Dedicated Server hosting
This form of hosting allows customers to lease pre-configured, high-end equipment and connectivity from the provider. Offering greater flexibility than shared hosting and less responsibility than colocated hosting, the customer generally retains control over their hosting environment. They choose their operating system and software and tailor it to their needs. The provider, however, remains responsible for administration.

Customers using a dedicated server hosting solution require an overall competency in IT and server administration issues. It also requires a more significant investment of finances, time and human resources than shared hosting.

Shared hosting
Sometimes known as virtual hosting, this is the most basic and the most inexpensive of hosting alternatives. With shared hosting, numerous customers host their websites on one server, sharing the cost of an Internet connection that’s generally faster and more secure than dial-up connections. An range of basic bundled services at a low monthly fee makes this a popular choice for first-time webmasters.

While economically sound, this type of shared hosting typically cannot handle large amounts of storage or traffic and the provider offers little to no IT services or flexibility.

Colocated hosting
For webmasters who desire complete control over their server, colocated hosting is an option. The provider offers only space for a server on their rack and usually a low performance bandwidth. The customer is responsible for everything else — purchasing, configuring and maintaining the physical hardware (servers, firewalls, etc.), software and the operating system.

Setting up and maintaining a colocated server is not a simple undertaking. It demands that the customer have a great deal of IT expertise and time. Any extra services or assistance by the provider also incurs extra costs.

Load Balancing
Distributing data across a network of servers in order to ensure that a single Web server does not get overloaded with work, thereby affecting performance.

Managed Backup
Refers to the copying of data for the purpose of having an additional copy of an original source, specifically storing data on separate tape media not located on the server. If the original data is damaged or lost, the data may be copied back from that source.

Name Server
A server responsible for translating domain names and IP addresses.

NOC
Short for Network Operations Center, a hosting company’s “home base,” so to speak. The NOC is usually where most administration, technical support and physical server storage takes place.

Packet switching
The method by which most data is exchanged throughout the Internet. Most data is broken down in to smaller “packets” prior to transfer, and then reassembled at the destination.

RAID
Short for Redundant Array of Independent Disks, a method of data protection/backup. Data is stored over a number of servers so that information will still be accessible if a piece of hardware/software crashes.

SAN
Short for Storage Area Network, a network designed to attach computer storage devices such as disk array controllers and tape libraries to servers. In a storage network, a server issues a request for specific blocks, or data segments, from specific disk drives. This method is known as block storage. The device acts in a similar fashion to an internal drive, accessing the specified block, and sending the response across the network.

Scalability
The ability of a piece of software or hardware to expand/grow as necessary.

Service Level Agreement (SLA)
A formal written agreement made between two parties: the service provider and the service recipient. The SLA itself defines the basis of understanding between the two parties for delivery of the service itself. The document can be quite complex, and sometimes underpins a formal contract. Generally, an SLA should contain clauses that define a specified level of service, support options, incentive awards for service levels exceeded and/or penalty provisions for services not provided.

SQL
Short for Standard Query Language. A standard protocol used to request information from databases. Servers that can handle SQL are known as SQL servers.

SSL
Short for Secure Sockets Layer, a protocol developed by Netscape to handle and protect confidential/sensitive information required for e-commerce transactions (like credit card numbers). SSL addresses usually begin with ‘https’.

VPN
Short for Virtual Private Network, a private communications network usually used within a company, or by several different companies, to communicate over a public network.

Web Hosting
Web hosting is a service that allows users to post web pages to the Internet. A Web host, or hosting service provider (HSP), is a business that provides the technologies and services needed for Web sites to be viewed on the Web.

XML
Short for Extensible Markup Language. XML is a language allowing developers to create their own markup tags. All XML tags are defined by the programmer, and can be interpreted differently in different applications. For example, the “” tag in HTML means Italics, but could mean anything in XML, depending on the function the developer assigns to it.

