5 Advantages of Managed VPS Servers
If your website is suffering from the limitations of shared hosting, it might be time to switch to a managed VPS cloud server. It delivers a tonne of powerful features, such as additional CPU cores, RAM, and storage space, ICSA-certified firewalls and free SSL certificates.
Still confused? The following guide answers your most frequently asked questions. Plus, we’ll share some of the incredible advantages of managed VPS servers for small and large businesses alike.
What is a managed VPS server?
First things first, what is a managed VPS server? VPS stands for “virtual private server” and does exactly what it says on the tin – provides businesses with an isolated environment that’s much more secure and reliable.
As you don’t have to share resources with other users, you’ll also benefit from enhanced speed and performance.
What are the different types of VPS hosting?
Diving deeper, VPS hosting can be split into three subcategories – managed, unmanaged and semi-managed.
Managed VPS hosting is the perfect option for businesses that lack the time or knowledge to run servers in-house. Instead, they outsource the hard work to a reliable third-party supplier. This team of experts oversee software installations, security patches and maintenance tasks, so you can rest assured that your website will always run optimally.
In contrast, unmanaged VPS hosting puts the responsibility on you. The service provider will handle software installations, but you’ll control everything else. It can be a cost-effective choice, and there is the potential for more customisation. However, you’ll definitely need experience with server management.
Semi-managed VPS hosting finds a middle ground. The service provider offers limited support with basic configuration issues, removing some of the load from your IT department.
When should you choose managed VPS hosting?
Generally, managed VPS hosting is the best option if you don’t have the time or expertise to manage servers in house. It’s also worth noting that packages are more expensive. As such, you must assess whether you have the budget to invest or whether your money would be better spent elsewhere.
For example, smaller businesses with basic server requirements could probably start with an unmanaged VPS and then switch over once there’s demand. Scalability is one of the many advantages, which we’ll explore in more detail below.
5 advantages of managed VPS servers
We might be biased, but you can’t beat managed VPS servers for their superior features. We like to break them down into the 5 Ss – straightforwardness, speed, security, scalability and support.
Straightforwardness
Perhaps most enticingly, managed VPS hosting is straightforward to use, especially for people with minimal technical skills. In fact, there’s very little you have to do at all besides communicate with your service provider. They’ll take care of everything from server maintenance to security so you can get on with running your business.
If you have an IT department, you could move the process in house. However, it depends on how much time you want to invest. Plus, third-party support teams are usually available around the clock, whereas your employees probably won’t appreciate urgent 2am tech calls!
Speed
Next, comes speed. Shared hosting divides resources between users, so you’ll be affected by someone else’s online activities to some extent. For instance, you might have trouble connecting to a Zoom call if next door is uploading a high-quality video.
On the other hand, VPS hosting offers dedicated CPU cores, memory and disk space, meaning you’ll benefit from smoother performance and higher speeds.
What does this mean for you? You’ll notice a leap in productivity as employees don’t have to battle against slow and outdated servers. Plus, the improved user experience will encourage repeat business and positive reviews.
Security
Managed VPS hosting is more secure on two fronts. First, your server admin will install the latest security features, including two-factor authentication, network segmentation and firewalls. Second, they’ll continuously monitor for cyber threats, so issues are resolved immediately.
With the above in mind, it’s easy to see why managed VPS hosting costs more than unmanaged or shared options. You’re effectively paying for an online bouncer.
Scalability
Although unmanaged VPS servers provide more scope for customisation, managed solutions still support scalability. You can downgrade or upgrade whenever you like with minimal fuss, so you’ll never be paying for features you don’t need.
It’s important to find a provider that can grow with you. Luckily, we offer sliding-scale deals starting from just £86.24 per year.
Even our most affordable package provides 1GB of web and email space, 4GB of backup space and one MySQL or MSSQL database. On the higher end, you’ll receive 20GB of web and email space, 80GB of backup space and 25 MySQL or MSSQL databases. Needless to say, there are plenty of options in between to suit every requirement and budget.
Support
Last but not least, managed VPS hosting comes with unparalleled customer support. A dedicated team of agents will always be on hand to answer your questions, and they’ll be doing plenty of work behind the scenes to streamline your online activities. This means you can sit back, relax and forget about your server (which is what every business owner wants).
What level of support can you expect from us? In our most recent survey, 82% of users rated the technical ability of the agent who handled their case as “excellent”, and 90% were happy with the time it took to respond.
Upgrade your systems with managed VPS servers
If you want to switch from an unmanaged or shared package, browse our VPS cloud server deals today. Although prices vary, every option prioritises reliability, performance and security.
Best of all, while we’ll manage the mundane maintenance tasks, you’ll still have ultimate control. You’ll keep admin access so you can customise your server exactly how you like, but we’ll be on hand to help with the fiddly bits.
Need help deciding which solution is right for you? Get in touch for some advice. Call 03330 347500 or email sales@nullswiftinter.net, and one of our team members will get back to you as soon as possible.