Shared Hosting vs Dedicated Hosting

Let’s start with the basics: shared hosting and dedicated hosting. Neither system is right for everyone, so it pays to identify your needs and do your homework.

Shared Web Hosting

On this platform, one physical server is shared by a number of users who tap into the same resources. Everyone shares the cost of storage, bandwidth and other features. Web neighbors can’t access other accounts or websites, so the system is safe and secure. Its cost-effectiveness and ease of use make shared web hosting a popular choice. Even beginners can start using it almost immediately.

We'll set up your server and install the necessary software. All you have to do is upload your website or other web-based system. Using the simple control panel, you can create and manage your database, email account and other tools for doing business.

If at least one of these statements describes you, shared hosting may be an ideal solution:

Your business is small to mid-sized

Your traffic is limited to a few hundred monthly visitors

The content on your website is frequently updated

You have no earthly idea how to configure a server, install and upgrade software or perform technical maintenance

Why Choose Shared Hosting?

If you’re new to web hosting, a shared platform is great for learning the ropes. It’s perfectly adequate for businesses and websites that have light to moderate web traffic and don’t require complex, customized server configurations.

You could think of it like a large house shared by several roommates. Expenses for things like food, cleaning supplies and electricity are divided. If the fridge stops working, the kindly landlord lives right next door. The arrangement saves everyone money, and things work out nicely provided no one drinks directly from the milk carton.

Dedicated Web Hosting

With this option, you’re the sole user on the server. Its capacity and resources are all yours. This gives you much more control over its configuration and overall operating environment. There’s also a wider variety of services and software to choose from.

Not every business needs all the bells and whistles that dedicated hosting provides, but it might make sense under the following circumstances:

Your business is continually growing and adding products or services, so you need the control and flexibility to customize the server, choose your software and adapt the system to changing needs

Your website features a significant amount of video streaming and high-resolution photos

You want a unique IP address that you don’t have to share with other websites

Your business handles extremely sensitive transactions, so you require enhanced security features

What Else Should You Know About Dedicated Hosting?

Understandably, having a dedicated server all to yourself costs more than shared hosting. After all, there are more features and resources to choose from. Unless you have very good technical skills or strong tech support in your company, you’ll probably need a package that includes building and maintaining the equipment.

These additional features come at a price, but they’re worth it for clients who need complete control of the operating environment and a little extra security.