Dedicated server hosting is where the service provider sets up an entire hosting service just for your company. Since the server is used only by one company running on it, the benefits of speed, security and continued support are obvious. Using dedicated servers ensures loading times that are twice as fast because your server is ‘dedicated’ to running your website.

Any company that deems its needs significantly big enough to go for dedicated servers has two options: managed and unmanaged dedicated servers. Unmanaged servers are servers where you are provided with little more than storage space and security. You will have to be responsible for technical issues that are bound to crop up from time to time.

On the other hand,managed dedicated servers are ‘managed’ for you. If you do not have the expertise or time to oversee and manage the running of the server, then, make use of managed hosting services. Everything you need will be there in the package your host offers. The list of services offered by various hosts differs and there are no industry standards when it comes to how much support you will get. Different hosts provide different services and price their services accordingly. However, the most common services include firewall and antivirus, administration, data back-up, security updates, system monitoring and disaster recovery.

Before you choose the right kind of managed dedicated hosting service, it is important to know the service provider, their technical capabilities, knowledge and integrity. Customer loyalty hinges on a reliable website and it is vital for your business that you are up and running at all times. So, what are the features you need to look for?

Installation: Choose a service provider that has the capability to cater to your specific requirements. By doing so, you can enjoy the scalability that your organization requires as you expand and grow.

Guarantees and support: Most reputed hosts offer continuous network and uptime, almost to the extent of 99.99%. Of course, only companies that have a dedicated team of monitoring staff and service personnel can offer this. It is equally important to look for a host who provides 24/7 support, 365 days a year. If your host does not have the ability to provide support as and when you require it, you will have to wait ages before your website issues can be resolved. The ideal web host will have enough software monitoring systems in place to prevent this. You will also have to take into account the time required for hardware replacement. Many companies offer replacements within the hour, with some even promising service within 15 minutes! Downtime and outages, for whatever reason, can affect your web performance and e-business drastically. One way to ensure that your service provider actually does live up to his promise is to go through testimonials, ask for references and visit forums. From these sources, you can get honest reviews and accounts of personal experiences.

Managed dedicated servers can make it easy for you to get your e-business online, with the least amount of time and trouble; at least, that is what every company promises. However, it is up to you to pick the service provider who actually translates these promises into reality.