Put simply, a server is a network program or device which manages the network resources. Servers can be shared, where they contain and regulate the resources for multiple clients, or they can be dedicated, where they serve only one client. This article will look at the benefits of using a dedicated server as opposed to a shared server.
There are many kinds of servers that perform different jobs, and a company can use multiple servers in conjunction. Here are some popular examples of servers and their uses:
- File Sharing Servers: These servers secure and manage the availability of stored files, giving access to network users to send and receive files.
- Mail Severs: The mail rooms of the internet, mail servers send, receive and store email.
- Application Servers: These servers are used to reduce the stress on other servers by running single resource-intensive software for the entire network.
- Database Server: Stores databases and manages network inquiries.
Here are 5 reasons you should invest in dedicated servers:
Enhanced Security
Any number of hosting features means nothing if your servers aren’t secure. The truth is there could be unreliable websites on your network when using a shared server. On the other hand, dedicated servers can only be accessed by the company using the server (you) and the company running the server.
Dedicated hosting allows you to customize your security approach, while with shared hosting you are limited to company-specific regulations which may not fall in line with yours. Dedicated servers are also more likely to be more PCI compliant, meaning they follow information security standards.
Full Access to Resources
Most server providers will say they offer “unlimited” resources, namely bandwidth and disc space. It’s important to note that while all these claims are untrue, and there is no such thing as “unlimited” resources when it comes to server potential, shared servers can and do share ALL a server’s resources with the whole network. That means if another person’s website uses a lot of resources it can affect your website’s resource pool, which impacts performance.
Dedicated servers offer a range of available resources for you needs and, are only accessible by your network, increasing performance.
Superior Reliability
Servers can act up for a lot of reasons, but a server going down can be a disaster. It’s good to hedge your bets by choosing the most reliable server you can. Since dedicated servers don’t share resources, they are much less likely to become overwhelmed and malfunction.
If your website expects high traffic and uses resource heavy media like videos or music, you will need the reliability of a dedicated server.
Rent or Buy
Dedicated servers offer the convenient option of either renting or buying. Both options provide pros and cons, but it’s good to have the choice depending on your needs.
Servers are delicate instruments which require their own housing and technical team to operate and maintain. Renting the server means all these details are worked out for you, and that you have tech support for easy access. Buying a server is a financial and technical responsibility but allows for the most security and control over your information processes.
Full Control
This has been mentioned so far, but it’s very important. It refers to the control over the security of your website using your preferred software and by having sole access to the server. It also refers to the control you have over other software and settings, as well as giving you root access.
When choosing the right server for you, consider your needs above the price tag. You may save money with shared servers, but is that really worth it? A secure, reliable and customizable server is priceless and will make your business’s online experience a smooth one.
