A Virtual Private Server (VPS) is often seen as an in-between solution between a shared hosting plan and a dedicated server. You share some hardware with your neighbors but have guaranteed access to resources in terms of RAM and CPU power (they are still shared but the host manages the usage). The server is partitioned into a limited number of VPSs so each VPS runs as an independent server; it can be rebooted.

Pros :

• Guaranteed resources
• Access to core applications of the machine to install almost anything
• Less expensive than a dedicated server
• Can be used to ‘resell’ space

Cons :

• Requires more technical expertise than a shared plan
• Still some security risks due to shared hardware

A VPS can be a good alternative to a dedicated server. Particularly if you wish to test your server management skills before moving on to the big box. You can find VPSs as low as 20-30$/month, and a good VPS can often be better than an aging dedicated server.

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