Basics of Dedicated server administration:

First of all, lets go through a list of general recommendations for all operating systems. The list is by no means comprehensive, but they are probably the most basic list of tasks & preventive maintenance tips that you will have to follow to keep your server up & running in top condition.

Set up authentication & account management before connecting to the network

• All accounts should have strong passwords.
• Administrative or root accounts should have even stronger passwords or passphrases.
• Only use the administrator or root account when absolutely necessary.
• Assign a unique administrative account and password to each individual to better distinguish activities between multiple administrators.
• Use different passwords for administrator or root and general user accounts.
• Force new users to change their passwords when they first login.
• Regularly review the access list or log for users, especially of root and groups. Look for unexpected rights or changes.
• Limit the use of the same password across dissimilar systems (use of the same password on a less secure system may endanger a more secure system).
• Disable or delete old or unused accounts that belong to people who no longer need access.
• Be sure to have a plan and process for securing administrator and root passwords that allows appropriate access to the server in case of illness, turnover, or unforeseen circumstances.

Install and patch the operating system before connecting to the network

• Run software that is current. The operating system and other software should be vendor supported for security patches.
• When installing software, make sure to only install software that is needed, making sure to install the latest versions of all software including all recommended and security patches that are available.
• Download patches to another Server and put on CD or obtain patches for Windows from the Microsoft website by ordering a CD version [If available].

Run minimum number of services

• Each server should only have the minimal number of services needed for its role.
• Make sure to configure all installed software, disable all unused features and be sure to limit the availability of any features that are enabled.
• Disable Telnet and FTP. Use SSH instead,

Install filters or firewall

• Install and configure a packet filtering utility such as TCP wrappers or a software or hardware firewall to protect individual services.
• The rules should reflect the acceptable use and security policies that have been defined for the Server.
• Operating system filters that deny or permit certain traffic should be used if available (e.g., most Unix and recent Windows versions).
• Periodically review the filters.

Set up and review logs

• Configure all services so that they log all connections and authentication information. Forward all of these logs to another secure computer if possible.
• Someone should be assigned the responsibility to periodically review and as appropriate follow up on possible security violations identified in the system logs.

Install security related software

• Install security related software on each Dedicated Server, as appropriate to the level of security needed.
• Install anti-virus or other virus filtering software with daily updating for the latest virus definitions.
• Install VPN encrypted tunnel if unable to install SSH or when clear text is a security risk.

Maintain backups and operational continuity

• Run back-ups regularly and periodically store off-site.
• Test the restore capability periodically.
• Use a “secure deletion” program to erase data from hard disks and media after done using and prior to transfer or disposal of hardware storing “not public” data.

Linux Dedicated Server Web hosting is a fast, stable, reliable, and free operating system for a website, which operates faster than other similar dedicated servers, according to information currently available on the Internet. If a website owner wishes to purchase the program on a CD instead of downloading it from the Internet, the purchase price is about £20. An important feature is, this that the Linux Dedicated Server system is open-source, meaning the source code is readily available to anyone who wants it. This availability has resulted in improvements to the system from multiple contributors that insure a very stable operating system and high uptime.

Managed Linux dedicated servers such as Linux web hosting provide clients with a top-ranked environment to host mission critical and resource intensive web sites. They include ecommerce and database applications, corporate information systems, email, and groupware applications. Anyone looking for the power and freedom of administering and running their own dedicated web server remotely, there are unmanaged dedicated servers from Linux. Most people using this brand of program for host service will have a company actually doing the hosting duties, which are many. These services should include monitoring and management seven days a week, twenty-four hours a day. Version management should be part of their service so the website owner is kept up to date on the version of the program that is in place and what other versions might be available. They should be able to plan for expansion so there is no shortage of space available.

