What Is a Virtual Server?
Through the use of specialized virtualization software, one physical server functions as though it were many individual physical servers.
For example, one high-powered physical server can host five, ten, or more virtual servers. (The exact number depends on the the system requirements of the virtual servers: memory, disk space, and other resources.)
Virtual Servers fill the niche between shared hosting accounts and co-located physical servers.
Comparison Matrix
| Shared Hosting | KoH Virtual Servers | Co-located Physical Servers | |
|---|---|---|---|
| full root access | no | yes | yes |
| control firewall | no | yes | yes |
| reconfigure for specific tasks | no | yes | yes |
| install any software | no | yes | yes |
| run any service or daemon | no | yes | yes |
| use any database | no | yes | yes |
| reboot anytime | no | yes | yes |
| reinstall/change operating system | no | yes | yes |
| more than a mere web server | no | yes | yes |
| available instantly | no | yes | no |
| oversubscribed/overloaded | usually | never | never |
| add more resources: memory, disk space, etc. |
no | yes | requires site visit |
| dedicated (not shared) physical resources |
no | yes | yes |
| up-front hardware costs | none | none | yes |
| setup time | none | none | days or weeks |
| setup fees | varies | none | yes |
| installation cost | none | none | very high |
| long-term contract | varies | none | usually |
| power-usage surcharges | none | none | yes |
| bandwidth-usage surcharges | none | none | yes |
| level of expertise required | low | high | high |
KoH Virtual Servers
- total control
- no setup fee
- instant activation
- low monthly cost
KoH Virtual Servers fill the niche between shared hosting accounts and co-located physical servers.
- more powerful and flexible than shared hosting
- less expensive than co-location
Find out why virtual servers are right for you.