However, we would also like to note the differences between managed and unmanaged dedicated servers. Picking one over the other can significantly impact operations. 

This blog aims to focus on the disparities between managed and unmanaged dedicated servers. We intend to empower readers to make informed choices tailored to their needs.

Without further delay, let’s get into it!

What are Dedicated Servers?

Dedicated servers offer unparalleled performance and reliability. They serve as the backbone of numerous online ventures. These servers provide exclusive access to resources. They ensure optimal performance for applications, websites, and platforms. 

Dedicated servers provide complete control over server configuration and resources. This way, businesses can tailor the environment to meet their unique requirements. This then fosters more efficiency and scalability.

Dedicated servers also offer various operating systems, such as Linux and Windows. This provides flexibility to accommodate different requirements. With instant dedicated servers, businesses can quickly deploy and scale their infrastructure. This way, they can meet changing demands, and ensure maximum availability and performance.

Moreover, dedicated servers are available in different configurations. That includes bare metal servers and virtual private servers (VPS). These are tailored to specific workload needs. 

Businesses can choose the hardware that best suits their requirements. It can be Intel dedicated servers for high-performance computing. Or it can be servers with multiple CPU cores for intensive applications.

In addition to performance and control, dedicated servers offer robust security measures. These include free DDoS protection and proactive monitoring to safeguard against potential threats. 

Type of Dedicated Servers

These servers come in two main types: managed and unmanaged dedicated servers. In managed dedicated server hosting, the hosting provider manages server tasks. Those include server configuration, software installation, and security measures. This allows businesses to focus on their core objectives.

Meanwhile, unmanaged dedicated server hosting grants users full control over the server environment. This includes root access and customizing server configurations according to their preferences. 

While offering complete control, unmanaged dedicated servers require technical expertise. Specifically for server maintenance, software updates, and security protocols. This option is suitable for businesses with in-house technical knowledge. Or for those seeking maximum control over their server environment.

Get an Exclusive Plan for AIT’s Dedicated Servers

AIT’s dedicated servers offer unmatched performance and reliability. We cater to all your web hosting needs efficiently. With AIT, you gain access to high-performance servers designed for maximum uptime. 

Our managed dedicated server hosting simplifies complex server management tasks. It is ideal for businesses seeking hassle-free server management.

AIT’s dedicated hosting comes with security measures to safeguard your data against attacks. We ensure your dedicated server is up and running instantly. Quick deployment means your business experiences no downtime.

Technical support from AIT is unparalleled and available round the clock. Our team is here to resolve any technical issues swiftly. Hence, AIT is the best option if you are looking for reliable and efficient dedicated servers.

What are Managed Dedicated Servers?

In managed dedicated servers, the hosting provider assumes the responsibility for server management. This service model is designed for businesses seeking a powerful online presence and being free from the complexities of server administration. 

With managed dedicated server hosting, clients receive a package. This includes the physical server and a comprehensive management of the server environment. It ranges from software installations and updates to security protocols and performance optimization.

The Essence of Managed Dedicated Servers

In managed dedicated server hosting lies the promise of hassle-free server management. This includes the deployment of operating systems and technical support for server configuration. It also ensures the server’s performance meets the high expectations of businesses today. 

Managed hosting providers, like AIT, offer dedicated servers equipped with high-performance processors. They make sure server resources are robust enough to handle any demand.

Accessibility and Ease of Use

One of the primary advantages of managed dedicated servers is their accessibility. Businesses with limited technical expertise find managed servers particularly appealing. This is because it allows them to focus on their core operations, while leaving the technicalities of server management in capable hands. 

Comprehensive Support

Managed dedicated server hosting encompasses a wide range of support services. Providers offer monitoring of the server environment to ensure maximum availability and performance. 

This support covers everything from ensuring software is up-to-date to security against vulnerabilities. This is to optimize server performance for the specific needs of the client’s applications. 

Additionally, managed hosting often includes data protection measures and DDoS protection. This is to safeguard the business’ online assets against threats.

