What is a Dedicated Server?
Just like shared server systems (or virtual servers) similar to those that most Web developers use, the Dedicated Server also shares the large network components such as the T1/T3 Internet connections, routers, and other networking hardware. However, a Dedicated Server is a physical machine tied into the Internet used by only one customer. The customer controls the entire system, including the upgrades (which can range from extra RAM to more hard drive space). The customer controls the system via programs such as PC Anywhere, FTP Daemon, or Telnet. The Web Host provider provides various levels of maintenance for the Dedicated Server hardware and software components, as well as the physical data center space needed to keep the system.
How will a Dedicated Server fit into your needs?
In general, users matching any of the below criteria can benefit from having their own Dedicated Server:
Users that need more than 1 gigabyte of data transfer per day
Users that need more than 250 megabytes of storage
Users that need multiple IP addresses
Users installing or running applications requiring root access to the server
Users specializing in virtual hosting
Users who want more autonomy in their Web services
Users who require more bandwidth
Dedicated Server StrengthsDedicated Servers bring several obvious strengths to the table. Since your Web sites are the only ones located on the server, your Web sites will not have to fight for bandwidth with competing Web sites. On average, a Dedicated Server can have over a million hits a day, whereas your average virtual Web site processes about a tenth of that. Additionally, many Dedicated Server Hosting Providers provide multiple IP addresses without any extra costs. This is ideal for those who specialize in virtual hosting.
Another bonus is that you have full use of all the hard drive space on the Dedicated Server. Instead of sharing space with other developers, a Dedicated Server not only lets you use of all drive space located on the server, but you may add or upgrade hard drive space as needed. Dedicated Servers also have the option of adding RAM upgrades as well. Both give the user a healthy boost as far as increasing the scalability and overall performance of their Web site.
