A virtual server is…
What is a virtual server?
Virtual Server or Virtual Private Server, VPS is a physical server on which a set of specialized programs create a dedicated virtual environment. Virtual environments do not interact with each other, and their work cannot affect the work of other virtual environments.
Why do I need a VPS?
VPS is often used to host sites and other Internet projects by large companies, including integrators and private individuals. The main advantage of using cloud technology is relatively better data security. The events of the last decade have shown that data storage outside of desktop computers is much more secure through the use of multiple stages of protection.
The first barrier is RAID disk arrays, which allow you to save data even if several disks fail. The second stage of information protection is regular backups of stored data. This service allows you to restore such a virtual server even in case of a catastrophic failure, which is almost impossible with physical servers. The last protective barrier is energy supply. Power surges can lead to equipment failure, while in large data centers the equipment is protected by powerful uninterruptible power supplies (UPS).
The above factors, together with the low cost of rental services, make server virtualization increasingly attractive to users.
Advantages and disadvantages
The advantages of a virtual server include:
- Full control of the owner over the system.
- If the maximum level of CPU, traffic or operating system load is exceeded, the site will not be disabled.
- The owner of the VPS is not limited in the choice of technology.
- Having your own IP address.
The disadvantages of virtual servers can include:
- Difficult to manage at the beginning. Setting up a virtual server requires system administration skills and working with the command line.
- Limitation of resources depending on the selected tariff.
- Reduced speed compared to dedicated servers due to the fact that some system resources are spent on virtualization.
- Cost. Compared with virtual hosting service to create a virtual server is more expensive. Also costs are required to pay for the configuration and maintenance of the server.
Thus, virtual servers are highly reliable systems that can scale to almost any task and are ready to work around the clock.