Managed hosting – a term which is usually used to describe dedicated hosting packages that also include server administration and technical support.
The key definition to keep in mind is that the host always manages a shared hosting account. With dedicated servers, most hosting providers will offer to manage all the hardware and software on the server (although dedicated hosting services are often unmanaged or just partially managed).
Managed hosting is the ideal solution for users who have lots of traffic to their website. They might be e-commerce or media sites, and they will need their own dedicated server, along with the knowledge to optimize it, so someone who can manage all of that is a godsend if you don’t have the technical know-how yourself!
Managed hosting plans are flexible enough to change according to user needs, so they are easy to upgrade and customize. You can choose which operating system and applications you prefer and configure everything to suit. If you opt for a fully managed hosting service then the hosting company will also handle any upgrades.
The Advantages of Managed Hosting
Fully managed hosting is a lot more expensive than unmanaged, but many site owners opt for it because they think it’s worth it. It’s definitely simpler to go for fully managed hosting instead of hiring professionals to look after your server and websites, and if you ever try to manage everything for yourself, then you will appreciate how much stress and frustration it can save you.
Avoiding technical issues is usually considered to be well worth the higher investment, particularly when your business depends on it. You wouldn’t do without business insurance, so you might want to think of this as “server insurance”.
High quality managed hosting services will include technical support, managed backup, managed databases, troubleshooting, security updates, monitoring, software installations and more. All of the background processes which keep a website running smoothly and securely will be taken care of in the background.