what is a dedicated server

If you’re a new site owner, then it’s likely you’ve opted for shared hosting when it came to launch time. Although shared hosting is the cheaper option, it’s important to understand the different hosting options and knowing when it’s time to upgrade to something better.

There are many reasons to upgrade to a dedicated server. Maybe you’re seeing a substantial rise in traffic or business growth. If this sounds like a situation you’re in, then it’s likely you’ll need to upgrade to a dedicated server.

Dedicated servers are perfect for business growth because they’re designed with enhanced security features and better page loading times. This article will explain what dedicated servers are so you can determine which plan is the right fit for you.

What is a Dedicated Server?

Dedicated server hosting means that your website has its own server. It provides full-control over your site and the flexibility to tailor it to fit your needs. Although in theory it sounds great, it does come at a price; typically an expensive one. That’s why it’s important to understand what you’re getting with a dedicated server and do your research to see if this listing plan is the right fir for you and your business.

When most people start out on a website, their business might be small. It makes sense to start off with a shared hosting plan, but let’s say business booms, then you have a couple of options to upgrade to like a virtual private server (VPS), or a dedicated one. Whichever one you choose is up to you. Just make sure you do your research before you buy one.

What Separates a Dedicated Server from Other Hosting Types?

A shared server stores your site on a server with other people’s sites. That could be potentially hundreds of other sites yours is lumped in with. This is okay for people that own personal blogs or small businesses, but in terms of performance, a shared server limits what you can do with your site.

A VPS separates your site from others and since your site is blocked off from other users, site performance is likely to be optimal. A VPS also provides flexibility when it comes to configuration. For those looking to upgrade their site, plans like these offer a good middle ground because it provides speed and a cheaper price compared to dedicated hosting.

Though, you do need to be prepared to spend some money. Some plans can run up to three-figures per month, but the positive is that you gain the most value from the plan.

Along with cloud hosting, dedicated hosting is one of the most powerful plans you can purchase because they are designed for better performance and security. These types of plans are perfect for people that are seeing an increase in traffic because of website growth, those needing better security, people needing optimal page loading times, and those wanting control over their server.

Do I Need a Dedicated Server?

It’s important to consider a dedicated server as an option the moment you’re experiencing a significant increase in site traffic. If that’s the case, your upgrade options will be a VPS, cloud hosting, or dedicated hosting.

All of these options offer larger bandwidths and faster page loading times. What separates dedicated hosting apart from the other plans is that it offers optimal security and complete control over how your server runs and operates.

If you’re interested in upgrading your site, you need to take into account the unique needs of your site especially when it comes to budget. Only consider this as an option if you can afford it or if it’s an absolute business must. You may even consider a fully managed dedicated server if you require technical expertise and help to manage your server, or if don’t have the time to do so yourself.

Get started today 

If you’re considering upgrading your current hosting plan and are interested in a dedicated server, then it’s important to consider which brand you’d want to buy from. GoDaddy’s dedicated server plan and Gen 4 VPS are hosting solutions that provide the best performance, flexibility, and control.

Frequently asked questions

What is a dedicated server?

A dedicated server is a hosting option that provides you with optimal performance for all your applications as it allows the owner complete access to the server and its resources. It gives the owner full-control because it allows you to tailor it to fit your business, add more security, add new software, and change configurations if you need it.

What is Self-Managed Dedicated Server Hosting?

A Self-Managed Dedicated Server provides users more flexibility where they can install or run their own software, operating system, or applications that provides more freedom and control over their site. It also allows you to create updates whenever you want to.

Are IPs included with Dedicated Server Hosting?

Dedicated Hosting through GoDaddy includes a single, free dedicated IP address to use for things like: custom applications, staging sites, email, and other administrative tasks.
 
If you run any custom software on your server, then you’d probably need a dedicated IP address. Some types of server software require a dedicated IP in order for it to work. A dedicated IP address allows you to have control panel management so you can separate your sites and control panel onto two different IP addresses for security purposes and to isolate services.
 
A dedicated IP address also ensures your emails get delivered to the right people versus a domain-based email that runs the potential risk of delivering to the wrong people or not delivering at all. If have a shared an IP address with your email and have other users on that same IP address, then you run a big risk of getting that IP blocked or blacklisted.

How does Dedicated Server Hosting work?

When purchase a dedicated server, it essentially gets leased to you and you have full-access to manage it however you’d like. It’s custom-configured to your application like a website, web hosting, database, and gaming and video streaming.
 
It can also scale to your business meaning if your business is growing, you can add to those applications if you need to.  

Is Dedicated Server Hosting for me?

Dedicated Server hosting is for people that have the skill-set and knowledge to manage their hosting environment. It provides the most control over your hosting environment so it’s perfect for people looking to level-up their applications. 

Can Dedicated Server Hosting be used on any website?

Normally yes, but is better utilized if it’s running on a mission-critical site that has high traffic or that uses intensive resource applications.

How soon are servers ready?

Provisioning an account can take minutes, but could take up to 24 hours or more to complete in some cases. For more information, please visit our Help Center.

Leave a Reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.