Managed hosting is a type of Internet hosting in which the client leases an entire server that is not shared with anyone else. The service provider leases a dedicated server and associated hardware to a single client.
The main difference between managed hosting and other dedicated hosting services is that the equipment, usually lodged at the service provider's facility, is largely managed by the service provider. The service provider administers the hardware, operating systems and system software. Usually, the hosting provider is responsible for setting up and configuring hardware, installing and configuring software, technical support, patch management, system maintenance, monitoring and updates. Although the client usually has administrative access, as a rule, he rarely uses it, interacting rather with the leased system through a Web-based interface.
Managed hosting has a variety of benefits. Some of them include:
As the service provider usually manages the entire system, clients don't have to worry about the details of managing the platform. Such services as the network performance and availability are normally guaranteed by the network provider. This also means that for a startup company, a major IT solution can be up and running without hiring more staff and without any significant capital expenditure involved. Again, the client does not have to worry about managing vendor relationships for standard hardware and software, as the vendor handles this. Moreover, when the equipment breaks or needs repairs or maintenance, the client usually doesn't incur additional charges.
In the event that new enterprise-level equipment is installed, the client does not need to spend time and energy to understand and manage the new hardware. Further, it is easier to deploy new platforms more quickly, as there is no longer the need to validate new equipment when introducing hardware into your network.
Managed hosting solutions are usually client-specific. The client gets a specialized solution to meet the particular needs of his company. For a company with a significant IT staff organization with many different business units and lots of technologies to support, being able to use a more customized managed hosting solution to match up to a set of specific needs makes work much easier.
Again, it is easier for the client to accelerate global expansion through a managed hosting provider with a global footprint rather than building data centers in-house and having to manage employees and third-party.
Finally, there is always a live person on the phone when you need support, and the client always get alerts or a prompt phone call when something comes up. Thus the client is ever kept in the picture. In addition, he always gets monitoring capabilities for his configurations.
Where to find managed hosting
Various companies offer managed hosting. You can also find a vender online. However, managed hosting services vary with company policy. If you are looking for one, always be sure to find the best.
Managed hosting has several benefits, among which are cost and time efficiency as well as ease of work. The service provider always takes care of system management and the client does not have the problem of maintenance.
Beaman T. Dillan is the author of this article on Colotraq. Find more information, about Services here.
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