Don't Forget Dedicated Hosting

If you're looking for flexible hosting for your business , then there are a lot of cool, modern options to look into such as cloud computing and virtualisation. However don't forget to think about the other, slightly more old fashioned options - namely dedicated hosting.



Dedicated hosting is the title given to a hosting solution where a customer has hired the use of server(s) for their company alone. Dedicated hosting is a great option for many businesses who need to maintain a secure solution, locked down to just their own use. For example, for ecommerce providers or for mission critical applications where they require their site to not only be secure but continually available as they either generate revenue through it or their reputation depends on it. However a dedicated environment isn't as flexible which could lead to empty server space being paid for every month which is only used a fraction of the time.




Another newer type of hosting emerging is cloud hosting, based on a huge shared infrastructure complied of multiple servers where customers buy 'chunks' or computing resource as and when they need it on a pay as you go basis. Cloud hosting is a cheaper option to dedicated hosting plus it's also more flexible and scalable. However as a shared infrastructure it's less secure or reliable than a dedicated environment. Cloud hosting is ideal for companies who experience bursts in traffic and/or test and development environments which don't need to have high availability.

The good part about having a dedicated server is that, if something goes wrong, it's quickly and easily fixed. If you go with a decent and reputable company, you also don't have to worry about having expert, round the clock help that will ensure your website stays online and operational. Better still, you'll have the flexibility you need to keep your site running when traffic starts to come in leaps and bounds.



Quite a popular answer materialising is a hybrid solution where you still have a dedicated hosting environment but then perhaps tap into cloud hosting for bursts in traffic or storage to help maintain flexibility and ending in a more cost effective solution. However it's a complicated business and so you should always consult a professional before you make your hosting decision - and that way you can be sure of getting the right service, and spending the right amount of cash, on your next successful business venture.