Web Hosting Reviews & Ratings

November 09, 2010

Private Hosting vs Colocation Hosting

Many serious business owners and corporations opt to purchase their own web server for greater independence and freedom. However, there are many difficulties associated with private hosting, most of which involve the complications of storing the web server in a safe environment and providing the necessary support to keep the server operating smoothly.

Fortunately, for individuals and businesses that do not have the skill, time or investment needed to store and manage their own web server, there is colocation hosting. The following thorough comparison should help you decide whether private hosting or collocation hosting is right for your business.

Pros and Cons of Private Hosting

Hosting your own web server has a few significant advantages, including privacy, independence, and freedom. With your own private web server you'll have complete control over software configuration and resource allocation. With private hosting you can completely remove all limits that are associated with conventional web hosting plans. For this reason, many successful corporations decide to utilize a private hosting environment for enhanced security and hosting freedom.

On the other hand, private hosting requires a substantial investment time and/or money. The cost of the web server alone is going to be in the thousand, not to mention the operating system which will cost another couple hundred to a thousand (depending on which OS you choose). After the server has been purchased and setup, you then have to connect it to the internet, configure the server software, and continuously maintain the server through the administrative interface.

Unless you have money to hire the assistance of an IT specialist, you'll most likely be spending a lot of time learning server technology. The high initial investment and the need for technical knowledge usually sends most business owners towards a more convenient solution.

Pros and Cons of Colocation Hosting

With colocation hosting you still have to pay for your own web server, however you don't have to worry about the server environment and security. Colocation hosting is unlike any other web hosting plan, because the service does not include the leasing of a web server. Instead, you are required to supply your own web server, and the colocation hosting company simply stores this web server and provides an ideal environment for it.

Colocation facilities are some of the safest datacenters in the world, with state-of-the-art protective technology, advanced fire extinguishing systems, 24 hour security and incredible environmental control. Colocation hosting does not provide technical support by default, however it is possible to purchase a colocation plan that includes technical support and assistance.

Tags: private hosting,  Colocation Hosting,  private web server,  privacy,  server technology