2009年3月12日星期四

Colocation vs. Dedicated and Managed Hosting

Colocation vs. Dedicated and Managed Hosting

If shared hosting can no longer keep up with your growing demands, rest assured that there are other alternatives that will suit those needs.  Three of the most practical solutions are colocation, dedicated and managed hosting.  Both refer to arrangements where you have your own server instead of sharing one with other customers.  Which is right for you?  This article will help you make a determination.
What is Colocation?
Often referred to as server colocation, colocation hosting refers to a situation where you store your server hardware in a hosting provider's data center.  This type of arrangement requires that you actually purchase your own hardware.  The host provides you with space as well as other services that typically include an internet connection, redundant power sources and physical security.  Colocation is ideal for someone who requires more flexibility yet doesn't have the resources to maintain their own server.  It is also best suited for those who are knowledgeable of server administration as these tasks are generally not performed by the host.
What is Dedicated Hosting?
Dedicated hosting describes an arrangement where you lease a server from a web hosting company.  Just like colocation, you generally get an internet connection, physical security and all the protective features that come along with the provider's data center.  With dedicated hosting, you are granted with complete control over your hosting environment.  You can modify server settings, install your own operating systems and other software components.  Because you are not sharing critical resources with other domain owners, dedicated hosting offers enhanced performance with increased uptime.  With more speed and tighter security, this type of hosting is well suited for businesses that perform mission-critical operations and experience large volumes of traffic.
What is Managed Hosting?
In general, managed hosting refers to the management of a dedicated server.  The average dedicated server package only gets you an operating system, internet connection and the actual server which is maintained in the provider's data facility.  In its purest form, a dedicated server calls for you to perform all the complex administrative tasks.  This includes installing software technologies, security mechanisms and performing general maintenance.  Managed hosting alleviate you from these tasks are they are handled by the provider.  You generally have the option of selecting the services you want to be managed by the web host.  Managed hosting is pretty much what it sounds like, outsourcing the management tasks of your dedicated server to another company.  This type of hosting is geared toward businesses who either lack administrative skills or simply do not have the time to maintain a server.
Conclusion
Each type of hosting mentioned in this article has its advantages and disadvantages.  Since colocation calls for you to purchase your own server, the initial investment is much higher.  On the other hand, leasing a dedicated server is far more expensive over the long run.  Because of the additional services involved, managed hosting is the most costly solution of them all.  As you can see, these services are quite similar yet very distinct.  The right decision for you ultimately depends on what you have to invest as well your level of IT experience.




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