Common Dedicated Server Questions

So you're in the market to host some data on the Internet. We've all seen the pop-up adds listing web hosting as low as $5 a month. But what do you really get for that fee? Usually you get shared space on a companies' server, with your hosting battling it out with others on the same machine. What if you have specific needs or non standard requirements for your hosting? Do you have concerns that poor performance of your hosting will affect your web presence? Are there concerns that other account users may access or damage your information? If so, perhaps a dedicated server is right for you.

What is a dedicated server?

In the broadest definition, a dedicated server is a computer system designed and implemented to perform a single task, and does it well. More often than not, a dedicated server is connected to a high speed network interface, and is capable of handling tasks from hundreds, if not thousands of users at once.

How does it work?

Dedicated servers differ from the standard home computer primarily by means of the operating system. Specialized versions of Windows, optimized for network operations, and UNIX are utilized by dedicated servers. Whereas your home computer becomes a word processor, a video game system, a check book balancer, and so on, a dedicated server utilizes a minimal user interface, allowing the majority of its work to occur on the network. CPUs are similar, as are memory and storage systems; however servers tend to have vast amounts of each.

How can I set up a dedicated server?

There are two standard answers to this question, build one or rent one. If you decide to build a server from the ground up, be sure that you have a handle on the technical choices and requirements you will have. If you have questions, a qualified computer technician can help you. Typically, large companies and corporations are the only ones that run their own dedicated servers. Of late, the choice to rent a dedicated server has become popular. Companies providing web hosting will often allow a client to rent or purchase a server at their location. This is often referred to as dedicated server hosting.

What types of dedicated servers are there?

There are multiple answers to this, but the most common dedicated servers provide website, e-mail, and database access. Web servers provide the documents users access when utilizing the Internet. Mail servers handle the transactions of messages from users across the world. Database servers manage the storage and retrieval of documents and records from vast data stores. It would be hard to imagine using the Internet today without any of these servers.

Why dedicate a server?

In the hosting market, it is not uncommon for a service provider to rent server space to dozens, if not more, accounts on the same server. Depending on usage and number of requests, some accounts may suffer as the server reaches its limits. Service providers also determine the hardware and software configuration of the machine. If you have requirements for some piece of software they have not installed, you may be out of luck. Dedicating a server puts you in control. From the hardware to the software, you choose the components that your server will employ.

Can I host my own server?

Yes, you can, if you feel you have the necessary know how. There are multiple sources for information ranging from do-it yourself books to college level classes. Many individuals and businesses host their own websites and e-mail servers. The only true requirements are fulltime network (or Internet) access and a system you can dedicate to the task.

Do I need special equipment to make a dedicated server?

Yes and no. It all depends on the type of performance you expect from your server. Older business systems have been recycled into company mail and web servers, as long as the users don't overload the capacity of the system, everything works well. By today's standards, a typical dedicated server will have multiple processors, large amounts of redundant storage, and lots of memory. Additionally, a symmetrical high speed connection is required, or information will cause the server to bog down.

What type of software do I need to make a dedicated server?

Any form of Network Operating System (NOS) will do. Microsoft offers Windows Server, which is more than adequate for most tasks. Unix and variants (Linux) are well established Network Operating Systems, but have a steep learning curve for the new administrator. Additional education and training may be required to utilize either operating system. Windows servers tend to be easier for the novice, but will require a substantial investment to operate. Unix and Linux servers are less expensive, sometimes with no cost at all, but are intended for a more experienced operator.

Do I need a dedicated server?

If you are interested in providing information to a large client base, then you may need a dedicated server. If the information you are processing contains confidential items, such as personal or credit information, then you probably should have a dedicated server. Whether or not you choose to rent a server or host your own depends or your capability and budget. Owning a server will be less expensive, but means that you are responsible for keeping it up and running. Some individuals and companies will choose to rent a server, and pay someone else to handle the headaches.

How much would it cost to pay someone to make me a dedicated server?

If you decide to purchase a ready to go dedicated server, costs will be determined by two areas. First: the machine itself, which can vary depending on your needs and expected number of users. As with most areas, performance comes at a price. A low end server could cost you $1000. For a high end server, expect to pay $5000 or more. Second: Software installation and configuration. Depending on how complex your configuration is, you could reasonably expect between 20 to 40 hours of a technician's time. If your technician charges $50 an hour, you are looking at $1000 to $2000 for setup.

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