A virtual server (VPS/VDS server) is a prototype of a physical server created by virtualization. It is a virtual environment developed within a live server and emulates its work. It has its own operating system, ability to install software and configure all the functions for the client.
Basically, a virtual server is an economic imitation of a physical one. It has the same features and functions but it is less productive and has less storage space.
Depending on its capacity, one physical server can host up to hundreds of virtual ones.
The question is why the client does not have a whole server. Hosting a physical server is not cheap. Not all websites need so much resources.
If we talk about general indicators (cost, volume, capacity), a VPS server is somewhere between a virtual hosting and a physical server.
Consequently, clients often choose it when there are not enough shared hosting resources but they still do not need a physical server.
But this is not the only reason. The website owner may need non-standard tools or ability to administer the server autonomously. Common hosting does not have this option. It has a standard pre-configured system that works with most websites.
This is where VPS comes to the rescue. You can install your own operating system, programs, work with different programming languages on it.
This solution also helps customers out if stable website operation, consistent data access, and reliable protection are important.
What is the difference between VPS and VDS?
These names are often used to identify virtual servers. Users wonder what the difference is.
VPS means virtual private server, and VDS is virtual dedicated server. They are distinguished by only two words: private and dedicated. Actually, these abbreviations are synonyms, the meaning is the same.
Read also: How to choose an OS for a VPS server?
What is VPS server used for?
The virtual server is used for different purposes. Here are just a few of them:
- As a hosting platform for developers and web studios. The developed website needs to be hosted somewhere. Customers are often redirected for this service to a third-party provider or partner. But the developer can also be a provider, selling hosting and domain to clients on his behalf. Server hosters receive discounts on domain registration and the right to set prices for hosting independently (of course, within the market prices), so they can also make money on the price gap. This direction is generally capable of becoming a separate business.
- Hosting your own websites. A webmaster can have one or more websites that need a lot of resources. It is better to host them on a virtual server. A whole server is sometimes needed for one resource if it is a file-sharing website, a website with high traffic, or an online store.
- Server for business. Enterprises operating with large amounts of information require a server to host them since standard work computers are not enough. Hosting a virtual server not only allows you to collect all the data together but also provides constant access to it for all employees remotely.
- CRM installation. All communication channels (email, SMS, instant messengers, telephone communications), a customer funnel, a virtual office, and other work tools are integrated into the Customer Relationship Management. Many managers interact with clients. Speed and data safety play a key role in a competent organization of the process. The reasons for the customers loss often lie in the disadvantages of the system, for example, late responses from managers or the loss of contacts due to failures. Enterprises are installing CRM on a virtual server to speed up their work and make it more stable to avoid these problems.
- Voice over IP are telephone channels that work over the Internet. The service is used to receive orders from customers, for technical support work, and for call centers in large companies. The principle is that customers call the same number but get to different managers connected to the virtual office. This system is often used in CRM, helping each subscriber to get on the phone from the first time. A large number of calls seriously load the equipment, so you can use a VPS for its operation.
- 1С programs installation. Tools for accounting, reporting, and other business processes are increasingly being virtualized, as financial documents need reliable protection and the uninterrupted operation of technology. Another advantage is ability to buy only one package of the licensed software and install it on a server to which accountants and other specialists connect remotely. Considering the cost of the packages, this is a huge saving.
- Email server arrangement. This service is often used by large companies when creating a corporate email. It allows you to speed up the performance between employees, protect data from leaks (a standard mailer does not guarantee this), send large amounts of information without a third-party file-sharing website (also for security purposes). Besides, you can register a unique domain on the email server, which looks more prestigious: for example, office@company instead of office@gmail.com.
- Video monitoring. Enterprises and individuals use IP video monitoring for protection today (analog cameras are gradually receding into the past). There are special video servers for this purpose capable of storing a large number of video recordings and receiving content from remote cameras via the Internet. Besides, many of them are equipped with a video analytics system, thanks to which they can send messages about what is happening. Such systems are suitable for the protection of public places, shops, transport hubs, banks, and other important infrastructures.
- Development and testing environment. Games and software are developed by a whole team. Hosting projects on VPS servers is a common practice in IT: this ensures fast autonomous connection of each specialist, reliable data protection, and sufficient power for all operations.
These are just some of the areas where virtual servers work. Game servers, proxy servers are also created within them. They are used for trading, making remote desktops. They are also used in the field of finance, transport services, education, in supermarkets, and many other tasks.
Choose a VPS server with a tariff suitable for your business and enjoy all the benefits.