Managed Dedicated Servers

People might be thinking about managing their own dedicated server. Before making a decision to do so they should check out the hosting packages online on fully managed dedicated servers. This will save some headaches in maintenance. A hosting service will manage and keep it up and running. Most sites offer support for technical problems pertaining to any kinds of site issues. Hosting packages range in price depending on the customized features offered. Choosing faster processor speeds and more memory will end up costing more than just the low-end basic service. However, the basic service will provide the designated dedicated server hosting with a good processor speed and adequate memory.

When choosing a web hosting service, individuals should evaluate the site for effectiveness. The functionality, traffic, and available services must be closely examined. Of course one must consider a budget when it comes to web hosting services. Weigh the differences in cost to having a dedicated server verses a full one. With managed dedicated servers technical issues will be taken care of by the hosting service. Any hardware or software issues are usually also included with technical support.

Using managed dedicated servers for a website will provide a service that will allow people to concentrate on the more important aspects of a business. Some companies that offer web hosting server management also offer tips on marketing techniques. Some include marketing packages along with hosting services to help the new business owner with initial advertising. Do some research on fully managed dedicated servers and find a reputable company that offers reasonable prices. Become informed by reading frequently answered questions on various sites and if not sure about some issues, make some phone calls using available contact information or do a live chat with a professional. This will help clear up anything people may be concerned about. “Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that which is not? for riches certainly make themselves wings; they fly away as an eagle toward heaven.

cPanel Dedicated Server

The cPanel essentially is a control panel system that hosts data on the web. This system is installed on, what is known as, a dedicated server. It must be remembered that cPanel does not have any billing service. One has to physically register clients and deal with their payments manually, using an external service provider.There are essentially two sides to this cPanel dedicated server system:

1. On the one hand there is the Web Host Manager or the WHM for whose who host the content on the web: the function of the WHM is basically to insure that the functions of the system and control panel are performed safely through the right interface. It also helps in easy administration of the hosting accounts and the reseller accounts. The good part about this is, however, the WHM does not require performing functions like manually set up user accounts, deal with their passwords and inbox, etc.

2. And on the other end is end user who uses the cPanel: it is the end user who ultimately uses the cPanel which allows them the liberty to administer everything on their own account, creating accounts, elimination accounts, clearing emails, etc.

Receiving a cPanel server:

Not all dedicated servers purchased or leased through server providers come with a cPanel system. However, while looking out for a dedicated server to purchase, one must necessarily go for a cPanel dedicated server. If cPanel is purchased with the server, there are chances of gaining a good discount on it. Web Hosting UK (webhosting.uk.com) is the popular cPanel partner Network Operating Centers. The cPanel can, however, be run on Linux.

Using the cPanel dedicated server:

The cPanel dedicated server would require to be initialized before one can start off with the publicity and client servicing bit. The following steps would give you an idea of how to go about the initialization:

1. Name servers must be set up.
2. Server protection must be gained by tuning security settings.
3. Verification for effective operation of all services must be done regularly.
4. Ad-on scripts to forward to clients may be included.
5. Security scripts can also be included.

Miscellaneous to keep in mind:

It must be remembered that cPanel does not have any billing service. One has to physically register clients and deal with their payments manually, using an external service provider.

Dedicated server vs Shared Server:

Most people pick dedicated servers, this could be because they have some experience using this services or they already read some stories about this content. If we think logically on the word “shared” this drive us directly to the knowledge that we share some concepts of the server.We hope that the server we share is totally debugged and with zero problems, we don’t want any kind of downtime on our website, this is never sure for shared websites.

So why is better the dedicated server, you principally have total control on your website, also you can install any kind of application, you can update any kind of software or hardware in your server, it’s made by your specific requirements and only for them.

Also, this option is great for people that need to upload huge amount of data, and need great capabilities for bandwidth.

For the dedicated servers we also can provide the capabilities to manage firewalls and password access, this is for security purposes. If you have big knowledge on dedicated servers, can control any kind of problem

Dedicated Server Hosting Company:

Step 1 : Search the net using search engines like google with the name of the dedicated server web-hosts from your list, you can see references to your web-hosting company on different sites. See what people are saying… are there any negative comments ? are the people singing praises Go through any discussions , comments posted on news-groups, forums etc.