Focusing on Core Business Operations

Managed dedicated servers shift the technical responsibilities to the hosting provider. This allows businesses to allocate more resources and attention to their primary objectives. 

They can focus more on developing new products, enhancing services, or expanding market reach. Companies can pursue growth strategies more effectively. That’s because they are not being bogged down by technical server management tasks.

Potential Drawbacks

Managed dedicated servers come at a higher cost compared to unmanaged dedicated servers. Businesses should consider weighing the value of managed services against their budget constraints. 

Additionally, some clients may find managed dedicated servers very limited. This is because they have reduced control over server configurations and management. This is especially if they have specific and custom requirements. 

What are Unmanaged Dedicated Servers?

Unmanaged dedicated servers offer a unique blend of autonomy and performance. These servers give users full root access. Therefore, they have complete control over the server environment, that is from operating system selection to server configuration. 

Key Benefits

Unmanaged dedicated hosting users can tap into high-performance servers at an affordable price. They benefit from the raw power of Intel Xeon processors and high-performance hardware. This is essential for applications demanding maximum availability and performance. 

Furthermore, users can optimize their server’s performance to meet their specific needs. This ensures that resources are allocated efficiently across multiple websites or applications.

The cost-effectiveness of unmanaged dedicated server hosting is a significant advantage. Unmanaged dedicated server providers can offer these servers at a more affordable price. This is because they do not need to invest in technical support for server management tasks. The pricing model makes it a highly scalable solution for businesses poised for growth.

Potential Drawbacks 

However, the freedom comes with the responsibility of managing every aspect of the server. This includes security measures like DDoS protection and software updates. 

This requirement for technical expertise can be a hurdle for businesses without a dedicated IT team. It also requires more time investment from users of unmanaged dedicated hosting. This means users must proactively monitor and maintain their servers to prevent downtime.

Moreover, users are on their own when technical issues arise. Resolving complex server management tasks or unforeseen technical challenges can be daunting. 

Comparing Managed and Unmanaged Dedicated Servers: What is the Better Option?

Deciding between managed and unmanaged dedicated servers hinges on several factors: 

• The technical capabilities of the user or team
• The budget allocated for web hosting
• The business’s specific needs and priorities.

Managed servers are best for businesses seeking a worry-free hosting solution. Those that allow them to focus on core operations.

Inversely, unmanaged servers suit those with technical knowledge to manage a server environment. They are good for those who require full control over their hosting setup.

Here are some detailed comparison points for the two:

1. Server Management and Maintenance

Managed dedicated servers ensure hassle-free server management. It relieves users from technical tasks. 

Unmanaged dedicated servers require users to possess technical expertise for server management tasks. This makes them ideal for those with the necessary know-how.

2. Technical Support and Assistance

Managed dedicated server hosting provides comprehensive technical support. This covers everything: from server configuration issues to troubleshooting. 

In contrast, unmanaged dedicated server hosting must rely on their technical knowledge. They may however seek external help, as the hosting provider offers minimal assistance.

3. Customization and Control

Unmanaged dedicated servers offer full root access. This grants users complete control over server configuration and the installation of custom scripts and software. 

Managed dedicated servers limit the level of customization available to the user. However, it provides a secure and optimized server environment.

4. Security and Software Updates

Managed dedicated server hosting typically includes the following:

• proactive monitoring
• regular software updates
• robust security measures to protect against threats like DDoS attacks

However, unmanaged dedicated server users must undertake these critical tasks themselves. It would require a solid understanding of security protocols and software management.

5. Server Configuration and Setup

With managed dedicated hosting, the hosting provider takes care of initial server setup. They will ensure the operating system and control panels are correctly configured for optimal performance. 

In contrast, unmanaged dedicated hosting users need to configure their server environment from scratch. This demands a deeper level of technical involvement.

6. Operating System and Software Installation

Managed servers typically come with a pre-installed operating system, as well as the option for managed software installations. This simplifies the process for users without technical expertise.

