Virtual Private Server: Definition and Description

A virtual private server (VPS) is a method of partitioning a physical server into multiple servers so that it has the appearance and functionalities of running on its own dedicated machine. A VPS, which can also be called a virtual dedicated server, can run its own operating system and a virtual private server can be independently rebooted.

A VPS is a good bridge between a shared web hosting plan and a fully dedicated server, giving independence from other customers on shared servers, but at a cheaper cost than a physical dedicated server. However compared to a dedicated server,a VPS has limited processor time, RAM, and disk space.

The cost of a VPS ranges from $20/month to $100/month depending on the plan. Many different providers offer VPS services such as Godaddy and 1&1.