What Is A Virtual Private Server?

A virtual Private Server has now become so popular in the IT world that it cannot be matched by any other technology, period. Its benefits exceed expectations, while a few cons which are present are negligible. But even though it is very popular and people know that it is popular as well, most of them don’t really know, what it is. This creates confusion in whether it is suitable for them or is it usable under certain circumstances? Let’s clear a few misconceptions and find out what a Virtual Private Server actually is.

Simply put, it is a virtual machine which is self dedicated and has its very own Operating System and other major resources. It also gives the user super control over its OS where the user can install any software supported on it. It is, basically, web hosting, only one which has a disc space and bandwidth in and of itself.

Yet, it is different from dedicated hosting as it also has features of shared hosting side by side. What I mean is that the physical server you would find inside a data centre is used specifically for VPS hosting. It is the main server which further divides into a number of spaces that create their own virtual server. This can then be used by a user or an ‘account holder’ who is now in control of his own personal virtual environment and can use it as a dedicated server similarly.

To keep it short, it is a server which acts like a dedicated one, but is part of a main physical mainframe which is closer to shared hosting. This creates a link between the two and provides maximum exposure and benefits to the user directly.

But now our mind raises the question; when to use it? WHO uses it? Basically, for the people who need more control, this is it. It would give you a great advantage over shared servers in a cheap price. It gives the user unimaginable control over his private environment. Sometimes, these people may not need the extra resources that are provided with vps, they might come in handy. Moreover, the increased control is worth the extra price.

It is also great for people new to hosting. You see, it is not complicated at all. It provides an easy start to the way a person would use dedicated hosting, only simpler. Therefore, if a person thinks he might not be ready for a dedicated one yet, a VPS would be perfect for him. This is more like a starter package which teaches you the basics and gives you a lot of experience in the field, without spending a lot of money either.

Imagine a giant machine that is glowing with a magnificent yellow light from within. Imagine it transferring that light to different ‘guests’ sitting in front. This whole idea is basically VPS. The giant machine is the physical server, the light is the resources and the guests are the different operating systems controlled by users or basically, us.