Dedicated Servers

text size AAA Published December 27, 2011

Overview

A server stores a website and sends information to the browser when a web page is requested by a user. When you type a website address, you will actually visit an Internet Protocol (IP) address that directs you to a server. Servers provide storage space for your website and all related files including images, monitoring tools, and software. Servers can house one or many websites.

Dedicated web hosting services will reserve a server for your website. If you choose dedicated server solution, you will not have to share storage space and bandwidth with other websites. For websites that transfer large amount of data, have high traffic, and require a lot of bandwidth, a dedicated server is necessary. Most multiuser online games websites use dedicated servers.

When you choose a dedicated server to host your website, you can select a managed server. Small to medium sized companies that do not have a website administration department benefit most from managed web hosting services. Managed servers come with a package for network administration. You can dedicate your resources to other business needs. If you have the resources and technical expertise, you can select a dedicated server that is not managed. You will have maximum control over your website, and you can make changes whenever you want. When selecting a dedicated server, you should consider processor speed, bandwidth, hard disk size, RAM, and uptime/downtime speeds.

Hosting your website on a dedicated server is more expensive when compared to shared servers. The cost of hosting depends on the size of your website, expected traffic, and the hosting service provider.

Benefits

Dedicated servers are expensive but come with many advantages. You can choose an operating system that matches your needs. Some businesses may prefer Linux while others prefer Windows. Dedicated servers also give you the freedom to manage and monitor your website. These servers have a high bandwidth and provide good web host connectivity. Dedicated servers have a high uptime, can run problem-free, and are more secure in comparison to other types of servers. Dedicated servers are ideal for shopping carts, forums, and photo galleries. You'll have more space and enhanced security features.

How It Works

A dedicated server can be purchased or leased from a server provider. You get access to a server through an online control panel that allows you to perform administrative tasks. You can perform all server administration functions, upgrades, and installations yourself, or you can enable the hosting provider to manage the website for you.

Dedicated servers are based on two types of operating systems: Linux and Windows. These servers support technologies like Active Server Pages (ASP), Hypertext Preprocessor (PHP), ASP.Net, MYSQL, and MSSFQL.