5 Differences between Cloud Hosting and VPS Hosting

June 12, 2019 by Michelle N.

Photo by imgix on Unsplash

Cloud hosting and virtual private server (VPS) hosting are two options to consider when determining how to host a website, but what makes them different? While cloud hosting provides an unlimited number of interconnected computers/servers that share access to the same data system, VPS hosting provides space for each user on a single dedicated server or group of servers. Today, we’ll look at five important differences between cloud hosting and VPS hosting.

Customization

When considering cloud hosting, it is important to know that using cloud-based servers will limit some aspects of customization. This is due to the differences between operating systems (Windows, Linux, Apple iOS for example) that will restrict some features related to firewall and IP connections. Due to the complex nature of connecting multiple computers in multiple locations, advanced IT support may be required. VPS hosting, on the other hand, provides fewer limitations due to the use of physical computer stations to host the network activities. It is important to consider that companies running more than one operating system will need to have one dedicated host station per system.

Performance

Performance is another key component of how cloud hosting differs from VPS hosting. With cloud hosting, performance can constantly be maximized depending on usage. This is due to having multiple servers available at all times to address the need for more speed. Cloud hosting is also helpful when one server fails; the file and the functionality can be shifted automatically without downtime or significant delay. In VPS hosting, performance is guaranteed with respect to having many machines that are running concurrently. It is important to consider that VPS hosting servers are physical machines and failure of hosting machines will result in outages for the entire server. However, VPS hosting can often be moved to cloud hosting in such an event and until repairs are completed.

Security

Security is a high priority for both types of servers, but there are some differences in how high levels of security are managed between cloud hosting and VPS hosting solutions. In cloud hosting, security is a little harder to control on a consistent basis. This is due to the various locations where data is stored and where data is accessed. Since the data is stored on web-based hosting locations, these can be particularly at risk for cyberattacks. Conversely, in VPS hosting, security is held in the highest regard–each VPS machine has its own security settings, but a weakness in any one machine can impact performance and security in the other machines. Since data is most often stored in central locations, it is easier to control access to the data and pinpoint security failures.

Cost

When considering where to host your company data, cost is another key concern. In cloud hosting, costs are impacted by the level of detail required to establish and maintain the data. The more hardware, the more data, the more connections–the higher the cost. With respect to VPS hosting, costs tend to be lower due to the limited nature of accessing information from fixed locations. Since there is a limit to the other aspects of using a VPS hosting solution, the costs are fixed and better able to be adjusted depending on needs over time.

Scalability

Much like the other components that we’ve discussed, scalability is something that differs between the two types of hosting. In the case of cloud hosting, the sky is literally the limit. When more or less resources are needed, the cloud host can increase or decrease accordingly. In the case of VPS hosting, the level of service tends to be limited due to the physical size of the network equipment provided. Once you’ve had a chance to consider your options, contact Solar VPS. We have a variety of options to suit your unique needs. No matter whether cloud-based or VPS-based tools are the better choice for your team, we’re here to help! Contact Solar VPS today!

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