While the term dedicated hosting is rather generic, each server is typically built to serve a specific purpose. Because of this, they are distinct types of dedicated hosting services.
Some examples of the types of dedicated server hosting include website servers, application servers, and game servers. The actual differences in rented servers are the choice of hardware and how it is configured.
Different Types of Dedicated Servers
Web Servers
Servers that allow you to serve web pages to visitors over the internet are known as web servers. These are set up to wait and listen for requests. When a request is made, the web server will process it and send the required information over.
Email Servers
Larger organizations that handle huge volumes of email may want to set up dedicated email servers. These are specifically designed to handle online messages and offer their users a high degree of autonomy and security on an organization-wide basis.
Web Application Servers
Web applications are run on dedicated servers to serve remote users. In some ways, they behave similarly to web servers. The difference is that web applications typically need to fill more prerequisites and consume a larger amount of resources.
Database servers
In a few unique cases, users may need a dedicated server to handle data processing only. In these scenarios, dedicated machines are known as database servers. They are perfect for handling big data sets and multiple requests concurrently.
Game Servers
If you have ever played online games before, you are probably well-aware of game servers. Similar to application servers, these require a large amount of resources to handle the heavy workload when serving multiple game streams.
Pros and Cons of Various Server Types
Technically you can use any dedicated server for any purpose. However, doing so may result in less than optimal performance. Each type of dedicated server should be specifically deployed and configured for a purpose.
As an example of this, web servers typically are less resource-heavy. Using a web server as a game server will likely result in low performance for users.
Types of Dedicated Servers at ScalaHosting
ScalaHosting offers various dedicated server hosting plans. While not custom-built, these packages offer generous amounts of resources allocated to the user. This type of dedicated server remains the most flexible option for most.
Still, ScalaHosting allows you to configure the servers to fit your exact needs. This way, even if you need an email or gaming machine, you have the freedom to modify your platform to perfection.
Choosing Your Dedicated Server
Once you’ve decided on the purpose, you want the dedicated server for, the next step is choosing the right package. Look past the marketing language and focus on the resources provided with each package. At the minimum, ensure they meet the prerequisites needed to deploy your applications of choice.
Other key things to consider include scalability, security, level of support, and, naturally – the price tag.
When Should We Choose Which, and Why?
The key difference between the two dedicated server packages at ScalaHosting lies in the storage configuration. In most standard use cases, the basic dedicated server package will be sufficient.
The more advanced package comes with quadruple RAID-configured storage, allowing the smooth processing of resource-intensive operations. One good use of this would be a dedicated database server or web application server with heavier workloads.
Performance, Security, and Support
Each dedicated server at ScalaHosting comes with your choice of Operating System (OS). Aside from that, you will need to set up the environment you need. Keep in mind that Scala offers free security hardening with all dedicated server plans. This includes a firewall, security configurations, other protection utilities, and more.
At the same time, support is also readily available if you need other forms of assistance. In these cases, get in touch with the friendly support team, and they will happily provide advice and timely assistance in issue resolution.
Specific Things We Need to Know
Managing a dedicated server isn’t really an easy task for the casual user. It takes a certain level of technical competence to deploy and operate any type of dedicated server. At the very least, the user has to be familiar with things like server configuration, management, security, and maintenance.
Each type of dedicated server also comes with its specific requirements. For example, dedicated database servers may require you to have not only experience in the related field but also awareness of different legislation related to handling some data types.
Conclusion
Skills aside, the basic cost for almost all dedicated servers can be quite significant. In addition, other fees are often involved when it comes to specific licensing, such as rights of use to run servers for certain games or control panel licenses.
That’s why it’s so important to outline your needs and the scope of the project before you choose any type of dedicated server.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a dedicated hosting service?
A: Dedicated hosting is a physical server meant to serve a single user. It can be set up exactly the client wants it and customized to best fit their needs. The server owner can restrict access to all other parties as they see fit.
Q: How does dedicated server hosting work?
A: Handling a dedicated server is similar to owning your own PC. You are responsible for the deployment and maintenance of all the applications, as well as any future software updates when necessary.
Q: What is better – Dedicated servers or Cloud hosting?
A: Dedicated server hosting offers the potential for much higher levels of security and performance. Cloud hosting, on the other hand, can be much more scalable since resources are stretched across entire infrastructure networks.
Q: How much does a dedicated server hosting cost?
A: The cost of a dedicated server depends on a few elements. First, you have the hardware composition. Then, you have to consider any potential licensing fees. Finally, there is the choice between unmanaged and managed dedicated servers, with the latter increasing your final costs.
That being said, many reputable providers offer powerful and well-optimized solutions around $100-200 per month.
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