Virtual Hosting the perfect option to sites that have outgrown
shared hosting.
When a host computer runs multiple web servers simultaneously it
is known as "virtual" hosting. This system relies on virtual DNS
resolution which permits specific domain names to be assigned to
each web server. So, a single computer can then host many
independent web sites. Virtual web hosting is either name based
or IP based and allows a great degree of manageability,
efficiency, and scalability of the infrastructure.
When a web site has outgrown in many ways its hosting solution
then the most workable option is "virtual" web hosting. This is
cost efficient as compared to setting up your own dedicated
server.
In "virtual" hosting, resources are not shared with other web
sites. Each website is assigned fixed amounts of available
resources. So, a single site cannot utilize disproportionately
all the resources.
Each website has its own operating system on the "virtual"
hosting server with an isolated segment of disk space and in
some cases specific hard drives on the server. So, crashes or
technical problems encountered by other sites on the host server
will not affect your site. Using this system you the website
owner can install changes in the operating system and customize
your web pages.
* Do your research well and find the near to perfect virtual
host. Be sure to check referrals and blogs as well as forums for
complaints.
* Read all the fine print thoroughly and ask any questions you
may have before signing up. Most virtual hosting providers offer
back ups of your site, technical support, e-mail addresses, a
web based GUI for you to manage your settings, and a e-commerce
path that will allow shopping carts and customer support as well
as loyalty programs.
* Once terms and conditions are agreed upon, the hosting company
will give you a login name and password, an IP address for your
site, and the name of the "private directory" that is assigned
to you. This is where you will upload your pages.
* Register your domain name and be sure to ensure that the DNS
record specifies the DNS server of the virtual hosting company.
If your site is already registered then complete the required
formalities to change the DNS records with your registrar.
* Upload the pages to the virtual hosting directory.
* Test the site after 3-4 days using the IP address. Once the
DNS propagates across the web you will be able to access your
site using its domain.
Virtual hosting works because with the popularity of the web
there exist, a bouquet of customers that need a common set of
web services and technical support. So, a company that can
efficiently package together several solutions which can be used
by a great number of customers becomes profitable as well as
popular. They offer websites an economy of costs as well as the
advantage of a degree of independence.
Virtual hosting will cost around US$ 35-US$ 99 per month and
more. This is much lower than the costs of running a dedicated
server and therefore the ideal choice for a small to mid sized
web site that has outgrown shared hosting.