How to Choose a Reliable VPS Provider

How to Choose a Reliable VPS Provider

A virtual private server (VPS) is essentially a server partition that is divided into individual servers for customers to host their domain(s) and web files on. The host typically allocates a certain amount of resources to each partition, allowing you to independently control and customize your server however you wish. Many of these servers even allow you to install multiple operating systems on them at once for added versatility. Looking into VPS hosting is an ideal option for businesses who experience high traffic volumes on their domains, or even those who are simply looking to expand their horizons. During your search for a new VPS host, you’re going to want to keep certain aspects at the forefront of your mind, in order to ensure that you choose a host that meets all of your current and future needs.

Storage Options: Conventional or Cloud-Based?

Most VPS packages offer consumers with two main options: conventional VPS hosting and cloud-based hosting. Conventional VPS packages (also known as traditional VPS hosts) run off of a singular partition, while cloud-based VPS platforms run off of a network of various servers. Cloud-based VPS options are recommended for businesses that generate upwards of 50,000 visitors on a daily basis, since cloud-based VPS’s are able to handle much larger traffic loads under their multi-network platforms. Conventional VPS options are more geared toward smaller businesses who are able to host their website(s) on one sole partition without the risk of it overloading due to high traffic volumes.

Check out the Interface of the VPS Host’s Dashboard/Control Panel

Purchasing a VPS package usually comes with a dashboard (often referred to as the “control panel”), where you can manage all of your domains from one area. It is important to make sure that the specific dashboard that your host of choice offers is user-friendly and easy to navigate. Managing one or multiple domains through a VPS host can be a complicated endeavor, but when a VPS host offers a dashboard with accessible options, it makes the whole operation a lot easier and much more approachable.

When overlooking the dashboard’s interface, check to see if they offer any advanced management options. Most dashboards come equipped with management categories such as account information settings, mail options, and traffic stats. While these and a few others are enough to get you through the basics of managing your domain, many VPS hosts offer advanced categories such as reseller options, themes, and more extensive file management options. If you are looking for a less restricted hosting format, then choosing a VPS host whose dashboard has more advanced options may be a better choice.

Does the VPS Host Perform Regular Backups?

One of the most vital things to consider when shopping for a new VPS host, is to find out if they routinely backup their servers. Whether they allow you to do this manually through the control panel or on their own accord, it is imperative that your web files are backed up consistently. Backing up files automatically about once per week is ideal, but even if they give you the option of easily performing the action yourself, then you shouldn’t have to worry about losing any important data held on your server.

Choosing a Managed vs Unmanaged Option

For those who think that they may need some assistance when it comes to performing any necessary administrative tasks, most VPS hosts offer managed hosting packages. Managed VPS domain hosting gives administrative duties to another individual on the team, saving you the time and hassle that goes along with upgrading software, updating your system, and dealing with glitches and downtime. This is a great option for those who may not consider themselves very familiar with hosting in general, and will alleviate the added responsibility and stress. Managed VPS hosting also usually comes with complimentary technical support 24/7 for any issues that are not instantaneously addressed and taken care of by the administrator. The only downside of managed hosting is that it is somewhat less flexible than unmanaged, as the host has more control how much of your resources are used on various things.

What and How Much Resources Will the Host Allocate to You?

The main predicament that people run into with VPS hosts versus dedicated hosts, is that the resources that the host allows your server is typically distributed to the whole partition. This means that unfortunately you could wind up with less resources than what you previously signed up and paid for, while the other servers get the majority of the leftover resources. This may seem like a bad situation for just you and your team, but this can also overload the other customers on their own servers with the burden of too many resources. Carefully look into how the VPS host is known to allocate their resources so that you can guarantee that you will receive a fair amount of them on your own particular server.

Choosing the right VPS host should be an operation that is taken seriously, involving careful consideration. Your online presence is key to your business productivity in nearly any industry, so your VPS host should be chosen wisely and attentively. Having your site hosted by a reliable and reputable VPS will not only provide you with an added level of security, but it will make every task much more hassle-free when it comes to managing your domain.