What is a Virtual Private Server?

A virtual private server "VPS" is a method of partitioning a physical server computer into multiple servers such that each has the appearance and capabilities of running on its own dedicated machine. Each virtual server can run its own full-fledged operating system, and each server can be independently rebooted.

The practice of partitioning a single server so that it appears as multiple servers has long been common practice in mainframe computers, but has seen a resurgence lately with the development of virtualization software and technologies for other architectures.

Bridge the Gap

Virtual private servers bridge the gap between shared web hosting services and dedicated hosting services, giving independence from other customers of the VPS service in software terms but at less cost than a physical dedicated server. As a VPS runs its own copy of its operating system, customers have superuser-level access to that operating system instance, and can install almost any software that runs on the OS. Certain software does not run well in a virtualized environment, including firewalls, anti-virus clients, and indeed virtualizers themselves; some VPS providers place further restrictions, but they are generally lax compared to those in shared hosting environments. Due to the number of virtualization clients typically running on a single machine, a VPS generally has limited processor time, RAM, and disk space.

Sandbox Testing

Due to their isolated nature, VPS's have become common sandboxes for possibly-insecure public services or update testing. For example, a single physical server might have two virtual private servers running: one hosting the production-level (live) website, and a second which houses a copy of it. When updates to crucial parts of software need to be made, they can be tested in the second VPS, allowing for detailed testing to be conducted without requiring several physical servers.

Use-ability and Availability

InfoQuest's high-density, manageable virtual data-center infrastructure provides:

• Enhanced usability - A redesigned interface that offers access to centralized resources, such as templates and sample virtual environments, plus a streamlined installation

• High availability - InfoQuest virtual servers include several new options to ensure maximum uptime, such as Windows Server 2003 and Red Hat clustering services, as well as Microsoft Network Load Balancing support and many new backup enhancements

• Complete management flexibility - Arrange and manage virtual environments and virtual servers according to the actual hardware infrastructure, or logically group them according to user preference.

Available for Windows and Linux

Virtual Private Servers are available for the Linux and Windows operating systems and start as low as $9.95 per month. Plans vary based upon, memory, disk storage and bandwidth allotments. Available software includes Plesk, Plesk Power Pack, Cold Fusion, Dr. Web Anti-virus, Spam Assassin, MSSQL, Smarter Mail, Miva Merchant and much more. Available services include Storasphere and Storasphere Lite for system backup, standard or priority support, toll-free telephone support, email support, problem tracking, and live website chat.