How to choose a VPS: a guide for beginners

vps

Choosing a VPS (Virtual Private Server) can seem like a daunting task, especially if you are a beginner. In this guide, we will go over the main aspects to consider when choosing a VPS for your business to find the best solution that fits your needs and budget.

Identifying needs: analyzing tasks and resources

Before choosing a VPS, it is important to understand what tasks the server will perform and what resources it will require:

 

RAM

RAM affects the speed and stability of the VPS. For small sites or blogs 1-2 GB is enough. However, if you have an online store with a large number of users or plan to use resource-intensive applications (e.g. CRM-systems, complex applications), you may need 4 GB or more. RAM is required to perform tasks on the server, such as processing requests and running background processes.

Central processing unit (CPU)

The number of virtual processor cores determines how fast the server can process tasks. The more cores, the more computational tasks the server can perform simultaneously. For example, if your project involves data analysis or video processing, you will need a VPS with more cores.

Disk space

Determine how much data you need to store. For example, a site that contains a lot of images or videos requires more space. SSDs allow for faster loading and processing of data, which is especially important for sites with a lot of media files or databases. SSDs also improve performance by providing quick access to data.

Network traffic

If the site or service involves a large number of visitors, choose high-limit or unlimited traffic plans to avoid additional costs and ensure stable operation.

Types of VPS and their features

There are several types of VPS on the market:

  • OpenVZ. This virtualization technology shares the operating system kernel with other users. It is a cost-effective option that is suitable for small projects, but limits flexibility and customization because you cannot modify the OS kernel.
  • KVM (Kernel-based Virtual Machine). Provides full virtualization with isolation from other users. Allows you to install any operating system, giving you more flexibility and control. Suitable for those who need a high degree of customization and security.
  • Managed VPS. The provider takes care of server management, including installation, updates and monitoring. This is a convenient option for those who do not want to delve into technical details, but need a reliable and stable infrastructure.
  • Unmanaged VPS. The user manages the server himself, which requires technical knowledge, but gives full control over settings and configurations. Suitable for power users who need maximum flexibility.

SLA Overview (Service Level Agreement)

SLA (Service Level Agreement) is a document that defines the provider's guarantees on service quality and availability:

  • Uptime. Make sure the provider guarantees a high level of server availability, such as 99.9%. High uptime is important to minimize downtime, especially for businesses that rely heavily on online presence.
  • Support response time. Find out how quickly the provider promises to respond to requests and resolve issues. This is especially important in cases of unexpected outages.
  • Compensation. Pay attention to compensation terms in case of SLA non-compliance. This may include refunds or additional free months of service if warranties were not honored.

VPS setup and management

After choosing a VPS, you will need to configure the server:

  1. Operating system installation. The choice between Linux and Windows depends on your needs. Linux is often used for web hosting and development because of its flexibility and security. Windows is suitable for specific applications, such as .NET applications or software that requires the use of a Windows environment.
  2. Security setup. Install a firewall, set up keyed SSH access, and create strong passwords. Consider two-factor authentication for added protection. Protecting data on the server and preventing unauthorized access are important aspects of security.
  3. Monitoring and backups. Set up monitoring systems to track performance and set up automatic backups to protect data and minimize the risks of information loss.

Choosing a VPS is a decision that can affect the success of your business. Make sure you accurately understand your needs and choose a provider that offers the resources and services you need. Start with a small plan and scale resources as your project grows. Pay special attention to security and regular backups to protect your data.