What happens when you have to find a secure way to share your files on the net and already have a shared hosting site? One solution would be to use the shared server, but this could raise questions about file security and vulnerability. The other option is to use a dedicated server, but this could get costly rather quickly. You could use a VPS, though and get the best of both worlds. In this article, we will explain shared hosting against VPS.
What is shared hosting?
Shared hosting is, just as the name suggests, shared. Your domain and web services are based on a server that many people have access to. This is not to say that they have access to your data (they do not) but rather that they have access to put their information on the server as well. Because the server is shared, it is less costly to operate, and you do not have to pay nearly as much to keep files stored. However, the more people access the server, the slower the pages will load and the higher the probability of a breach.
Shared hosting is typically secure and safe to use as several practices exist, including SSL certificates for new site holders. File sharing is usually safe, and access to files is password protected. However, there are times when clients may wish to have increased security.
How do files get stored on a shared hosting server?
Most platforms, such as Godaddy, HostGator, and AVHoster, have a file storage system within the CPANEL of their site. This is a virtual safe where you can securely add the files needed for your website. In most instances, this is where you would put your pictures, movie files, code files, and other necessary components to your site. You never want to store images directly associated with your site on your desktop, as this is a huge security risk for both you and your target market.
File storage may or may not have its password. Sites such as Godaddy do not have different passwords to the file storage area, requiring only that you are logged in to access the information. While this is good for quick access, others worry about how easily the system can be hacked and information discovered.
How VPS works to secure content better
VPS is an environment within a shared server space that acts as a dedicated server. Much like a VIP pass, the VPN establishes a selected area of the server space, which is dedicated to the person who has purchased that space. It does not work as the shared server because the access and the properties of the VPN do not change, does not allow for anyone who is not the owner to access the information and has its safety and security protocols in place.
What are VPNs best suited for?
Due to the higher levels of security, VPNs are an excellent choice for small to medium businesses and blogs. The increase in performance also makes the VPN a superb choice for those who want live streaming, video, and other content, which would typically cause the site to lag.
Shared hosting sites which generally do better on the standard packages rather than on the VPN platform are blogs and personal sites. Blogs, especially those written using WordPress, do not require you to have a VPN. WordPress already has security measures in place for your content, and so all you need is to find the fastest shared hosting WordPress provider and use the one-click integration feature, and you are good to go. It is advised that when setting up your WordPress site and your shared hosting site, it is recommended not to use the same password. One password should be used to gain access to your WordPress account, and for adding new blog content, another password should be used to access your shared hosting. By doing this, you add a level of extra security on top of that already in place.
Who should avoid VPNs?
VPNs are intended for small to medium-based businesses and personal security options for websites. As such, larger companies shouldn't use the VPN unless they acquire several different VPN options. It may be that a dedicated server will have the better options in these instances.
Conclusion
Shared hosting offers a secure domain and web hosting services for several needs. Those seeking to add to the security of their site may choose to purchase a VPN for their file-sharing. Depending upon your needs, there are various packages you can choose from. VPN, while safer, is not the same as a dedicated server. It just acts as one on a shared hosting site. It is essential that you look at all options before deciding the best VPN, Shared hosting site, and domain name registration service you need.
