Virtual server hosting is part of the cloud computing phenomenon. Instead of buying and storing your own server, you can open a virtual server hosting account and move your applications and data to the cloud. Many vendors offer managed and un-managed virtual server hosting plans. Though the specifics vary by vendor, they generally work in a similar fashion. For example, the vendor will host all of the server hardware in a data center that you access over the Internet or a private virtual private network (VPN).

Why go the virtual server hosting route when you could just buy your own server? Here are a few advantages to consider when you are comparing whether to go for virtual server hosting or to buy your own private server.

Virtual Server Hosting Advantages

Cost Effective

Have you priced servers lately? You can easily spend thousands of dollars for a single server, and that’s before you’ve added security software or paid an IT professional to configure it.

In contrast, virtual server hosting vendors typically charge you for usage rather than for hardware. Entry-level virtual server hosting plans can be found for less than $20 per month! This is relatively inexpensive when compared to other options on the market.

ALSO READ: How Online Backup Will Change in 2013

Scalability

Not only can you pay as you go based on usage, virtual server hosting can grow with your organization. Start-ups may have little capital to invest in servers and data storage technology outright, yet they need robust servers. Rather than buying and maintaining a server, it’s smart to use virtual server hosting.

As the company grows, you can add additional capacity with no hassles and no additional capital expenses. This will also free up capital to invest money into other parts of the company.

ALSO READ: The Advantage of Latest Technology in Communication

Reliability

Virtual server hosting vendors take care of updates, upgrades, optimization, and maintenance. Reliability is usually defined in the vendor’s service level agreement. By choosing virtual server hosting, you can save money upfront as well as on ongoing IT maintenance costs. This will also lead to less downtime, which in turn will save your company money.

ALSO READ: The Pros and Cons of Shared Hosting

Optional Services

Depending on the vendor, optional services such as managed services, cloud server images, file-level backup, and enhanced data storage technology may be available.  Always ask the vendor if you’re not sure what options are available. They’ll be more than glad to assist.

ALSO READ: Top 5 Checklist for Web Hosting Companies

Pay as you go, add capacity as you grow, and enjoy peace of mind as well as cost savings by moving to a virtual server hosting plan.

In what ways do you think using Virtual Server Hosting could be of increase or loss to your company? Do you have any sharable ideas for us, please let’s talk.