Mar 17, 2016 : Colocation vs. Shared Hosting Services

📅 March 17, 2016 - Colocation refers to the practice of operating servers and other network connectivity systems through a remote data center.

Shared Hosting Services refers to a system in which multiple clients share space and resources on a single server. This single server has been specifically designed to host multiple accounts at the same time.

For those unfamiliar with IT vocabulary and advancements, the differences between colocation and shared hosting services can go unnoticed. While similar, there are a number of key differences. The most basic difference is ownership of hardware and software. With a shared hosting service, the client is not in ownership of any of the hardware associated with their infrastructure.

In a colocation center, the client purchases and owns the hardware and software associated with their IT infrastructure. While clients enjoy the privileges associated with full ownership, they are also responsible for setting up and configuring all infrastructure hardware and software.

For further clarification, we will provide a complete list of the advantages and disadvantages of each option.

Colocation – Advantages and Disadvantages:

Advantages:
Clients own all hardware and software associated with their network.
Clients are provided with space in the colocation provider's data cabinet, power for all equipment, IP addresses to use and an uplink port.
24/7 access to your network through 24/7 colocation center staffing.
Basic tech support for clients.
Clients are provided top tier security that is managed through the colocation center.

Disadvantages:
Clients are responsible for installing, monitoring and updating all hardware and software applications within their infrastructure.
Responsible for the upkeep of all equipment.
Increased cost for clients. Clients are required to buy their server and software.

Shared Hosting – Advantages and Disadvantages:

Advantages:
Generally speaking, shared hosting services are less expensive than colocation services
Clients are relieved of the responsibility of maintaining and upgrading the server. Technical assistance is provided – without additional cost – 24 hours a day. Clients are not required to perform technical maintenance.
Clients are provided with a user friendly, web based control panels. Clients can easily set up email, install applications and navigate their server without expertise.

Disadvantages:
Resources are limited due to the shared nature of the system's resources.
Many times clients are unable to install needed modules and programs that are required to run a client's website and scripts.
Clients are required to adhere to restrictions on services.
Decreased security capabilities and increased vulnerability to hacking,

Which Is Best For Your Company?

Both colocation server hosting and shared hosting services offer a number of compelling advantages for businesses. Determining whether colocation or shared hosting is best for your company depends on a number of factors. These factors include long term business goals, solution complexity and the number of servers required to operate your business effectively. A company's choice will likely depend on how much they are willing to spend and how much control over their server's infrastructure is important to their business.

To learn more about colocation and shared hosting, speak with an expert to assess your business's IT infrastructure needs. A trained expert can walk you through assessing the infrastructure needs of your business while determining where your priorities lay and which system is most in line with what your business needs today, while helping you plan for the future.