Welcome to our web site, a guide to the wonderful world of dedicated servers with advice on how to get one and also on how to use one properly.
What is a Dedicated Server?
A dedicated server is a hosting service where an organisation or individual pays to rent out an entire server for their website. Dedicated servers are physical servers located in the service providers data centre, with a single server dedicated to the needs of a single client.
This means that the client has complete control over the server and how it uses. There is no sharing like with shared hosting, so each client decides on every aspect of their server, from the operating system to applications used.
The performance of a dedicate server provides a website with better speed, security, and uptime, making it a very worthwhile investment for businesses with high-traffic websites. Furthermore, the flexibility and enhance security gained from using a dedicate server makes it an equally attractive prospect for website owners.
What to Look for When Hiring a Dedicating Server
Every website has their own needs when it comes to a dedicated server. For example, a large company running a busy website will not need the same degree of service that a small, locally based website need.
So, it helps to know what to look for in a dedicated server to ensure you get a service that best meets your requirements. This includes:
Processer
The processer of a dedicate server impacts what the website can do. For instance, a powerful processer with several cores is recommended for video-transcoding, SQL, virtualisation etc., so the more applications your website uses the more powerful a processor you will require.
A single processor may be suitable for a low traffic website however, so always determine this to ensure you don’t overpay for more processing power than the server requires. Dual processers offer ample power for websites with medium and high traffic with modest web and database applications.
Operating System
When using a dedicated sever, website owners have complete control over the operating system to use for the server. Different operating systems are suitable for different businesses, so make sure you consider what operating system works best for you.
Windows and Linux are the two main options for operating systems on a dedicated server. Both have their merits, with some preferring the power and flexibility of Windows, while Linux is renowned for it’s speed, security and overall reliable performance.
Prices aren’t that different, so it mostly comes down to what you are familiar with, what’s compatible with the applications and operations of the website, how easy it is to customise, and the resources needed to run it (e.g. RAM, processer, storage).
Bandwidth
The bandwidth needed for a dedicated server depends on website traffic. Be sure to determine this and then choose a suitable amount of bandwidth to cover it. Websites running scripts, streaming media files, and using HD images should always go for a dedicated server with high bandwidth.
Memory
The memory of the dedicated server determines the overall speed of the website. So, the more memory, the faster the website will load. Memory is measured in RAM, and certain applications and operating systems require more RAM than others, so be sure to consider things like the operating system, control panel, and website traffic when establishing the amount of RAM needed.
Technical Support
When hiring a dedicated server, the provider always offers a range of technical support for clients, so be sure to look for premium technical support whenever possible.
For example, having round the clock support is always vital should anything go wrong, but it won’t be much use if the support staff aren’t familiar with your business and requirements. Always inquire about the degree of technical support offered, looking for things like 24/7 dedicated support, server management and monitoring etc.