Introduction to Managed Hosting

Managed hosting describes a situation where a provider handles the administrative tasks of a web server.  Although it may also describe the arrangement with a shared host, managed hosting generally refers to a server solution for individuals looking to turn over the management functions of their network operation to another company.  This may include maintenance of the server, storage, bandwidth, software applications and other associated components.  Many companies choose this type of hosting because of tighter security and better reliability as some managed providers offer an uptime guarantee of 100%.  As several businesses aren’t physically able to maintain the technical aspects of their operation, the managed hosting provider steps up with a fully equipped data center and quality support to offer a higher level of service.

Managed Hosting Fees

Just like any other form of hosting, managed hosting comes at a monthly fee and offers numerous benefits to the customer.  Though more expensive on first glance, it spares a company of spending money on the necessary software and hardware required to host their own internet business.  The aspect of managed hosting can be compared to outsourcing the IT-related services of a business to another company.  It is also similar in some aspects to colocation hosting.

Who Should Consider Managed Hosting?

While shared hosting is suited for the small business, managed hosting is suited for larger organizations that require a dedicated server.  This solution gives them to opportunity to focus on the core of the business opposed to spending extra time and resources managing the technical aspects.  Apart from not having to worry about server maintenance and software installations, managed hosting also comes with tighter security.  The dedicated server alone frees you from the traffic and stability issues associated with shared hosting and the managed host can better assure that the operation runs efficiently.  When considering the backing of an experienced technical support staff, a reliable uptime and infrastructure at a fixed cost, managed hosting offers excellent value for your dollar.

Similar to other types of hosting, the managed environment extends into a wide variety of service options.  Some of this includes additional security products and database administration tools along with fully managed SQL hosting services.  The basic essentials in regard to server management consists of administering stored files, database support, internet connectivity, load balancing as well as monitoring and reporting of the server.  Naturally, the hosting company is also responsible for the physical maintenance and security.  Furthermore, some companies provide software-related services for an additional fee.   This may include implementing anti-virus solutions along with firewalls and intrusions detection systems.  Since you have a large say in what goes on the server, managed hosting is the perfect choice for someone who desires control over the server but needs a fully managed service to do so.

Managed hosting offers numerous benefits but is not the solution for everyone.  This type of service is more suited for someone that needs to hand over the server maintenance to experts while focusing on the essentials of their business. More importantly, its designed for the business able to consistently fork over the monthly expenses required for such a solution.

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Nov 19, 2008 : Managed Hosting No responses yet

What is Managed Hosting?

When the capacity and features of a shared server are no longer enough, you may want to consider moving to a dedicated server with managed hosting.  Managed hosting is a viable solution for companies that have established thriving web sites with large volumes of traffic.  It essentially describes a situation where a hosting provider takes care of the administrative tasks and functioning of your dedicated server.  This type of plan is well suited for those who want to turn over the load of completely managing their own web server, hardware, software and other related components.  Managed hosting is most commonly used by companies in need of dedicated support for the server.  Many companies will guarantee an up time of 100% while maintaining servers for their clients.  While this percentage remains questionable, the infrastructure, technical support and efficiency provided by a managed host tends to be much better than traditional hosting services.

What to Expect From Managed Web Hosting

The managed approach is more expensive than traditional hosting, however, it does offer savings by providing software, hardware and other components needed to run a server into a lower priced package.  These components are designed into an operating expenditure-based system and typically require a monthly fee for a fully managed service.  From an IT point of view, managed hosting can be viewed similar to outsourcing the technical aspects of an online business to a more skilled team.

This type of hosting is also used by large internet businesses who want to focus efforts on the core of their business instead of dealing with the extra responsibilities that come along with managing a dedicated server.  Managed hosting significantly alleviates the performance and security issues related to basic dedicated hosting and shared hosting environments as well.  Although it may seem expensive on the surface, managed hosting is actually a rather cost-efficient option when considering the fact that uptime, technical support, responsiveness and a dependable infrastructure will be guaranteed at a fixed price.

Managed hosting services typically extend to database administration, private networks and security products.  Some providers also include managed SQL server hosting plans.  This covers the critical aspects of server administration such as database hosting, load balancing, managing storage, connectivity and server monitoring.  This type of hosting also includes physical maintenance such as software and hardware servicing.   This makes a great solution for individuals and businesses who prefer a fully managed service yet want to maintain a level of control over their server.

Final Thoughts to Consider

In conclusion, the managed hosting environment is perfect for online businesses who simply do not have the time to maintain a dedicated server.  It gives you the ability to focus on critical aspects such as marketing the business while your server is maintained by trained experts who make sure it runs at peak performance.  Additionally, all of these perks can be enjoyed without shelling out the up front money required to handle a dedicated server.  With a more reliable uptime, a greater level of security and better functionality, you can be more assured that your server will continue to run efficiently and keep your online business thriving.

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Jul 29, 2008 : Managed Hosting No responses yet

Benefits of Managed Hosting

Managed hosting gives companies and individuals several options for maintaining a dedicated server. The common goal of this kind of hosting is to lift the burden from administering software and hardware to ensure that the server is always up and running. Managed hosting also eliminates the need for third-party technicians which could end up being quite expensive.

One of the main advantages of managed hosting is reliability. Many providers will offer an up-time of 100%, assuring that their clients’ servers will never be offline. Managed hosting can better assure that a server will always be accessible which prevents the loss of productivity and more importantly, sales. It is ideal for large companies who want to ensure that their products and services are available to clients at all time.

If a hard drive does happen to fail, managed hosts provide what is often referred to as a “hot spare” which is used to guarantee continuous performance while service is underway. When selecting managed hosting, you have the opportunity to go with initial storage options and then make upgrades when necessary. These upgrades are performed online, sparing you the time of system restarts and probable data loss.

Managed hosting is very flexible and gives you the ability to build the ultimate server. On this platform, you don not have to be subdued to the capacity limitations associated with shared hosting. If more bandwidth and storage are required, these upgrades can also be made directly online, something that is nearly impossible with basic dedicated hosting.

Managed hosting provides enhanced security as well. By limiting physical access to servers and SAN (storage area network) devices, data can be protected regardless of how and where it travels along network paths. This ensures that sensitive information will only be accessible to those authorized to access it.

Data is always protected with the implementation of redundant backup systems and firewalls.

Servers typically receive 24-hour monitoring and management including any operations and ongoing configurations that may be requested by a client. This effective level of around-the-clock security prevents intruders and computer hackers from gaining unauthorized access to confidential data.

Lastly, managed hosting includes licensing and the installation of operating systems along with any applications and hardware that need to be installed. The providers offer continuous support once the operating system is installed, and they also handle critical security patches that need to be installed. Furthermore, managed hosting providers are known for their reliable technical support systems, allowing clients to receive immediate assistance in the event of troubles with the server or remote access.

Conclusion

There are many reasons to outsource the tasks of your dedicated server to a managed hosting provider. Though more expensive than a shared hosting environment, this type of plan offers savings in regard to reliability and efficiency. It gives you complete control of your dedicated server without having to handle the grueling physical aspects. Managed hosting eliminates the need for onsite staff and technicians, guaranteeing that resources are widely available and sites are always open for business.

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Jul 23, 2008 : Managed Hosting No responses yet