Virtual private server is a type of website hosting in which many users use a single server as a host for their website. In this type of website hosting, the user is given a virtual machine with a memory allotment on a single server. The reason for giving a virtual machine is so that the users are not affected by the over consumption or errors experienced by other users on the same server. So, if you have decided to choose a virtual private server or VPS then you have come to the right place. Here are a few things that might help you choose the ideal VPS that suits your project.
1. The quantity of the resources you require
Your website will obviously consume resources on the server. That is why it is necessary that you decide the amount of that resource, for example the size of hard disk space, CPU, and the amount of RAM you are going to need. The bigger your project, the more resources you will need. If your project is highly likely to expand and grow than you should choose accordingly taking your future plans into consideration.
RAM
If you are going to have numerous projects running at several times, you’ll need more RAM too. The Ideal RAM for a VPS for this purpose would be 4 GB. If your projects are media-intensive, then you’ll need even more than just 4GB.
Hard disk
The traditional hard disk storage space will always be bigger and more inexpensive. But a solid-state drive is recommended for a VPS hosting. They are fast at rebooting, the performance is certainly huge and transfer speeds are more than the traditional disks. The SSD’s are resilient during power failures, which make them a perfect fit for VPS hosting. A faster hard drive is necessary because even if the RAM and CPU are fast you need an equally faster storage drive to service those requests.
2. Choice of OS
There are many choices you get when deciding about the operating system you want on your VPS hosting, but the most common are Windows or Linux. Linux is an open-source operating system and is cheaper than windows. The Windows VPS hosting can be preferred if you are developing in .NET or if you have applications that are designed for the Windows platform.
3. Backend Operations Management
There are two types of VPS hosting, managed and unmanaged. If you think that you have the technical skills to handle backend operations of the server like software updates, patches and security you can opt for the unmanaged VPS. The unmanaged option can save you some money. But if you prefer not to be burdened by these extra tasks, then you can get a staff to do that for you. They will manage the backend operations for a little extra money.
4. Root access
In a Linux based VPS, you get a non-negotiable root access. You can implement scripts, full command controls, SSH and automation that comes without any restrictions. If you need a control panel solution for server admin, operational work or maintenance, the Plesk will do just fine. The Plesk gives you control over its functional operations. Domains, databases and sites are also easy to add.
5. Location of your web host
If you live in Asia, then Singapore is the best location for web hosting as it has the most sophisticated technology and at cheaper rates. You also need to think about your business need of protecting the customer data. India- web hosting companies need to have a near open-door policy for governmental access of sensitive data, whereas web hosting in India are highly reliable for the protection of user data. Therefore, if you need security, then choosing a Canadian web host might prove beneficial for you.
6. Customer support
You want your website to be running at all times. You also expect that the company you hired for your VPS web hosting is responsive. You’ll want eager and responsive people for your support in times of emergencies. If your website starts experiencing problems or if it is being targeted by hackers, then you’ll need an expert team for your support which will help reconstruct or recover your website. There are many hackers out there who are always targeting websites for ransom or for exploiting user data. The customer support should also be available 24/7. The team should be able to defend your website against such hackers and their attacks, for which they should be knowledgeable too.
Choosing the ideal VPS web hosting service for your project can be difficult at times, especially when there are so many brands to choose. I’d recommend choosing the one which gives you the most resources at a reasonable price. Check the physical specifications of the server before choosing. Always be sure of the requirements of your project and choose accordingly the company that gives you exactly what you want.