VPS vs dedicated server – what’s best for you?

Choosing between a VPS and a dedicated server can be a tough decision. Both products offer their own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to carefully consider the requirements that you have. In this article, we’ll compare a VPS and a dedicated server to figure out what is best for you.

What is a server used for?

A server can be used in various applications:

• Hosting a website
• Sharing files or email mailboxes
• Providing files for download
• Sharing databases and programs

Both a VPS and a dedicated server can be suitable for all these uses. We’ll explain how in the sections below.

VPS – full control on a shared server

The term VPS is an acronym for a virtual private server. A VPS is a virtual system that is provided by a dedicated host server.

Multiple virtual servers are located on one host server, sharing the performance of the host system. Each VPS has allocated resources set by the host that are exclusively available to the individual user. A VPS includes not only the provision of storage space but also guaranteed computing power and memory.

A VPS has its own IPv4 address and can be used like a real server. The virtual server can be configured and managed as the user prefers. Restarting or shutting down the server is always possible, and you can install almost any software.

A VPS is recommended mainly for more complex and demanding applications than simple web hosting. Custom system settings can be made, but they are not set by the host. Technical understanding and in-depth knowledge of server administration are essential for using a VPS.

What can you do with a VPS?

A VPS can be used for various applications projects:

• Web server
• Email server
• Data server
• Server for an online shop
• Game server
• Private cloud storage
• Server for calendar and tasks

Advantages of a VPS

• Run any compatible application
• Customise your installation
• Significantly lower price than dedicated server
• Dedicated IP address

Dedicated server

A dedicated server is a physical server provided in a data centre with a fixed IP address. Unlike a VPS, a dedicated server offers hardware that is exclusively available to you, with guaranteed computing power and connectivity.

The costs of renting a dedicated server are significantly higher than those of a VPS due to its exclusivity. Using a dedicated server also requires a high level of technical understanding.

Advantages of a dedicated server

• Highest flexibility
• Freedom to customise hardware
• High security
• Full control over the server

What can you do with a dedicated server?

A dedicated server is suitable for very complex projects that cannot be handled by a VPS. A dedicated server offers maximum freedom and is ideal if you are willing to spend more money on your server. These are some use cases for a dedicated server:

• Webserver for complex websites with very high traffic
• Server for very large online shops
• Database server for big projects

VPS vs dedicated server

A VPS is the best option for most users as it provides a good balance between price, performance and freedom. That said, here are some use-cases for both a VPS and dedicated server.

Best uses for a VPS

• When your resource needs tend to change often
• When you’re on a tight budget
• When you need easy management

Best uses for a dedicated server

• When you have strict compliance requirements
• When you need sustained high-performance
• When you need to run an operating system that a VPS does not support

Get started with a VPS

If you have decided to start using a VPS, we offer plans for every business. Start by choosing Windows or Linux and picking a plan with the needed resources. If your needs change, you can always change your plan.