As the central point for a company’s networking, file sharing, and web hosting, servers play a critical role in business connectivity. However, if you’re launching or growing your company, you might not know if you’re better suited for a dedicated or virtual private server. Since both offer unique advantages, it’s a good idea to get familiar with each option. Before you decide which type fits your activities, consider this brief comparison of virtual and dedicated servers.

What Are Dedicated Servers?

A dedicated server may be operated off-site by your service provider, but it will be completely yours. Your business will be able to design resources to fit your needs, such as by running specific types of software to conduct your file-sharing, web hosting, and networking activities.

What Are Virtual Private Servers?

Like a dedicated configuration, virtual private servers are stationed remotely and maintained by a provider. However, they share resources to provide support to multiple users, including businesses that you aren’t affiliated with. Although their resources are shared, these systems create virtual machines to ensure that your activities remain private and can operate reliably.

How Do Dedicated and Virtual Private Servers Compare?

Customization

Compared to shared or cloud-hosted servers, both dedicated and virtual private configurations offer more customization. While you can optimize these servers to fit your technical needs, you can also hire a managed services provider to oversee the more complicated details of set-up and oversight.

Cost

Dedicated servers are exclusive to their users, while virtual private options share resources. As such, virtual private servers are typically much more affordable than dedicated systems.

Security

Both dedicated and virtual private servers offer a high degree of network security. However, dedicated models are considered to be more secure, as they’re isolated from other types of activity.  

Scalability

A dedicated server can handle a considerable amount of website activity and traffic. As such, it is ideal for those who already have demanding web hosting needs that remain fairly static. Virtual private servers, however, can adjust resources to fit “in the moment” demands. For this reason, virtual private models are often used by smaller start-ups that need scalability to support growth.

Whether you’re running a new business or an established corporation, 1st Point Communications offers comprehensive web hosting resources to ensure you remain connected with confidence. Based in Piscataway, NJ, and servicing the Atlantic City area, this provider offers high-tech resources to support telecommunications services in all major markets across the country. With an in-depth understanding of commercial connectivity, these specialists can help you improve your internal and external outreach, such as by implementing video conferencing, SEO services, and SMS texting. To learn more about these capabilities, visit this telecom provider online or call them at (212) 884-4400.