Recently we got a question from a customer asking our opinion about getting a dedicated server. Here is a part of his email…
Why should I get a dedicated server when…
- I have to monitor the server myself
- I have to fix any problems with the dedicated server
- I have to make sure that the server has the latest security patches
I can get a fully monitored, always patched, good web hosting account for $10-$20. So why?
His web host was constantly shutting down his scripts and he asked us for a solution. I recommended he get a dedicated server or a VPS instead of a shared server. Hence the above question.
At first glance getting a dedicated server is a bad idea. It costs more and requires a lot more attention. But a dedicated server also gives you complete freedom to run the scripts you need and offer the solutions you want without worrying about using up the shared resources.
Another advantage of a dedicated server is that others don’t have access to the server. On a shared server the probability of your account being compromised is high if some one else has a bad script. Yes, you do have to make sure that the dedicated server is fully secured. But there will be only a few people with access to your server and you can keep things in control.
Also, on dedicated servers you can install only the stuff you want and nothing else. For example, our main server doesn’t run DNS, mail server and a lot of other things that are found on normal shared servers. This makes things simpler.
You do need to monitor your server and apply the latest patches. There are companies that offer this service at competitive rates. Many hosting companies also offer fully managed dedicated servers. So it is possible to get a decent dedicated server setup for under $150 a month. If you don’t have that budget you could also consider the cheaper Virtual Private Servers (VPS).
If your website is made of mostly static files, a shared server is all you need. However, if you wish to install complicated scripts and do more with your server, a dedicated server is a much better choice.
