Dedicated Server Hosting: Should I Choose a Managed Server?
Dedicated Server hosting in simple terms is the process of a computer with a node designed to operate as a server that hosts your web site files. The server loads up the files and images to all users accessing your domain name, if set up as a web file server. Different dedicated server plans exist, ranging from shared hosting servers to semi-dedicated and dedicated servers. Virtual Dedicated Servers come in two flavors: managed and unmanaged servers.
These servers come controlled by the service providing the server. As with all dedicated servers, you are provided administrative control, however a managed server has the added benefit of the Operating system patches being applied for you. This ensures all patches are installed in a timely manner. The assisted services will also handle initial web server setup, virus scans, and emergency services. If you are not familiar with linux servers and the methods to apply patches and troubleshoot issues like disk space problems, then this choice is an optimal solution for you. When researching these servers, they can also also be called an assisted service plan.
Unmanaged Dedicated Servers
Unlike the dedicated servers where it is all managed for you, these are completely controlled by you. If you have an issue with your server, you will have to troubleshoot problems. Many dedicated hosting services do still offer support with unmanaged dedicated hosting. Support is required for hardware failures and other network problems within the data centre. After all, you can connect to the server, but you do not have physical access to the server, so you cannot troubleshoot hardware issues.
The purchaser’s knowledge of server configuration will help pick if a managed or unmanaged server option is required. Many dedicated hosting plans exist with different price points, but knowing if its managed dedicated server hosting or an unmanaged dedicated server will help you determine if that price warrants the service being provided. As with all purchases made, the higher the price directly relates to the value of the server purchased, but not always.