VPS vs Shared Hosting: Which Is Right for Your Website?

Properly configuring your company network is essential when it comes to maximising productivity and minimising security risks. Part of this obligation includes choosing the right web hosting option.

Entrepreneurs typically choose between a virtual private server (VPS) and shared hosting. Both have their benefits and drawbacks, and it’s important to understand what they can offer your company.

Let’s explore everything you need to know about VPS vs shared hosting for your business.

VPS Hosting

As the name suggests, virtual private server hosting allows your business to essentially operate in its own instance. This is achieved by creating a simulated environment that functions as its own machine.

Essentially, you are creating a virtual workspace that other users outside of your organisation are not able to access.

Although it might seem complicated, setting up the server is relatively straightforward. You simply need to install the required software and adjust your settings as needed.

Let’s explore some of the pros and cons of this type of hosting.

Pros

Perhaps the most outstanding attribute of a VPS server is its security. It should come as no surprise that a virtual environment that nobody else can access is more secure than a shared space.

In fact, it’s not uncommon for one user’s actions on a shared server to negatively affect everyone else that uses that server.

This simulated virtual environment comes with another major benefit. In the event that a virus or malware compromises the integrity of your server space, you can simply erase the instance.

A VPS exists in its own ecosystem, something that prevents a malicious program from traversing disk space. This means that you can easily prevent catastrophic consequences that could occur on a shared server.

Since other users don’t have access to your server resources, you will also experience better performance. This is particularly true for businesses that require a large amount of RAM or CPU power.

Even a handful of other users that make use of these resources could prevent you from reaching optimum efficiency.

Finally, it’s worth noting that you’re in complete charge of the server. You can add or remove any software that you would like, and you can configure your settings to fit your needs.

Cons

Although it offers plenty of utility, a VPS is not without its drawbacks.

Since you’re in charge of everything that goes on in this virtual environment, you’ll need to consistently update your security software. The same can be said about applications that you use on a regular basis.

Otherwise, you’ll be putting your company at risk. Since the cybercrime industry is projected to be worth more than ever before by 2025, focusing on security is critical.

Additionally, working with a VPS is often a difficult task for those who don’t have experience as a system administrator.

Shared Web Hosting

In contrast to VPS hosting, shared hosting is a method that allows multiple users to leverage the same server resources. If you aren’t quite sure what type of hosting option you currently use, chances are that you are working with a shared server.

The resources that other users will have access to include RAM, CPU, and disk space. Listed below are key attributes you need to keep in mind about shared web hosting.

Pros

Since you share resources with others, you won’t have to pay as much money per month for this type of service. In fact, you won’t be responsible for much at all.

To clarify, setting up and using a shared server is a refreshingly simple process.

If you own a relatively small business that doesn’t have a substantial budget, shared hosting is likely the option for you. The same can be said about entrepreneurs who do not have the knowledge or time to worry about configuring a server themselves.

Another party will also be responsible for upgrades, managing downtime, and maintenance. This means that you will have more time to focus on your core responsibilities.

When choosing shared hosting, it’s imperative to work with a provider that offers stellar ongoing support.

There’s a strong chance that you will have questions or concerns after you begin using a shared server. Being unable to get in touch with somebody and come up with a solution can turn a small issue into a much bigger problem.

Cons

As you might guess, it’s not uncommon to experience resource shortages in some circumstances. Unfortunately, these may happen at highly inopportune moments.

For instance, you may be in the middle of a final sprint to finish the development of an application before a deadline. Or, you might be attempting to showcase your website to a potential client.

Regardless of the situation, not having the required RAM or CPU power can be highly detrimental.

As previously mentioned, a single user could also cause problems for others on a shared server. In extreme cases, every business that actively uses the server could experience a data breach.

VPS vs Shared Hosting: Which Is Best for You?

The answer to the question above will depend on the needs of your company.

For those who have highly sensitive data, VPS hosting is ideal. Smaller businesses that would like to save money and don’t mind sharing resources could opt for shared hosting instead.

As long as you fully understand the differences between VPS vs shared hosting, you’ll be able to make the right decision.

Want to learn more about what we have to offer? Feel free to get in touch with us today and see how we can help.