What are Virtual Private Servers?
A virtual private server, also known as VPS or a virtual dedicated server, is an affordable way to get advanced hosting performance and control when a traditional shared hosting plan is not powerful enough to handle your traffic. Unlike a shared hosting account, a virtual private server lets you install custom programs and provides you a guaranteed port connection of 10 megabits per second.
VPS hosting takes the hassle out of using a dedicated server without losing configurability. We make it easy for you to get started with six different pre-configured plans to choose from.
For more information, see our Virtual Dedicated Linux and Virtual Dedicated Windows product support pages.
How does a Virtual Private Server differ from a Dedicated Server?
While a dedicated server is exactly as it sounds — an entire server dedicated specifically to your site — a virtual private server is partitioned in a way that it isolates your site from others on the same virtual server. This lets you have administrator (root) access, greater resources, a dedicated IP address and other features that would normally only be available with a dedicated server.
We segment these servers in a way that each VPS operates almost independently from the other segmented accounts on the box. This way, you can count on a consistent, high performing experience even when usage spikes on the primary server.
Who should use a Virtual Private Server?
Virtual dedicated hosting can be used for a wide variety of purposes. With VPS, you have admin access to install and run virtually anything you want on the server.
Virtual private servers are useful to businesses and individuals that run websites that generate a lot of traffic. Sites running complex applications requiring large amounts of bandwidth would benefit from VPS hosting. Our virtual servers feature high performance with large amounts of disk space and bandwidth.
Are GoDaddy Virtual Private Servers configurable?
You bet! Having this feature allows you to change as your site grows. In fact, most upgrades can be done through your account under the My Products section.
For more information, see How do I upgrade or downgrade options on my server?
What if I don’t know how to set up VPS hosting?
That’s not a problem with GoDaddy Support. We have several resources to get you started. GoDaddy Support is loaded with help documentation, support forums, and educational blog posts to point you in the right direction.
Looking for that human touch? During your first 30 days using these services, our Server Concierge is available to help you get your VPS server set up and running fast. And once you’re up and running, our expert support staff is always available 24/7 to answer any questions you might have.
How do I manage my Virtual Private Server?
You can access your VPS using the Hosting Control Center. Simply log in to your GoDaddy account, and then click on Servers. From this menu, you can click Launch next to the VPS server you want to use.
Using the Virtual Dedicated Hosting Manager, you can perform basic server management including account setup, monitoring bandwidth usage, and scheduling server reboots. You can also submit Trouble Tickets for any problems related to your VPS.
You can also install a control panel on your VPS to manage the more advanced features of your server.
For more information, see Comparing Dedicated Hosting Control Panels.
What is Bandwidth Overage Protection?
Bandwidth Overage Protection guards you from overage charges by automatically suspending your account when you exceed the allowed bandwidth for your plan. To reinstate your server, simply purchase additional bandwidth, or wait until the start of the next billing cycle.
Bandwidth Overage Protection cannot be added to an account when it is already over its allotted bandwidth.
If you don’t already have Bandwidth Overage Protection, and an overage occurs, you can suspend your account manually or purchase additional bandwidth to get you through until the next billing cycle.
For more information, see How Do I Add Bandwidth Overage Protection to My Account?
How do I get assistance with my virtual server?
If you need help with your virtual private server, we’re here to assist you 24/7. You can describe the nature of the problem in a Trouble Ticket or launch a live chat session through the Virtual Dedicated Hosting Manager. Or, you can contact our expert hosting support to assist you in the management and maintenance of your virtual Linux or Windows server.