Your guide to VPS hosting
If you’re considering a virtual private server (VPS) as your next hosting platform then you’re in the right place. Here you’ll find a definitive guide that scratches beneath the surface of top line definitions, giving you the chance to make the right decision for your business.
Translating VPS terms
But before we dive into the deep end, here are some of the key terms you might come across when searching for the right VPS…
| Bandwidth | The amount of data that can be transferred at a given moment to or from a server. |
| (Burstable) RAM | The memory of your VPS server – low memory can result in slow user experiences. ‘Burstable’ RAM is the amount of memory that your VPS can use if you run out of your “Guaranteed Memory”. |
| VPS Node | The physical hardware which runs Virtualization Platform software and hosts one or more VPS. |
| Control Panel | A web based interface, which allows users to manage their server by clicking on different icons. |
| cPanel & Plesk | Two different types of web hosting control panel. |
| GUI | A Graphical User Interface designed for easy management of your VPS. |
| Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) | Allows you to remotely access a desktop computer – and a VPS – to open and edit files. |
| Secure Shell (SSH) | A secure communication protocol that enables two computers to share data over an unsecured network. |
| Managed VPS | An outsourced service that takes care of configuring and managing the server, including tasks such as VPS security, data backups and software updates. |
| Unmanaged VPS | You will retain control over the day-to-day management, maintenance, and monitoring of your VPS. |
What sets VPS hosting apart?
Do you value privacy, scalability, performance and cost-effectiveness? These four key differentiators make VPS hosting a desirable middle-ground between shared and dedicated hosting – ideal for rapidly growing businesses, varying project sizes and regular workload fluctuations.
Many businesses, however, get stuck in the limbo between understanding the benefits and an ambiguity around the application. That’s understandable – there’s a lot of technical lingo and many different VPS avenues you can take.
How to use a VPS
Firstly, you need to decide whether you want a managed or unmanaged VPS. While a managed VPS can take a lot of the stress away from maintaining and configuring your server, the cost is much higher and you'll have less independent control. An unmanaged server is more cost-effective and allows for full autonomy, however requires more time and technical expertise.
Be sure to weigh up the pros and cons of each before you make a decision. After which, you’ll be ready to utilise your powerful, scalable VPS to host:
- Dense and/or high-traffic websites – Ideal for sites with large numbers of pages, lots of images to store and load, and hefty spikes in visitors. A VPS will also be able to handle the use of your own technologies and custom software.
- Your own gaming server – Host massive multiplayer games, with full control. Choose all the settings, upload your own mods, implement your own rules, and invite your friends to join. Enjoy less lag than shared hosting for a lower cost than your own home server.
- A VPN – Keep business, client and personal data safe from hackers – as well as securing your online payment details by creating an encrypted tunnel between your computer and a remote server. Invaluable for business security on public networks.
- Your own VoIP – A Voice over Internet Protocol allows you to make phone calls over the internet, so you can speak to people regardless of location. Useful for global businesses.
- Multiple websites – The generous and scalable RAM and CPU of a VPS lets you host multiple domains at once without affecting performance. Useful for building and hosting websites for clients.
Plus, there's so much more! Explore in detail what you can do with a VPS and follow our easy step-by-step guide to learn how to connect a VPS.
Maximise your VPS features with Fasthosts
Ready to boost your business with a faster, more flexible way to host? Our next-generation VPS is packed full of amazing features that can help you reap all the rewards of this server option, and then some.
Explore our wide-ranging VPS packages to fit your business needs, and get in touch with our friendly team today on 0800 0612 153 for all the expert advice you need to get the ball rolling.