1.
What Is a VPS?
Many concepts such as internet service providers, servers, IP addresses, DNS, ADSL, and fiber have become familiar parts of our lives with the widespread adoption of the internet. But among these, what does VPS mean? This abbreviation, formed from the initials of “Virtual Private Server,” is translated into Turkish as “Sanal Özel Sunucu.” By continuing to read, you can find answers to questions such as what is a VPS, what it does, what types it has, who it is suitable for, who it does not benefit, and how it differs from other server options.
The question what is a Virtual Private Server can be answered in the simplest terms as a physical server being partitioned into multiple isolated virtual server instances through a virtualization layer. With resource quotas and isolation mechanisms defined under a VPS service plan—translated into Turkish as a virtual private server—it offers more predictable resource consumption compared to shared hosting. In a VPS architecture, each virtual server independently uses resources such as an operating system, storage space, and memory. As a result, even if multiple users reside on the same physical server, resource isolation significantly reduces the risk of being impacted by other users’ load fluctuations. Therefore, VPS solutions are frequently preferred for projects that require more control, flexibility, and performance.
Core VPS Features
- Partitioning a physical server into multiple isolated, independent servers through virtualization technology enables each user to utilize their own virtual server space independently.
- Because dedicated CPU, memory, and storage resources are allocated to each user, performance is more stable than in shared systems.
- Providing more predictable performance compared to shared hosting reduces the risk of the site being impacted during sudden traffic spikes.
- Greater control over operating system and software configurations enables customization based on technical requirements.
- Within the capabilities offered by the service plan and the virtualization stack, resources such as CPU/RAM/disk can be scaled, making it easier to manage capacity quickly for growing projects.
- Offering a suitable infrastructure for mid- to high-traffic websites and applications makes VPS solutions ideal for professional projects. By the way, if you would like to procure your IT infrastructure resources for your workloads in a fully managed manner via GlassHouse Cloud, you can review our Infrastructure as a Service page.
2.
VPS Types
VPS is generally examined in two categories: Managed Virtual Private Server and Unmanaged Virtual Private Server. Below, you can see detailed explanations of both.
Managed VPS
In this virtual private server type, your VPS is managed by the service provider rather than by you. In a managed VPS, infrastructure and server administration (OS updates, monitoring, basic hardening, etc.) are handled by the provider, while responsibilities related to the application layer and data may remain with the customer depending on scope and SLA. As a result, Managed VPS reduces operational workload; however, a baseline level of technical awareness and correct configuration may still be required depending on application/service requirements. Because it is operated by a service provider, Managed VPS options are generally more expensive than the alternative, but they also provide a much smoother experience.
Unmanaged VPS
Unmanaged VPS options, on the other hand, require your direct control. You must have sufficient technical expertise to manage the environment and address issues that arise along the way. The greatest benefit of Unmanaged VPS is that it is significantly more cost-effective compared to the other option. However, in an Unmanaged VPS model, backup/restore, patching, and security configurations are largely your responsibility; the provider typically operates the physical infrastructure and virtualization layer.
Managed VPS vs. Unmanaged VPS Comparison
| Feature |
Managed VPS |
Unmanaged VPS |
| Security |
Security configurations, updates, and baseline protection measures are managed by the service provider. |
Most security controls (OS/service configuration, access policies, patch management, etc.) are the customer’s responsibility; the provider typically operates the physical infrastructure and virtualization layer. |
| Cost |
Since management and support services are included, the cost is generally higher. |
Because no management service is provided, it is a lower-cost option. |
| Ease of Use |
It can be used and managed easily without requiring technical expertise. |
It requires server administration knowledge and can be challenging for users without technical experience. |
| Customization |
It offers customization within certain limits. |
Because it provides full control over the server, a high level of customization is possible. |
| Security Support |
Security monitoring, updates, and response processes are supported by the provider. |
Identifying and resolving security issues is entirely the user’s responsibility. |
3.
Who Is a VPS Suitable For?
Because a VPS provides an isolated virtual server environment capable of running the operating system and services required to host web applications (web server, database, application components, etc.), it is a widely used infrastructure option for digital projects. For this reason, when shared hosting falls short in terms of performance, VPS stands out as a stronger alternative. VPS solutions are suitable for those who manage mid- to high-traffic websites, work on growing projects, and want greater control over server resources. In addition, software developers and teams using applications that require custom configurations can also benefit efficiently from VPS infrastructure.
4.
Who Is a VPS Not Suitable For?
Since using a VPS requires technical knowledge, it may not always be an ideal option for users who manage basic websites or do not want to deal with server administration. For low-traffic, simple-structure websites, shared hosting solutions are often sufficient. Additionally, users who do not want to handle server security, updates, and maintenance processes may be able to meet their needs more easily with managed services or simpler hosting solutions.
5.
What Is the Difference Between a VPS and Shared Hosting?
For users wondering what a VPS is used for, understanding the differences between VPS and shared hosting is quite important. In shared hosting solutions, a server’s resources are used collectively by multiple users, whereas VPS systems allocate dedicated resources to each user. This creates clear differences between the two solutions in terms of performance, control, and flexibility. You can see a brief list below.
- In shared hosting, server resources are shared among all users, whereas in a VPS, resources are allocated specifically to the user.
- VPS solutions provide more stable and predictable performance compared to shared hosting.
- In shared hosting systems, control over server settings is limited, while a VPS offers broader configuration capabilities.
- Shared hosting may be sufficient for low-traffic and simple websites, while VPS is a more suitable option for growing projects.
6.
What Is the Difference Between a VPS and a VDS?
After what is a VPS and how is it used, differences between VPS and VDS are also frequently asked. While both solutions are based on virtual server architectures, there are important differences in how resources are allocated and the level of performance they provide. These differences help you choose the right infrastructure depending on the use case. Specifically:
- “VDS” (Virtual Dedicated Server) may be a provider-specific marketing term; it typically emphasizes tighter resource allocation/isolation compared to VPS, but the underlying architecture and guaranteed resources depend on the provider’s definition.
- VDS systems deliver higher and more consistent performance than VPS.
- While VPS may be sufficient for mid-scale projects, VDS is preferred for applications that require more intensive resources.
- VDS solutions are generally more expensive than VPS.
- When a provider defines stricter resource allocation and isolation policies, performance fluctuations may decrease; this depends on the guaranteed resources of the selected plan and the infrastructure design.
7.
Using VPS Together with Cloud Infrastructures
When considered alongside cloud-based systems, VPS solutions stand out as a key component of flexible and scalable infrastructures. While cloud-native architectures enable resources to be managed dynamically based on demand, VPS delivers a more controlled and customizable server experience within that structure. Particularly for applications with specific performance requirements, VPS solutions running on cloud infrastructure provide a balanced alternative in terms of flexibility and resource management. In this way, users can retain the accessibility benefits of the cloud without sacrificing server-level control.
You may also find our article titled What Are Hosting Types? Hosting Options interesting.
