Choosing a Dedicated Server

Dedicated hosting provides web server hardware for each customer application. A dedicated solution automatically provides a way to physically outsource web sites and to offer independent service levels to each customer. Any service interruptions, whether due to system failure, maintenance, web site data or programming, affect only the individual customer. A dedicated server is a viable alternative to the capital intensive prospect of purchasing your own powerful and scalable server, and any additional necessary software. The expense can seem extreme to any fledgling company planning for growth and expansion. With a dedicated server solution, the service provider owns the hardware, leases/rents you the license for the operating system [ie. UNIX/NT] and provides both real estate and bandwidth. This solution can be purchased for a lump sum monthly fee or a customized cycled payment option may be provided.

Advantages of a Dedicated Server
Primarily, a dedicated server is far more scalable than a co-located server. Upgrades can occur in less than 24 hours of submission of your work order, which can greatly affect the way that you do business. It also saves you money on hardware and software costs. Upgrading your machine[s] or adding a new server is easier and more cost effective with dedicated servers. If you have a dedicated server, you simply pay the difference between the present system package and the new system package, for the startup and the monthly fee. Generally, the level of service in a dedicated facility is better than a co-location facility. Having a dedicated server also provides you with 24/7/365 monitoring and a generator power backup. If your server goes down in the middle of the night, you know that the problem will be addressed. This is not to say that you cannot receive this level of service in a co-location facility. The difference is that co-location facilities charge a substantial fee for many services which are standard with a dedicated server solution.

Disadvantages of a Dedicated Server
The most significant disadvantage to dedicated hosting is the entry-level cost to support a customer. Each site must be designated to a server and to disk resources. The re-allocation of system resources requires ongoing administration and the balancing of individual customer needs. Redundant system components may have to be allocated to each customer, whether or not they will be used. This means that additional, more sophisticated services may not be offered because they are not cost effective for the average individual customer.