What is a VPS? Explanation and How to Choose a VPS in 2022

What is a VPS? Explanation and How to Choose a VPS – When you create a website, you will be faced with many choices of hosting packages. This of course makes you confused about which hosting package to choose.

Moreover, each hosting has different features and advantages. One of the available hosting package options is a Virtual Private Server or VPS.

But, what is a VPS? And what are its functions for the website?

Well, this time we will discuss thoroughly VPS. Starting from understanding, functions, to tips on choosing a VPS. That way, you will not choose the wrong hosting package and can maximize its use. So, read this article to the end, OK!

What is a VPS?

VPS is a virtual server that serves to store data and files on websites. Usually, VPS is used on websites that require large resources. Because users do not need to share resources with other websites as is the case with shared hosting.

This is because VPS uses virtualization technology which divides the physical server into several different resources. With private resources, the website performance of this server user will not be affected by other users.

If you want to liken it, a VPS server is an apartment building. In one building, there are apartment units with their facilities. Starting from the rooms, furniture, to electronic devices in each unit. One unit and another does not interfere with each other, let alone fight over facilities.

This is what makes VPS a suitable server for SaaS providers, programming, and game developers, to companies that need servers with large, secure, and affordable capacities.

Moreover, there are many other advantages of VPS hosting, namely:

• More flexibility in determining the type of control panel used.
• Get more bandwidth and storage than using shared hosting.
• Can determine the operating system used according to the needs of the website.
• Have the freedom to change the hosting settings used.

What is the function of a VPS?

After knowing what a VPS is, you also need to know the various functions of a VPS. Here is the explanation.

1. Web Hosting

One of the functions of a VPS is as a web hosting or a place to store website data and files.

VPS provides suitable resources for high-traffic websites. The resources in question can be said to be fitting. Not too big to have to use a dedicated server, but also not small like shared hosting.

Apart from its resources, VPS offers a variety of additional tools and frameworks that you can install. For Example, Ruby on Rails, Flask, Django, and others. These tools and frameworks certainly help you add features and maximize the website you create.

You can get all the advantages of this VPS at a relatively cheap price. Especially when compared to other types of services such as cloud hosting or dedicated servers.

2. Game Servers

VPS can also function as a game server. Through this private server, you are free to do various things related to online games, for example:

• Installing games and holding online gaming sessions according to your own rules;
• Make a special connection to play games so as not to lag;
• Avoid third party interference to ensure privacy;
• Gain root access to manage game servers as needed.

However, to use a VPS as a game server, you also need to pay attention to some technical aspects. For example, the VPS service you choose must have a fast processor, sufficient storage, and large enough resources.

3. VPS as a VPN Service

VPN is a private network connected to the internet. Through this network, you can hide your identity when accessing the internet. VPNs are also used to restrict the access of people to certain internet networks.

That’s why VPNs are widely used by companies or organizations. The goal is that the process of storing and exchanging data becomes more secure. That way, sensitive company data can’t be seen by other users who don’t have access to the VPN.

Although there are many free and paid VPN services, creating a VPN on your own VPS server can be a safer option. Because you alone manage and store the data. Unlike third-party VPNs, which even though they are secure, there is still the possibility of data leaking to other parties.

4. Developing and Testing Applications

It turns out that VPS can also be used to develop applications, you know! Starting from applications on desktops, and websites, to mobile platforms.

By using a Virtual Private Server, you can install all the necessary tools. For example, if you are interested in making Windows-based applications, you can install Silverlight, the .NET framework, and SQL. On the other hand, if you are interested in Linux applications, you can install PHP or Ruby on Rails. Everything is there.

Apart from that, VPS also helps you to test your app before launching. Armed with KVM VPS hosting, you are free to create special spaces in your VPS and install the same applications there. From there, you can modify apps in different spaces, do testing, identify bugs, and find ways to fix them.

Of course, instead of having to spend money for a hosting subscription or a special test server, using a VPS can be the right choice.

5. Data Backup

The last VPS function is data backup. Maybe you already know, that all servers are prone to data loss. Either because the file is damaged, deleted, misconfigured, or even hacked.

By having a VPS for server backup, you can keep the latest server data up-to-date. Especially if there is a lot of data that must be backed up. So, when an unwanted problem occurs on the main server, there will be a backup server that can be restored at any time.

When should you use a VPS?

If you already know the VPS function, of course, you feel interested in using this hosting service. However, make sure you are not rash, okay? Because actually, not all websites have to use a VPS. Here are some things you need to consider before switching to a VPS service.

1. Website Traffic Too High

If the website already gets too high traffic. Let’s say it has reached the number of millions of visitors per month. Then you should immediately switch to a VPS service.

You need to use a Virtual Private Server service to get more resources and bandwidth. So, the access speed and performance of your website will not be disturbed.

2. Want to Have Full Control of the Website

Shared hosting services are not enough to provide resources and full control for large companies or organizations. This is what makes users usually switch to VPS services.

