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What Is It?

A dedicated server is a name for a server (node) that is used solely for and by one organization, business, or operation. This server is “dedicated” to running that single customer’s software, Web site, or other services for that customer. This server is not owned by the customer, but can be rented monthly or yearly in most cases, and it uses the NOC’s (Network Operations Center) connection to the Internet and other services much the same as the client who would rent space on a non-dedicated server.

Who Is it For?

Dedicated servers are typically used for Web sites that maintain high traffic levels, and that need more resources and much more processing power than shared hosting can offer.

Features

Customers who rent dedicated servers generally seek more control of a server without the hassles of owning that server. The ability to rent a server usually means that the hosting service will provide easier upgrades and better support for that server. Still, the customer has full control over the server including choice of operating system, hardware, and software. Additionally, most hosting companies that offer dedicated servers will provide administration for that server as part of a server package or as an add-on service.

Dedicated servers usually are housed in data centers similar to co-location facilities, where customers are provided with the same benefits as the server owner in a co-location set up. These include, but are not limited to, redundant power sources and backup services, climate control, fire and flood control, redundant server failure protection, firewalls and other security devices and more.

Other useful features may include a Serial Console or KVM/IP which is used to gain access to a server if the user is unable to get in by normal means. Automated restore to restore a server to its original configuration is an option, along with remote backup space and the ability to apply software such as ColdFusion, SQL, and Oracle.

Compatibility

Since the NOC will provide the dedicated server, the customer needs to understand whether that server is Linux or Windows compliant. This limitation will dictate the software and programs that can be used on that server. Additionally, the availability, price and employee familiarity with various programs may determine the operating systems offered through a dedicated server.

Variations of Linux, or other Open Source operating systems, often are included at no charge to the customer. However, Microsoft requires license fees that are passed on to the consumer through the dedicated server operational fees. So a Windows operating system server will invariably cost more than the Linux dedicated server. With that said, Red Hat is the enterprise version of Linux that requires a monthly fee that will be passed on to the customer in most cases.

Support for any of the operating systems mentioned above depends solely on the management offered through the dedicated server host. This support can include updates to the operating system, security patch applications, upgrades, and other management. This service relieves the customer from any burden that server management implies.

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