When choosing between cloud and VPS web hosting plans, most users struggle to select the right one. Both hosting types are powered by virtualization, allowing multiple virtual servers to run on a single physical machine.
However, they differ in terms of their infrastructure, performance capabilities, and scalability. Let’s discuss the major differences between cloud and VPS hosting servers so you can make a final decision based on your specific needs.
What is Cloud Hosting?
A cloud server is a network of multiple servers that work together, located at different geographical locations, to ensure accessibility.
The workload is shared among several servers instead of a single one. If one server on the network goes down temporarily, you can still be assured of accessibility as the other takes over.
All of this is possible without the need to switch hardware or add resources. The infrastructure is monitored, taking into account predetermined rules, and whenever there is demand, the resources get added based on them.
What is VPS Hosting?
VPS hosting is powered by virtualization technology and a hypervisor that divides one server into several VMs. The hypervisor divides the server, whereas virtualization technology ensures efficient management of resources in a shared environment.
In a VPS hosting environment, users enjoy independent resources, regardless of the server being shared. The key difference between the two technologies is that VPS hosting uses resources from a dedicated server situated at one location. However, now, with time, you will see that several VPS servers are based on cloud infrastructure.
A VPS server is more suitable for those who have high power requirements and stability needs, such as hosting an e-commerce business.
Cloud Hosting vs VPS Hosting – Key Differences
| Features | VPS Hosting | Cloud Hosting |
| Infrastructure | With VPS hosting, one physical server is divided into several VMs. | Cloud is a network of multiple interconnected servers working together to ensure accessibility. This is done by ensuring no server bears the entire server load, eliminating the issue of single point failure. |
| Scalability | Scalability in a VPS server is easy, thanks to virtualization technology. However, it requires manual tweaks for scalability. | Cloud resources are monitored using tools, and scaling happens automatically based on predetermined rules. |
| Performance | With VPS, resources are dedicated to a single website to support higher performance. | Cloud resources are dynamic and support enhanced performance. |
| Cost | A VPS hosting server comes with a fixed pricing strategy. | Cloud hosting plans come with a pay-as-you-go option. |
| Uptime and Reliability | VPS hosting uptime depends on the provider; hence, free VPS hosting plans are not very dependable. | Cloud hosting has built-in redundancy. |
| Security | VPS hosting isolates the environment, ensuring security. | Dependency on the provider for robust security. |
Cloud vs VPS Hosting: Key Takeaways
Both cloud and VPS server infrastructure have their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Though on the ground of management, the cloud is more advanced as it requires less manual handling.
When it comes to handling sensitive data, the isolation that comes with the cloud is more reliable.
Conclusion
The final decision between cloud and VPS depends on your requirements. Both are popular options with their own set of advantages and disadvantages. For limitless growth, a cloud server is great.
But if your requirement is stable and secure, then a VPS hosting server works better. Weigh your options and choose which option works best for your infrastructure.