If you have a standard web hosting package, you will quickly reach the limits of what is possible if you have special requirements that necessitate unusual server configurations. Because most web hosts run the common content management systems such as WordPress, Drupal, Joomla, TYPO3 or MODX Revolution usually run smoothly, but more complex tasks often require access rights that only the administrator has, or simply computing power that cannot be reliably provided in a shared web hosting environment. Now a server would be needed, but for good reason inexperienced people are advised not to administer their own root server. A remedy here can be a so-called managed hosting.
Is there a fixed definition of managed hosting?
Unfortunately, it must be noted that there is no universal definition of what is actually meant by managed hosting. In terms of functionality, it is usually located between web space packages and the V-servers or root servers. However, Managed Hosting is usually much more expensive. Why? Well, in principle the customer gets his own server, but it is largely administered by the web host. So the customer can manage his web space on his own server as usual, but the web host will take care of the underlying technology and the operating system of the server with his expertise.
Advantages of Managed Hosting
The advantage is obvious: performance and range of functions. On a managed server, the customer can more easily make certain changes in the server configuration, such as adapting the php_memory_limit to the CMS or installing certain programs. The choice of web server, for example Apache or nginx, can also have an impact on performance. Furthermore, some web hosters also take over the installation and regular security updates of a CMS. Here it is worthwhile to carefully examine the range of services offered by different providers and to select them according to your own individual requirements.
Why not have your own root server?
Uninitiated newcomers often make the mistake of renting their own server with full root access. Because at first glance, such an offer sounds quite convincing: A lot of performance and storage space at a low price. But when the server is unlocked and can only be configured via a command line, the disillusionment is often just as quick as the server becomes a target for hackers. Server administration is a matter better left to professionals. You don't want your server to be used for Spam is sent or unauthorized access to company data is gained? In short: If you are not familiar with this topic, then you should better leave it alone and resist the temptation to rent a root server quickly.
Simple web space or managed hosting?
If you only want to install a commonplace CMS, for example to manage your personal Blog with WordPressIf you want to set up a website for your company, such as Textpattern or Serendipity, or to maintain a simple Internet presence with Joomla or Drupal, you can confidently do without a managed server. Modern content management systems, which are written in the programming language PHP, are usually well equipped for operation on a web space package. However, companies can definitely benefit from the high performance and the large range of functions of a managed hosting package: For example, a CMS with extensive groupware functionality could be installed here or an own company cloud could be set up with OwnCloud. In any case, managed hosting is a way to get more performance for one's own presence on the Internet and to get access to one's own server even without much prior knowledge in the administration of web servers - only with managed hosting, it is administered by the web hoster.
