If you are responsible for managing a high traffic website you have probably already realized the need for a dedicated server. However, a logical next step for many companies is to also outsource the management of that server with "Managed Hosting."

What is the difference between Dedicated Hosting and Managed Hosting?

A dedicated hosting solution offers obvious advantages over shared hosting in that you are given your own private server and have complete control over its use. This means of course, much faster transfer speeds with fewer bottlenecks. However you must still manage that server yourself. Some of the issues you will deal with include selection of hardware and operating systems, choosing applications, dealing with security issues, backing up your data, monitoring for up-time and lots more.

Very simply, Managed services provides all that for you. You not only have your own dedicated server, but the Managed Host provides all or part of the mangagement, maintenance, and monitoring needs for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Cost of Managed Hosting

Obviously a managed host is a little pricier than other hosting solutions. But when compared to the cost of having full-time IT staffing in-house managed services becomes very cost effective. One benefit is that the outsourcing can be scaled to your particular needs. The managed host can provide a little or a lot depending on your growth and traffic.

How to choose a Managed Host

Usually hosts that provide dedicated hosting will also provide managed hosting services as well. Talk with a service representative from the top hosting companies that you are interested in and ask some questions. Find out what the managed services include, what you will be responsible for managin and what the hosting service manages for you. In general, most webmasters want to know that the physical location, security, and hardware features are maintained by the service provider but like to have the ability to manage their own operating system, software, programs, etc. Checking with the individual providers you are interested in will help you choose the best service to meet your needs.