In layman’s terms, a dedicated server or managed hosting server is a single powerful computer removed from a network of other computers to serve one primary purpose – as in not shared with other computers. This setup is normally utilized by large companies as employing this method of web hosting increases the level of security and space needed to carry out the organization’s IT related tasks.
Other advantages of a dedicated hosting service (another name it is also referred) also allows the organization to customize both the hardware and software setup to meets its needs, such as the creation of multiple domain names. Having multiple domains under one dedicated server eases administrative handling and support of all sites, which leads to speedy accessibility and ultimately keeps the cost of managing a plethora of different domains down.
How does it work?
Typically, the company in need of a dedicated server will buy it from a hosting company – who is then tasked with managing and supporting it though a few of the following ways:
- Internet connectivity
- Security implementations (firewall, antivirus etc)
- Server monitoring
- Operating system implementation, support and updates
- Database administration
- Performance tuning
- User management
- All software installation and tuning
Managed and unmanaged hosting
When looking for the best dedicated web hosting options available, you will normally come across two main types: Managed and unmanaged.
Managed Hosting: As implied by the name, managed hosting is the ideal choice for owners with little to no administrative server skills and involves full and unrestricted maintenance by the service provider. In most cases, the only thing left to worry about is maintenance of content on the actual domain.
Unmanaged Hosting: With this setup, one is fully responsible for the management, support and maintenance of the serve – Ideal for those with the technical know-how and time to oversee a dedicated server.
It is worth noting that in both types of dedicated web hosting network security is still maintained by the service provider.
