incurring additional costs.

Considering these factors, transitioning to VPS hosting can provide you with the performance, control, and security needed to support your growing website or online business.

Types of VPS Hosting

In the realm of VPS hosting, there are two distinct options to consider: managed and unmanaged.

Managed VPS hosting takes the hassle out of setting up and maintaining your virtual server. With this option, you’ll find that the VPS comes pre-loaded with a control panel and essential software, saving you time and effort. Hosting companies often go a step further by offering additional management services, making it accessible even for those who may not have expert knowledge in hosting technologies. Managed VPS hosting is a convenient choice that allows users to enjoy the benefits of private hosting without the complexities.

On the other hand, unmanaged VPS hosting provides a more hands-on approach for users who prefer greater control and cost savings. With an unmanaged VPS, you receive the bare minimum of hosted services. This means you’ll have access to an operating system and a text-based terminal, and that’s about it. For those who are confident in their technical skills and enjoy do-it-yourself solutions, unmanaged VPS hosting offers a cost-effective way to save money and enjoy a higher degree of freedom in server customization. However, it’s important to note that managing an unmanaged VPS requires a certain level of expertise and time investment.

When deciding between managed and unmanaged VPS hosting, it’s crucial to consider your level of technical proficiency and the amount of time you’re willing to dedicate to server management. While managed VPS hosting comes at a higher cost, it offers the convenience of professional support and pre-configured settings. On the other hand, unmanaged VPS hosting appeals to those who have the necessary skills and prefer a more hands-on approach, along with the opportunity to save on costs. Ultimately, choosing the right option depends on your specific needs and preferences.

How To Manage Your VPS

Transitioning to VPS hosting introduces new responsibilities that you should be aware of. Even with a managed VPS, there are certain aspects that remain under your control:

1. Software Management: You have the freedom to decide which software you want to install and how frequently you want to update it. This allows you to tailor your VPS environment to your specific needs and stay up to date with the latest software versions.

2. Subaccount Maintenance: Managing subaccounts, such as additional cPanel users, is another task that falls within your jurisdiction. You have the authority to allocate resources and determine the level of access each subaccount receives.

3. Security and Access: As the owner of a VPS, it is your responsibility to prioritize the safety and security of your server. This includes safeguarding root-level access keys and passwords, which are crucial for administrative tasks. Implementing proper security protocols is essential for maintaining a protected environment.

While VPS hosts can assist you in setting up the necessary protocols, it is ultimately up to you to handle day-to-day maintenance. Regular monitoring, updates, and proactive measures are vital for ensuring the smooth operation of your VPS.

By assuming these responsibilities, you gain greater control and customization options with your VPS hosting. It’s important to understand the level of involvement required to effectively manage your VPS and ensure its optimal performance.