Thursday 2 October 2008

Disadvantages of Using a Dedicated Server

Disadvantages of Using a Dedicated Server
By Adam Gufarotti

Those with larger websites that have high traffic volume, that have a large number of files to store or that host online games or applications on their site will need to use a dedicated server. In this case, a server is set up per the company's specifications and hosted at another site. No other client's information will be stored on this server and they will not be limited by other client's usage. These servers provide the user with a dedicated IP number and complete control of software and server access.

What are the Disadvantages?

While using a dedicated server is ideal in many situations, there are also some disadvantages for those who choose this option. In some cases, these disadvantages are outweighed by the necessity for the space and control issues that are solved by avoiding a shared server situation. When making the choice between the two services, knowing the drawbacks to dedicated hosting is important to the decision making process.

One of the biggest disadvantages to using a dedicated server is the cost. While most hosting packages that make use of shared servers are relatively inexpensive, purchasing a hosting package that is not shared is very costly. As the expenses are not shared between several accounts, the price can be out of range for many start-up companies.

For users that are not the most technically savvy webmasters, sometimes a dedicated server can be more than they can handle. Most web hosts that provide this service to their clients offer less tech support to dedicated accounts than they do to shared server account users. In order to receive the maximum benefit from a server package, the webmaster must understand exactly how to handle any issues that might arise, where on shared hosting, the tech support staff would take care of these problems.

Another disadvantage to dedicated hosting is the lack of free scripts and other additional features that those on a shared server have access to. Most web hosts offer these preinstalled on their shared hosting packages, but leave them off the dedicated servers. As customers who use a dedicated server have needs that are more specific and generally are more knowledgeable about site building, it is left up to them to install the software and services that they need.

Find the Right Solution

Finding the right hosting solution is important to the success of your website. Make sure that you carefully weigh the pros and cons of your server options and make the right choice for your web presence. Once you look at the options from all angles, you will know if a dedicated server is right for you.


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Disadvantages of Using a Dedicated Server

2 comments:

Issac said...

If you are looking for free management software for a dedicated server, you might want to check out the book offered at http://www.thededicatedserverhandbook.com/ It teaches you how to set up the basic necessities using Webmin, a free web-based control panel.

Stuart said...

Thanks for the heads up Issac - much appreciated.