A dedicated server is an IT solution adapted for companies and organisations whose activity requires a lot of resources, and total flexibility. It offers high levels of computing power and storage space, as well as the ability to customise the settings and software installed on the machine. Unlike a standard web hosting package designed for hosting simple websites, a dedicated server offers more versatility and options. For example, you can connect multiple machines to one another to create your own custom infrastructure, or use virtualization technology to deploy a fleet of virtual machines. The flexibility offered by dedicated servers makes them perfect for launching all types of web project.

Dedicated server definition

A dedicated server is a computer generally used to host websites and applications. Unlike shared hosting, where the server’s hardware resources are divided between several users, a dedicated server is reserved for a single company or organisation. This means that all of the server’s resources, including memory (RAM), processor (CPU) and storage space — are entirely dedicated to the machine’s user.

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From cloud technology to applications and big data, a dedicated server is the foundation of any web infrastructure. These infrastructures are built using a range of different machines. The software layers are then added to set up the final service.

How a dedicated server works

In order to work, a dedicated server must have an internet connection, an operating system, and software installed on it. The operating system (Linux and its distributions, e.g. Ubuntu, CentOS — or even Windows Server) manages the basic server’s basic tasks, like memory and computing power allocation. The software is what enables the server to fulfil specific functions, such as hosting a website or application. With these elements combined, the server functions like a computer. The user can then adapt it to suit their project’s requirements.

What are the advantages of a dedicated server?

Long-term savings: Renting a dedicated server rather than buying one represents a long-term, cost-effective solution for your business, since you will not need to invest in or maintain an expensive machine.

Saves time: Managing your server or datacentre can be time-consuming, and requires trained maintenance staff. By choosing a dedicated server managed by a third-party service provider, you can focus on your core business with the knowledge that your server is in good hands.

A reliable solution: Dedicated servers typically come with a service level agreement (SLA), which guarantees high availability for your product. This means you can rest assured that your website or application will remain accessible round-the-clock.

Full customisation: You get root access to your dedicated server, so you are free to configure it to fit your needs. You also get total flexibility in terms of the operating system and software you want to install on it. This means you can adapt your server to suit your requirements, and those of your website or application. With some dedicated server products, users can pick and choose which hardware components to add — so you can design your very own custom solution.

Advanced features: Cloud service providers offer a range of included and additional services and features with their products. These may include backup services, advanced security, private network and anti-DDoS solutions.

Your high-performance dedicated server at the best price.

Looking for a server solution that offers the very best value for performance? So you Start servers are perfect for startups and SMEs looking to harness the power and flexibility of a dedicated server without exceeding their budget.

250Mbit/s unlimited bandwidth*
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Ticket and telephone support
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Dedicated Server or VPS?

Virtual private server

A VPS is a server created using virtualization software, and hosted on a physical machine. Since multiple VPSs can be created from a single physical server, it is a much more affordable solution than a dedicated server. VPS products are best suited to companies with lower resource requirements, such as hosting websites or business applications. With a VPS, users can also choose from a comprehensive range of operating systems. However, it is not possible to configure the operating system manually, as you can with a dedicated server.

Dedicated server

Dedicated servers and virtual private servers (VPS) are two types of computing server, and they each have their own specific features and advantages. A dedicated server is a physical machine dedicated to a single user. This means that all of the server’s hardware resources are allocated exclusively to its single user. It is a perfect solution for companies that need high levels of computing power and storage. Dedicated servers also offer total flexibility. Users can install whatever operating system they want on it, and there are no limitations in terms of how they configure it.

Two solutions for two needs

In short, a dedicated server is great for companies with computing- and storage-intensive requirements. A VPS is a more affordable solution, specially adapted for companies that require less resources. Both solutions can be used to host websites and applications. Dedicated servers are also suitable for hosting business infrastructures, high-performance computing, big data and machine learning.

What is a dedicated server?