|
Data Centre :: What is a Virtual Private Server? |
As modern computers grow in speed, power and resource management, it becomes possible to perform increasingly sophisticated tasks. One such task is the creation of virtual machines, in which a single computer can act as if it is several different computers, all running at the same time.
In normal computer usage, a hard disk can be partitioned into several sections, just as a book can be divided into several chapters. Each hard disk partition can contain a different operating system (Windows, Linux, etc.); this is called a 'dual boot' or multiple boot system. However, a regular dual boot system can only run one operating system at a time. Virtual Private Servers take this concept to the next stage. ALL resources on the physical computer are partitioned (hard disk, processor, memory, network access) in order to create several virtual (simulated) computers which can each be set up with a different operating system. Each virtual computer runs at the same time. Sophisticated resource allocation and protection software ensures that each virtual computer is completely and securely isolated from the others, while still having full access to the physical computer's resources. The Virtual Servers cannot interact with each other, but all share the physical server's resources seamlessly and equally. The table below lists the three levels of VPS available.
| | Virtual Private Server | | | Basic | Consumer | Business | | | | | | Bespoke DMG software installation | optional | optional | optional | Client customisation | Y | Y | Y | Root level access | Y | Y | Y | Control panel | Basic | Basic | Professional | Barebones restore | Up to 2 resets per year | Up to 3 resets per year | Up to 5 resets per year | DialBack CDP | optional | optional | optional | Preconfigured firewall | Y | Y | Y | Sole user of the hardware | N | N | N | IP addresses | 1 | 1 | 1 | Additional IP addresses | optional | optional | optional | RAM available | 256 | 512 | 1024 | Monthly traffic allowance | 20GB | 20GB | 20GB | Hard disk space | 6GB | 12GB | 30GB | | | | | | Express Support | | | | Office hours support | Y | Y | Y | Active service check | optional | optional | optional | Text (SMS) alert system | optional | optional | optional |
|