How to choose the right dedicated hosting provider?

As the name suggests, dedicated hosting is a hosting package that devotes one server to one user.  This is different to shared hosting, where many user accounts are run from one computer server.  There are many advantages to dedicated hosting, although it has its drawbacks as well.  This article will give you an overview, so that you can decide if dedicated hosting is the right solution for you.

What are dedicated servers?

Generally speaking, dedicated servers are faster and can handle more data and traffic, and they come with more advanced control panel software.  The main drawback is that you pay a premium for this level of service - dedicated server hosting packages are significantly more expensive than shared hosting options.  Nevertheless, if your business relies on a fast, stable and flexible online presence, then dedicated hosting is something you need to consider very seriously indeed.

There are a number of things you should look at before you make your choice.  First of all, is the dedicated hosting package managed or unmanaged?  An unmanaged package is one where you get the hardware, software and operating system and nothing else.  All of the technical, maintenance and administrative requirements are down to you.  If this is something you can handle, then you may find the unmanaged option is cheaper.  If not, then it will be worth the extra money to go for a managed dedicated host.  With this type of package, the hosting company takes care of all of the back office support functions.  They're on hand to look after the server and keep it running, twenty four hours a day.

Most webmasters want their site to load quickly, so speed is always going to be a concern.  Check out the dedicated host's RAM, processor and bandwidth capabilities.  Remember, your website will grow, so think about the sort of requirements you might need a few months down the line.  In the same way, make sure that the server has adequate disk space for your requirements, now and in the future.  Does the package allow you to upgrade if you need to?

Security and flexibility are also crucial things to consider.  Your website is vulnerable to attack the moment it appears on the web, so you need to be absolutely sure that your dedicated server can resist those attacks.  If you're paying for a dedicated server, you also need to know that you can customize it to meet your exact requirements.

It's also worth checking out the sort of operating systems that the server will support.  Ideally, you want a dedicated server that can run both Windows and UNIX operating systems - Windows for ease and familiarity of use, and UNIX for serious technical development.

Finally, it should go without saying that you need to look at the dedicated web host's track record with its customers.  Ask to see testimonials, and check out review sites and discussion forums.  The opinions and experiences of ex-customers can be just as revealing as those of existing customers.
If your website requires a high level of service, then dedicated server hosting can serve you well.