Web server hosting in simple terms is the process of a computer with a node designed to operate as a server that hosts your web site files. The server loads up the files to all people accessing your web domain name, if set up as a web file server. Different hosting plans exist, and they range from shared hosting servers to semi-dedicated and dedicated servers. Dedicated servers come in two choices: managed and unmanaged servers.

Managed Dedicated Server Hosting

Managed servers come managed by the service provider. As with all servers, you are provided admin access, however a managed server has the added benefit of the OS (Windows or Linux) patches being installed for you. This ensures all security patches are updated on time. The assisted service plans will also handle initial web server setup, security scans for viruses, and emergency services. If you are not familiar with windows servers and the methods to apply patches and troubleshoot problems like memory useage, then this option is an optimal solution for you. When researching these servers, they can also also be called an assisted service plan.

Unmanaged Servers

Unlike the servers where it is all managed for you, these are completely under your control. If you have an issue with your server, you will have to troubleshoot. Many dedicated server service providers do still offer support with unmanaged dedicated hosting. Support is required for Continue reading »

Are you disgusted or disappointed with your current web host? Have you switched web hosting companies too many times? Have you thought of hosting your own website(s)? Do you have the ambition to control and manage your own web server?

If you answered ‘yes’ to the questions above, then you may be ready to host your own sites. This article will give you things to consider while making the switch.

When being your own web host you should be technically inclined and have basic knowledge of operating systems, understand technical terms, understand how to setup a server environment (such as: DNS, IIS, Apache, etc.) have basic knowledge of scripting languages and databases (PHP, Perl, MySQL, etc.), be familiar with current technologies, and have a basic understanding of hardware and server components.

You should realize the pros & cons. It is one thing to say, you want to host your own web server and it is another thing to actually do it.

Pros:

*  Own sense of responsibility

*  Awareness level raised (you are at the frontline of all server happenings)

*  No monthly hosting fees/accounts

*  Incompetence no longer exist

*  Non-shared environment (dedicated server)

*  Unlimited websites, databases, content, storage, etc.

*  More bandwidth

*  No more waiting on someone else time

*  Complete control

Cons Continue reading »