Dedicated Server hosting in simple terms is the process of a server designed to operate as a server that hosts your web site files. The server loads up the files to all users accessing your domain name, if set up as a web server. Different dedicated server plans exist, ranging 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 Web Hosting Servers come assisted by the company providing the server. As with all servers, you are given admin control, however a managed dedicated server has the added benefit of the OS (Windows or Linux) security patches being installed for you. This makes sure all security patches are installed on time. The assisted services will also handle initial server setup, virus scans, and emergency services. If you are unfamiliar with servers and how to apply patches and troubleshoot issues like disk space problems, then this option is an optimal solution for you. When researching these hosting servers, they may also also be named 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 a problem with your web server, you will need to do the troubleshooting. Many dedicated hosting services do still provide support with unmanaged dedicated servers. Support is required for computer failures and other network problems within the data centre. After all, you can access the server, but you do not ever physically see the server, so you cannot troubleshoot hardware issues.

The experience of the purchaser will determine if a managed or unmanaged virtual dedicated server solution is required. Many dedicated server plans exist with different price points, but knowing if its managed dedicated server hosting or unmanaged server hosting will help you determine if the price warrants the service being provided to you. When making any server purchase, a higher price is indicative of a managed dedicated hosting solution.