While all companies will list their satisfied customers, you’ll not find the unhappy customers & negative comments posted there.. it is upto you to see if all is as rosy as it looks. See what web-hosting review sites like ours have to say about the company.

Delete from your list any hosting companies with negative feedback.

Step 2 : The customer Support factor.

Once you buy into the services of a dedicated server web hosting company, there will be occasions when you will have to contact the hosting company , for general queries, specific technical support, to register a complaint etc. So how ‘available’ is the company ? What modes of contact do they provide ?

The three basic modes of contact would ve via ‘Live-Help’ on their website, where you can chat in realtime with a customer support rep. Or via email, or via phone [many top-class companies provide a toll-free number] . Read their customer support pages to find out what kind of turn-around-time they promise on any emails. Do they promise 24×7 support ?

Many web-hosts also have some quick trouble shooting pages & DIY help pages on their site, check out how extensive and comprehensible it is.

Step 3 : The email test !

Send an email to the support email address of all the web-hosting companies on your list. You can even send an email on a Sunday or after hours to see if they really do have 24×7 support. Request for specific technical information about their service & also some pointed questions specific to the type of service you are looking for.

Evaluate the speed of their responses, judge the quality, competence and care taken in their responses to you. Test them even further by demanding that they assign a specific contact person to administer your account, so that his person will be familiar with your site and any problems it may have. This will do wonders for the Web Hosts’ accountability and sense of responsibility. Eliminate all those hosts who have not responded to your email or have responded inadequately.

Step 4 : Price-wise.

Evaluate the prices and see which host in your list offers the most for the least. The most expensive host need not be the best, neither does the cheapest host have to be the worst. Choose a host that offers you most of what you need at the most reasonable price, and with options to upgrade later for reasonable rates. If the web host has scalable packages, you can always upgrade to those other features later.

Most web hosting companies offer monthly, quarterly and yearly payment options, so be sure to ask about their minimum commitment period as well as their refund and cancellation policies. You should also receive a discount for longer time periods paid for. Exercising due diligence in these matters pays off many times over in the long run.

Now that you have all the information required.. it is decision time !

Step 5 : The final cut.

Having completed all the steps outlined above, you should be in a good position to make your decision. All the hosting companies who are remaining on your list are probably the best in the market. Choose the one which fits your requirement & your budget the best and the deal is done !

All that is left to do then is place your order and do the needful to get your site online…

Managed dedicated servers provide customized features for optimal performance towards website needs. Something to initially consider when looking at these options, is deciding what operating system is needed and what additional programs should be included. With a professional site builder and templates it is easy to customize fully managed dedicated servers. These provide flexibility and security for a website. Along with support and technical management are services that include email, DNS, security, backup system, and restoration capability, this is an option for someone who is looking for more storage capability on their website.

There are hosting packages available online that offer this type of support. Features include traffic monitors, excellent bandwidths, operating system updates, managed domains, and network monitoring. Firewall protection and power scans provide additional security. This is included in some packages. Other security features include spam filters and anti-virus software. It is possible to customize the operating system, memory, and amount of backup storage. Do an assessment on server needs before deciding on a web hosting package. A person might want to get some advice from a professional if unsure of what is needed from fully managed dedicated servers.

Some packages that are geared towards providing a business with maximum speed and manageability. These types of packages include faster processors and more memory. With demand increasing for managed dedicated servers there are many choices on hosting packages on the Internet. Support keeps a website separate and unaffected by others. Having a dedicated server means fewer worries and interruptions in service. When others share a server there will likely be some issues that arise. If someone on the network is doing a backup it could heavily utilize the network to the point that additional server users feel interruptions. This could affect viewers visiting a site and even completing a sale transaction. Sharing resources could result in slower than normal response times. These servers usually make these kinds of problems nonexistent.