No matter what size web hosting budget you may be working with, one fact likely remains – you don’t want to spend more than you need to for quality service. One of the most common questions people have when they begin to consider dedicated server hosting is how much it will cost.
Unfortunately, there’s no easy answer to this question, as dedicated hosting costs can vary greatly depending on several factors. However, by having a solid understanding of what affects web hosting costs, you can have a better idea of what to expect.
1. Your Operating System
When you sign up for a dedicated hosting plan, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is which operating system (OS) you want your server to run on. Most hosting companies allow users to choose between a Linux or Windows OS.
Linux is typically a more affordable option, as it’s a free and open-source program. Windows, on the other hand, is often more expensive because it’s a commercial software. Beyond pricing, each operating system has its own pros and cons, so you’ll want to consider these before you make your final decision.
2. Bandwidth
Bandwidth is one of the more expensive components of hosting, and the more you need, the more you can expect to pay. Dedicated hosting plans with unmetered or unlimited bandwidth have the highest costs, so you shouldn’t shell out extra money for one unless you truly need to. A reputable hosting company should allow you to customize your bandwidth settings to suit your changing requirements and budget.
3. Data Center Location
The location where your server hardware is hosted will also impact the price you pay. Generally, data centers in major cities (such as New York City or Los Angeles) will be more expensive than those in less populated areas. The idea here is that you’re paying more to have your server hosted in a centralized location, which reduces latency and allows data to be delivered to your visitors faster.
4. Type of Storage
There are two types of dedicated server storage to choose from – solid state drives (SSDs) and hard disk drives (HDDs). While the latter tends to be more budget-friendly, it’s also typically less reliable and may run slower, as it uses moving parts to retrieve data. An SSD, on the other hand, doesn’t have any moving parts. As a result, it can access information faster, which cuts down on loading times.
5. Managed or Unmanaged
Managed dedicated servers are considerably more expensive than unmanaged options, as they include service from a team of technicians. These administrators handle all of the general “maintenance” tasks involved with keeping your server running efficiently. This includes installing updates, running security audits, and more.
While managed hosting comes at a higher price, the cost may be worth it if you’re looking to save time or have limited experience with handling your own server.
Get the Best Value from Your Dedicated Server Hosting with ReliableSite
These are just a few of the key factors that can influence the cost of your dedicated hosting. At the end of the day, it’s essential to find a hosting plan that fits your budget and provides all of the resources and services you need.
If you’re looking for high-quality dedicated server hosting, ReliableSite can help. We offer a variety of plans that can be customized to fit your budget and needs. For more information, or to get in touch with one of our expert technicians, contact us today!