A virtual private server (VPS, also referred to as Virtual Dedicated Server or VDS) is a method of splitting a server. Each virtual server can run its own full-fledged operating system, and each server can be independently rebooted. A VPS is created by virtualization software which partitions a single physical server to form multiple servers within it. Each virtual server is completely independent of its neighbors and functions like an actual networked server. What makes VPS hosting so popular is that it provides control at a level similar to a dedicated server at a price not to far removed from affordable shared hosting .
The practice of partitioning a single server so that it appears as multiple servers has long been common practice in mainframe computers, but has seen a resurgence lately with the development of virtualization software and technologies for other architectures.
Virtual Server Web Hosting
Virtual private servers bridge the gap between shared web hosting services and dedicated hosting services, giving independence from other customers of the VPS service in software terms but at less cost than a physical dedicated server. As a VPS runs its own copy of its operating system, customers have superuser-level access to that operating system instance, and can install almost any software that runs on the OS.
Virtual Dedicated Hosting
A growing number of web hosting companies offer virtual private server hosting, or virtual dedicated server hosting as an extension for web hosting services. Some web hosting companies call a Virtual Private Server a Virtual Dedicated Server or Dynamic Dedicated Server.
VPS Features
The features of VPS hosting vary depending on the provider.
Root Access: Root access will grant you with complete control over your VPS account from configurations to software installations.
Management and Support: Similar to a dedicated hosting account, VPS hosting calls for you to manage your own server . However, there are many companies that provide support and management services to assist with administrative tasks.
Server Monitoring: A good VPS provider will actively monitor its network and hardware your account relies on.
Multiple Domain Hosting: Many VPS providers offer plans that allow you to host multiple websites without suffering performance issues. In most cases, you can set up separate email accounts and allocate specific resources for each individual site.
Managed Data Backups: VPS plan usually offer a way to backup your data.
VPS hosting offers an inexpensive way to get many of the features, resources, control and flexibility of a more costly and complex dedicated server. With the technology increasing in popular, prices are dropping rapidly, assuring that you can find a reliable VPS solution that meets your hosting needs.
Benefits of Virtual Dedicated Hosting (VPS)
Stability: Unlike shared hosting, the traffic and activities of other VPS customers will not adversely affect your operation.
Performance - Having your own allotment of resources allows you and your visitors to enjoy faster load times.
Dedicated Resources - VPS hosting provides you with more disk space, CPU and RAM.
Flexibility - You have the freedom to choose the operating system and software you want to install on the server.
Cheap – Compared to a dedicated server, virtual dedicated hosting using VPS is much cheaper. You can get a virtual dedicated server for a quarter of the price of a dedicated server. In growing economies like India and Brazil, lot of new business startups that need the performance and stability of a dedicated server and yet do not have the resources to go for one, opt for virtual dedicated server hosting using VPS.
VPS hosting is available on both WHM and cPanel.