A dedicated server is web hosting where an individual website has the exclusive use of an entire server. Whilst it has its benefits, it can be a very costly option, which leads some users to ask “are dedicated servers worth it?”

 

So, are dedicated servers worth it? Dedicated servers are worth the extra cost, as they come with a range of benefits that other types of servers lack. These include advanced security, automation, AI, and privacy. That being said, the value of the additional benefits of dedicated servers will differ from business to business, and only you can decide if a dedicated server is worth it for your business.  

 

In this article, we dive deeper into the world of dedicated servers to help you decide whether or not they are worth the extra cost for your business. We’ll also explain how they work, the different types of dedicated servers available, how to choose a good dedicated server, and we’ll also give you some good alternatives if you decide that a dedicated server isn’t quite right for your business.

Are Dedicated Servers Worth It?

Only you can decide if a dedicated server is worth it for your business. But, to help you decide, we’ve listed some of the key benefits of dedicated servers below. Remember that these tend to be exclusive to dedicated servers, and are what pushes up the cost. 

Usage Speeds

One of the main benefits of using a dedicated server to host your website is a consistent usage speed for both your employees and your customers. This helps to boost productivity internally, reduce downtime, and can help to improve customer experience and satisfaction. 

Added Security

Dedicated servers, especially dedicated cloud servers, are known to be the most secure server available. This is because the server is not shared with other websites, and the website owner/manager has complete control. 

 

This is particularly beneficial for companies that have access to, or store sensitive customer information, and should make the extra costs of a dedicated server 100% worth it. 

Added Privacy

As your website is the sole user of the server, you are guaranteed privacy. Like with additional security, this is vital for businesses that handle sensitive information and should be worth the extra cost. 

Fewer Overheads

Whilst you might end up paying extra for a dedicated server, there are fewer overheads than with other server types. Owners do not need to pay extra for purchasing or maintaining equipment.

 

Are Dedicated Servers Better?

Dedicated servers are better for a number of reasons, however, “better” is completely subjective to your business requirements. That being said, all businesses can benefit from the increased CPU performance, productivity, and reliability gained from the sole use of the server. 

 

It also allows businesses to have a degree of flexibility and configuration with regards to customising the server to the exact needs of the business. This relates to CPU, RAM, disk space, and software. 

What Are The Types of Dedicated Servers?

A dedicated server is not a one-size-fits-all approach. They can be used for a variety of reasons, for both work and play – many users of dedicated servers actually use them for gaming.

  • Dedicated Web Server – most commonly used for hosting websites, software, and data. Provides a better user experience for customers, as well as more flexibility for the business.
  • Dedicated File Server – Store and distribute files, with the ability for multiple users to access the same file at once. A common example would be Google Drive. 
  • Dedicated Application Server – Host all of your applications in one place. This saves space on the network, and means that users don’t have to download and store applications locally. 
  • Dedicated Database Server – The additional privacy and security of dedicated servers make them perfect for storing large amounts of data and sensitive information. Migrating databases to a dedicated server also helps to speed up processes and limits downtime. 

How Do I Choose a Good Dedicated Server?

When choosing a dedicated server provider, you first need to consider your business requirements and how you intend to use the server. Some other things to consider include:

  • Reputable management
  • Performance and storage requirements
  • Network quality & physical location of the server
  • Bandwidth
  • High Availability and the impact of downtime on the business

Managed Solutions and Dedicated Server Hosting Alternatives

Managed Hosting

Managed hosting is where a service provider leases dedicated servers and hardware to a single customer and manages those services on the customer’s behalf. This is a great option if you like the sound of a dedicated server, but don’t want the hassle of managing it yourself. Naturally, this management comes with an additional cost, but consider the benefits of having an expert manage your network. 

VPS

VPS is a virtual private server that works by taking a large, powerful server and essentially splitting it to create a number of small private virtual servers. It is an affordable alternative to dedicated servers with a number of similar benefits:

 

  • Different configurations to shared servers
  • Complete control
  • Guaranteed to stay online with no physical components
  • Dedicated resource allocation
  • Strong security
  • Managed services

Web Services and IT Support Leeds

777 Networks is a web services and IT support company in Leeds. We’re one of the few IT support companies in Yorkshire and across England that have the technical knowledge and years of experience to seamlessly support your IT function. Whether you’re looking for cloud migration services, IT security services, web services, or managed IT services, we’re here to help. 

 

Get in touch with us today to discuss your business’ IT needs. 

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