Virtual Private Server Web HostingVirtual private server (VPS) Web hosting, also known as a virtual dedicated server (VDS), is a Web hosting option that resides between shared Web hosting and dedicated servers. Virtual private server technology splits a Web server into numerous accounts that each function like a dedicated server. This gives you the functionality of a dedicated server at a much lower price.nnVirtual Private Servers are useful in many situations:nnEntering the Web hosting industry: A VPS can be split into many shared Web hosting accounts, lowering the barrier to entry if you are interested in establishing a foothold in the Web hosting industry.nnGaining more control over a Web hosting account: Because a virtual private server account acts like a dedicated Web server, you get full admin-level control over the account (this is sometimes known as “root access”). This access is not given to shared Web hosting customers.nnAcquiring scale at a reasonable price: Although they feature more storage and functionality than shared Web hosting accounts, pricing for a virtual private server starts just a little higher than shared hosting prices. When you move from a shared Web hosting solution to a VPS, you also gain more privacy, stability and remove potential points of failure.nnHow to choose VPS hostingnnStorage and bandwidth allotments: Because a VPS can be split into multiple accounts, a Virtual Private Server package should include an exponential increase in storage and bandwidth over a shared Web hosting package. Most packages include at least a gigabyte of space and several hundred gigabytes of monthly bandwidth. These are particularly important considerations if you are going to use the VPS to host more than one site.nnOperating system: Like a dedicated server, VPS hosting accounts are usually offered on both the Linux and Windows platforms. Both platforms are popular and reliable; your ultimate choice will likely be based on the types of scripts and database you would like to use.nnControl panel: Because many buyers choose a VPS to host multiple sites, a Web hosting control panel like Ensim, cPanel or Plesk is usually included. Evaluate control panel options carefully, as proprietary solutions can sometimes be difficult to use.nnSupport and scalability: Placing multiple sites in a Web hosting account increases your chances of requiring support. Make sure the VPS host you choose is able to support you whenever you need it. Also ensure your Web hosting company can provide additional storage, bandwidth or even a dedicated server should you require a more powerful Web hosting solution.nnGrid and dedicated Web hosting: similar choicesnnIf you’re considering a virtual private server, it is also worth investigating dedicated servers and grid Web hosting (the latter places your sites across a distributed infrastructure). They are both priced similarly to a VPS, and may eliminate migration headaches in the future if you should ever require additional storage or power. The right choice countsnnA Virtual Private Server is an ideal Web hosting solution for a buyer in need of hosting power at an economical price. It is, however, a “middle of the road” solution; that is, while it’s clearly a more powerful solution than a shared Web hosting package, it still lacks the functionality of a dedicated server. And with dedicated Web server prices continuing to fall, make sure a VPS is going to be a reasonable, long-term solution that suits your needs; otherwise, it will merely serve as a stopgap Web hosting solution until you move to a dedicated Web server.