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VPS vs Shared Hosting: Which One Is Right for You?

VPS vs Shared Hosting: Which One Is Right for You?

By Micaela A. Micaela A. Verified by Mary P. Mary P.Last updated: January 7, 2025 (0)
Table of contents

Deciding to take the plunge and create a website can be daunting, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the different types of web hosting services on the market. With so many options like shared, dedicated, VPS, and cloud hosting, it can be tricky to decide which one is best for your project.

However, each solution offers something unique, and there isn’t one better than the other. It depends on what you want to achieve. One of the most popular options is VPS hosting, which offers greater control, scalability, and enhanced performance.

VPS vs Shared Hosting: Which One Is Right for You?

In contrast, shared hosting provides a more entry-level solution for businesses and individuals who don’t need as much control over their websites. Although both options are great for hosting multiple websites, the different resources, performance, and security measures set them apart.

VPS hosting

VPS hosting is similar to dedicated hosting as it offers scalable resources but costs much less. It’s a type of web hosting that provides a virtual environment for people to host websites or development projects without having to purchase a physical server.

Each virtual server has access to its own operating system and resources, making VPS hosting faster and highly versatile. Generally speaking, it’s one of the most secure hosting options out there. Since it offers full root access, users can customize advanced security settings to protect a virtual server against malicious attacks. Web hosts like ScalaHosting provide additional security measures like built-in firewalls and brute force protection that combats pesky cyberattacks.

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Scalable and easy to manage, VPS hosting is perfect for users who prefer to initially subscribe to low-end plans and upgrade to more resources when the traffic on their website increases. However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows, as VPS hosting does have its drawbacks.

It’s more expensive than shared hosting, which can be a deal breaker for people with a tight budget. Having said that, it’s still worth the price since users are paying for a dedicated environment supported by cutting-edge technology.

Another catch in VPS hosting is that technical knowledge is required to carry out the initial setup process and provide support for ongoing virtual server maintenance. Still, VPS hosting is the preferred choice for developers and gamers.

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Shared hosting

Shared hosting is one of the most affordable options for people who don’t need all the bells and whistles that come with VPS hosting. It’s a typical solution that’s reliable enough to host multiple websites on a single server and offers a dedicated control panel with tools for managing and administering websites.

Unlike in VPS hosting, technical skills are not required to set up a server, and users only need to understand the basics of web development. Providers further simplify shared hosting for their users by offering hassle-free website migrations and round-the-clock technical support at no additional cost.

Since all users share the costs of resources and server maintenance, shared hosting is more economical than any other hosting service. It’s straightforward enough for people to manage independently, and companies usually offer additional support resources like knowledgebases and tutorials that guide users when disaster strikes.

But, unlike VPS hosting, shared hosting lacks security as all websites are stored in the same directory on the same server. This means it’s more vulnerable to threats like Structured Query Language (SQL) injection and Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks.

What’s more, high-traffic sites suffer from performance issues like longer loading times and frequent crashes due to limited resources. That said, shared hosting is still a great option for small websites and blogs.

Bottom line

When deciding between VPS hosting and shared hosting, it’s important to consider your hosting needs and budget. While VPS hosting is beneficial for people who want complete control and flexibility, shared hosting is an affordable alternative that’s far more manageable.

VPS hosting is suitable for a wide variety of web development projects like ecommerce websites, game servers, application servers, and virtual private networks (VPNs). However, shared hosting is ideal for low-traffic websites that leverage popular content management systems (CMS) like WordPress and Joomla.

Whatever hosting option you choose, it’s a good idea to check out web hosting services that offer both VPS hosting and shared hosting for reasonable prices. Additionally, look for ways to try out the service risk free, either by taking advantage of a free trial or money-back guarantee.


Best VPS hosting of 2025

Editors' choice
IONOS VPS logo
Editor's rating:
(4)
Affordable
Linux and Windows servers
Full root access
Different server locations
Beginners
DreamHost VPS logo
Editor's rating:
(4)
Unlimited bandwidth
Automated backups
One-click WordPress installation
Webmail included
Advanced users
HostArmada VPS logo
Editor's rating:
(4)
Full root access
User-friendly
Data centers worldwide
Unlimited email accounts
Customization
Ultahost logo
Editor's rating:
(4)
Fully customizable control panel
Easy scalability
Robust security
Daily backups
Managed hosting
SPanel logo
Editor's rating:
(4.5)
Fully managed hosting control panel
Panel customization
Excellent security
Daily backups
WordPress
WP Engine logo
Editor's rating:
(4.5)
SSL certificate
Automated daily backups
Malware scans
Responsive customer support
Low price
Hostinger VPS logo
Editor's rating:
(4)
Affordable VPS hosting
24/7 customer support
Responsive control panel
99% server uptime

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