By switching to a VPS, you are free to choose the server operating system and change the server settings used. In addition, you are also more flexible in determining which control panel to use. Like, VestaCP, Webuzo, cPanel, or others.

3. Requires Large File Storage

VPS is a great choice if you need large file storage space. Compared to other types of hosting, VPS arguably offers a large amount of storage space at an affordable price.

By using a VPS, you can freely use the available storage space. Because you don’t need to share storage space with other users. So, the performance of your website can be maximized.

4. Requires a More Secure Server

Full control of the servers owned by VPS services can ensure the security of your website. Undivided storage space and bandwidth can make the server more stable and secure.

This service also allows you to configure the VPS security according to the standard required. This is what drives many large companies or websites to choose to use VPS services.

5. Have Sufficient Knowledge to Manage VPS

The most important thing before switching to a VPS service is to make sure you have sufficient knowledge to manage a VPS. Especially if you choose to use an unmanaged VPS service.

This is because unmanaged services require you to set up and configure your VPS independently.

Considering that currently, most VPS service providers offer unmanaged services. So, you should be able to manage your VPS independently. If not, of course, you will be confused when using it.

Tips to Choose the Best VPS Hosting

The tips for choosing a VPS that you need to pay attention to include:

1. Identify Your Needs

The first thing you should pay attention to when choosing a VPS is to identify your needs first. In simple terms, know what you want to do using the VPS?

For example, you want to host data backups, host software or websites, set up a VPN, and so on. Of course, you have to choose a hosting that suits your needs.

By identifying your needs, it will be easier for you to determine the VPS hosting service you need. First, from the technical aspects such as RAM, CPU, and hard disk. After that, only then can you compare the advantages and disadvantages of these service providers.

2. Choice of Operating System

The server operating system is another important aspect that you need to consider. Generally, VPS service providers use Windows and Linux operating systems.

At first glance, Linux OS is more popular than Windows. In addition to being open-source and free, Linux OS offers much more flexible management than its competitors. Starting from resources, choice of tools, CMS, and so on.

Different again with the Windows OS. This OS option is less attractive because it is paid and is less flexible. Windows OS limits the choice of tools and CMS that you can use. Not to mention, the management is a bit complicated, especially for novice users. However, because the model is paid, the Windows OS provides technical support services for you.

So, which one is the best? You can choose the operating system according to the specifications and needs of each.

3. Monthly Bandwidth Capacity

Bandwidth is the maximum capacity used for sending and receiving data. It serves to divide the speed of data transfer so that it is distributed fairly to all users.

The majority of VPS services set a limit on bandwidth usage capacity each month. When the usage exceeds the capacity, the access capacity to the VPS becomes slower. Well, make sure you choose a VPS service that doesn’t charge extra for excess bandwidth on normal usage.

4. RAM and CPU

VPS does have large resources that allow you to run multiple websites at once.

However, you need to know that the RAM and CPU capacity available on a VPS server has limitations. The more websites on the server, of course, will affect RAM performance.

So, make sure you choose the RAM and CPU capacity that suits your needs. Generally, VPS can run effectively with a RAM capacity of 4 GB. The greater the RAM and CPU capacity used, the more websites that can be added.

5. Storage Space

VPS services provide large enough storage space to store various kinds of files. However, the amount of available storage space depends on the package you choose. So, you need to know the server requirements and data size before choosing a VPS service.

Therefore, make sure that the VPS service you choose provides sufficient storage capacity to store data and other information in the next few years. This is worth noting because some VPS service providers limit storage space to a certain amount.

Regardless of the size capacity offered, make sure you use capable storage, such as a Solid State Drive (SSD). Because SSDs have much faster performance when compared to conventional hard drives.

6. Find out the technology used

When choosing a VPS service, you need to know what technology is used, especially the software that supports the service. The goal is to find out whether the technology is compatible with a particular kernel version or should use the latest version.

Don’t be tempted by cheap prices! Make sure you have checked the software and hardware used. So, it will be easier for you to manage your website and increase access speed.

7. Security System

The next tip in choosing a VPS is to make sure that the VPS service provider you choose has reliable security features. This aims to reduce the risk of data loss and malware attacks on the server.

Even though VPS guarantees more data security. However, you must pay attention to the security system offered. Some of the security features that you need to pay attention to when choosing a VPS service include Secure Socket Layer (SSL) certificates, DDoS protection, Firewall, and malware scanning.

8. Root Access

Root access is a necessary feature for a developer or IT professional. Having root access on the server allows you to access and edit files as well as develop software on the VPS.

With root access, you have complete control over the server. So, you can directly install any application easily. You can even configure server applications to suit your needs.

9. Adjust the Budget

Before choosing a VPS service, you need to adjust to a predetermined budget. However, take it easy. There are now many different types of VPS and plans available. So, you can be freer in choosing a VPS service according to your needs.

Make sure you choose a hosting service package that provides the best specifications to meet your needs.

If you are interested in using a VPS. You can visit several VPS service providers such as Hostinger, GoDaddy, Namecheap, Bluehost, and many others.