A website needs to be stored on a hosting server to be available online. There are different types of hosting servers available, like Shared Hosting Servers, Virtual Private Servers, Cloud Server Hosting, and Dedicated Servers. Typically, new site owners opt for Shared Hosting since they are cheaper and offer basic features required by a new site. However, once the site starts growing, the hosting server needs to be upgraded. While the upgrade should be decided after analyzing the needs of the website, VPS Hosting is the most preferred option. If you have a website on Shared Hosting, then in this article, you will find pointers to decide if you should buy VPS Server Hosting or not.
What is VPS Hosting?
In VPS Web Hosting, your website resides on a virtual server. The host creates multiple virtual servers from a physical web server by using server virtualization software called a hypervisor. Each virtual server has account isolation, full root access, and dedicated resources. You can choose between a Windows and Linux VPS Server and managed/unmanaged services. The architecture of a VPS Server allows it to function as a Dedicated Server with a few restrictions. Hence, most site owners using Shared Hosting services prefer to migrate to VPS Hosting as the traffic grows.
When should you move to VPS hosting?
If you have been contemplating upgrading your hosting plan, here are some pointers to help you decide if VPS Hosting is perfect for you and when you should consider moving to a VPS Server:
1. Increased site traffic
One of the primary signs of your site outgrowing the hosting plan is unmanageable site traffic. While there can be days of unprecedented traffic spikes, if you find your hosting service falling short in managing the volume of site visitors, then upgrading the server becomes your best bet to ensure optimum site performance. When it comes to managing high volumes of site traffic, VPS Servers with dedicated resources and instant scalability are an excellent choice.
2. Security Concerns
While Shared Hosting plans offer optimum site security, the fact that the server and its resources are shared between multiple users can lead to security issues. While there can be various causes of security issues faced by your site, if the shared server is the root cause, then you might want to consider upgrading to a more secure server. A VPS Server has account isolation and full root access, allowing you to install any third-party security tool to make it more secure. While Dedicated Servers offer top-notch security, the cost of Dedicated Hosting plans is much higher than VPS Hosting plans.
3. Need for customization
As your site grows, you might want to create a unique hosting experience for visitors and need a customized hosting environment. If you have opted for a Linux server, then you would need access to the root directory. This is not possible on a Shared Hosting Server. However, a Linux Server VPS offers full root access, allowing you to customize the hosting environment as per your needs.
4. Instant scalability of resources
Growing websites can have days where the site traffic spikes through the roof. This can be due to a social media post going viral or a keyword gaining traction, or any other reason. On a Shared Hosting Server, the host has limited resources on standby to cater to the scaling requirements of users. Hence, beyond a certain point, your website will face performance issues. However, with VPS Hosting, resource scalability is easy and instant, making it an excellent option for traffic spike management.
The following video also explains the right time to move to a VPS Hosting service:
Summing Up
VPS Hosting has gained popularity for its Dedicated Server-like features at much lower costs. However, before you migrate, don’t forget to spend time understanding what your site needs from the hosting server and choose wisely. Good Luck!
