Web servers are what your hosting provider uses to run your websites. Think of it as your “hosting”.
Basically, they are computers like the one you work on. They have a CPU and a hard drive.
The CPU is the brains of the computer. It’s power is determined by its speed and how much memory (brain power) it has.
Disk space determines how much room you have to store your files, images, and programs. Hardware-wise, you have two physical types. The standard hard drive (HD) has been around forever and uses a spinning magnetic disk. The Solid state drive (SD) has no moving parts, so is faster and more dependable.
Stored on the hard drive is the server’s operating system and your files. Think of the operating system as windows. and the other files are your website’s files and software associated with your account, like a cpanel, for example.
Server Options offered by web hosting companies:
Shared hosting: your website shares a physical server with one or more other websites
VPS: Virtual Private Server hosting simulates a dedicated server, even though you are on a shared server. So resources can be allocated to your site as if you were on a dedicated server
Cloud hosting: services are provided by multiple connected servers that comprise a cloud. Boston Web Co. uses a cloud server and it allows us to increase CPUs and disk space when needed.
Dedicated Server: Your website is the only site on the server, so there’s no competition for resources.
There are many web hosts to choose from and the prices run the gamut from under $10/month to hundreds/month. These prices are based on your needs. But remember, you get what you pay for.
The reason for hosting with the Boston Web Co. is that we take care of everything. No calling and waiting on hold forever. We’re just a phone call or email away and have the technical expertise to keep your website running smoothly.
Roger