If you’ve done any looking into hosting services, you’ve likely realized how many options there are out there. Prices and features range drastically from one service to the next. But what does it all mean? How can some hosting services cost so much more than others?
One of the big differentiators, both in terms of price and functionality, is shared hosting vs. dedicated hosting.
How Does Shared Hosting Work?
Shared hosting is the cheaper option, and while it can be a good fit for many situations, it does come with its limitations.
As the name implies, shared hosting means you’re sharing your service space with other people. The resources available on the server are split between everyone who is using it, limiting the amount of traffic and storage it can handle.
If someone else on the server experiences a surge of traffic, it could slow down your site. Another website could even crash the server altogether.
Additionally, shared servers can potentially open you up to more security threats. You may keep your website, plugins, software, etc. updated and secured against today’s threats. The other people on your server might not, however. If they get breached, it could bring the whole server down. Or someone else’s website could act as a backdoor into your own.
Finally, you have less control over a shared server. Since other people are using it, you can’t adjust it to best server your needs. That’s not to say shared servers are always bad. Far from it. They’re a great solution for many simple, smaller websites and personal needs. Companies that rely on their website and online assets to run their business, however, should look to dedicated hosting.
Do I Need Dedicated Hosting?
Dedicated hosting is great for organizations and businesses who experience high traffic, run more complex functionality on their website, and/or have greater storage needs. With a dedicated server, you have a piece of physical hardware that’s dedicated solely to your business.
Choosing a dedicated server also opens up more customization options, such as OS, control panel software, security protocols, and more.
A dedicated server provides the highest level of security, performance, and control. Certain compliance standards might even require you to have one. However, it’s also the most expensive option. Another choice that serves as more of a middle ground is a dedicated cloud server or VPS (virtual private server).
How Does Dedicated Cloud Hosting Work?
Rather than providing you with providing you with separate hardware, dedicated cloud hosting creates a virtual environment that’s exclusive to you. This way, you get the amount of resources you need while remaining secure and protected from outside threats.
While there are technically other clients on the server, you’re protected from them.
Dedicated cloud hosting makes it easy to scale your operations as your needs grow.
What’s Right for Me?
Choosing the right hosting is an important decision for businesses. It’s a balance of budget, functionality, and general necessity. At DataYard, we offer a variety of hosting options to suite your needs, whatever they might be.
We more than happy to answer any questions you might have so that you can make an educated choice.
For hosting and IT consultation in Dayton, Ohio and beyond, contact DataYard today.
