For most individuals, web hosting does not have to be a complicated endeavor. You can choose cheap shared hosting if your needs are minimal, and VPS hosting if you’re running a small business. These options give you what you need with no need for any specialized knowledge or skills. The hosting service will do it all for you.
However, there are times when you will need (or covet) a dedicated server for your hosting needs. Be advised that, if you have no technical skills, this is not a good option for you. If you do have the capabilities, here are 3 reasons to buy a dedicated server.
1. Your business is big
For most SMEs, VPS hosting is good enough. Even at your busiest, you’re not expecting an overload of visitors. However, if you’re running (or working for) a big business or corporation, a dedicated server is certainly necessary. Millions of visitors will put a strain on anything less, and the last thing you want is your website to crash when opportunity strikes.
Furthermore, if your website is going to be handling any sort of process (beyond simply providing information), a shared server will not stand up to the test. Your website needs to be fast, in addition to simple reliability, as delays can cause people to get frustrated and give up.
If you are running a big business but don’t have the technical skills required for a dedicated server, you should consider hiring someone who is fit for the job.
2. You want more control
One of the biggest problems people have with shared hosting is that they have very little control. If something goes wrong, they have to report it to the hosting provider and wait until the provider gets it fixed. Good providers are very communicative and won’t make you wait too long, but it can still be very frustrating. This is especially true if you have the technical skills to deal with the issue yourself.
If you have these skills and want more control, you may be tempted to buy a dedicated server even if you don’t have a big business. The costs are prohibitive for most individuals and small business owners, but if this isn’t a problem for you, go for it.
3. Security is a major concern
Another reason you may choose to buy a dedicated server is if your website controls sensitive processes and information. Shared hosting can certainly be secure, but if you are dealing with major secrets, you need to go the extra mile. With a dedicated server, you are not automatically more secure. However, you do have control over the security measures you take.
As long as you have the resources to keep your server protected, having a dedicated server will give you the peace of mind necessary when working with highly confidential information. These resources don’t need to be of your own making – you can hire security experts to take care of things for you. A dedicated server makes this possible.