Unmanaged servers provide the freedom to install and run any operating system and software. Hence, it is appealing to those with specific requirements.

7. Cost Considerations

Unmanaged dedicated servers are a cost-effective solution for technically skilled users. It offers high performance at an affordable price. 

Managed dedicated servers are oftentimes more expensive. However, they justify their pricing through comprehensive support, security, and maintenance services.

8. Performance and Monitoring

Managed hosting services ensure server performance is optimized and maintained. This is because hosting providers offer scalable resources to meet demand. 

Unmanaged hosting demands that users monitor their server’s performance closely. They need to be able to adjust resources manually to handle varying loads.

9. Scalability and Flexibility

Managed dedicated servers offer easily scalable solutions. This allows businesses to adjust resources without technical hurdles. 

Unmanaged servers offer more flexibility in server configuration. Having said that, it requires users to manage scalability manually. This can be complex and time-consuming for businesses.

10. Responsibility for Data Protection and Backup

Data protection and regular backups are integral to managed dedicated hosting services. They provide peace of mind for businesses about their data’s safety. 

In contrast, unmanaged dedicated servers require a proactive approach to data security. Users are responsible for implementing their data protection measures and backup solutions.

Final Word

Choosing between managed and unmanaged dedicated servers depends on various factors. Consider your technical expertise, budget, and business needs carefully. Managed servers offer hassle-free management and support but come at a higher cost. Unmanaged servers provide full control and cost savings but demand technical proficiency.

AIT provides reliable and high-performance dedicated servers tailored to your needs. Contact us today to learn more and make the right choice for your business!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are dedicated servers?

Dedicated servers are exclusive resources providing high performance and reliability for web hosting.

2. What is the difference between managed and unmanaged dedicated servers?

Managed servers offer hassle-free server management by the hosting provider, while unmanaged servers require users to handle all management tasks independently.

3. What is the benefit of managed dedicated server hosting?

Managed hosting ensures hassle-free server management and comprehensive technical support from the hosting provider.

4. What is the benefit of unmanaged dedicated servers?

Unmanaged servers provide full control and customization options, appealing to users with technical expertise.

5. What kind of support can I expect with managed dedicated servers?

Managed dedicated servers offer technical support for setup, configuration, and troubleshooting.

6. Do unmanaged dedicated servers offer technical support?

Unmanaged servers typically do not include technical support from the hosting provider, requiring users to rely on their expertise or seek external help.

7. Can I customize my server configuration with managed dedicated hosting?

Managed hosting may offer limited customization options compared to unmanaged servers, ensuring stability and security.

8. What level of technical expertise is required for unmanaged dedicated servers?

Unmanaged servers demand significant technical knowledge for server management tasks, including software installation, maintenance, and security measures.

9. Are managed dedicated servers more expensive than unmanaged servers?

Yes, managed servers generally come at a higher cost due to the added value of comprehensive support and management services.

10. Which option is better for businesses focusing on core operations?

Managed dedicated server hosting is preferable for businesses looking for hassle-free server management, allowing them to concentrate on their core activities.

Zimbra is an easy to use piece of unified collaboration software, specifically focused on email and file sharing. Being one of the best free, open source collaboration software available, Zimbra includes email, calendaring, file sharing, activity streams, social communities and more. Zimbra comes in two different forms: a free open source edition and a paid version.

Installing Zimbra Collaboration Open Source Editiions

Zimbra runs on several different distributions of Linux, but in this FAQ, we will be specifically installing it on CentOS 6. Please ensure that you select the proper dedicated server or cloud server that fits the requirements of the software. The system requirements are:

• A CPU of 1.5GHz or better.
• 4GB of memory/RAM or better.
• 5GB free space for software and logs.
• Additional disk space for mail storage (recommended 100GB or more).

When giving your cloud or dedicated server a hostname, you’ll need to include a full FQDN (i.e. mail.yourdomain.com), including the domain and tld. Next, login via SSH with PuTTY.

Update the Operating System

yum update –y

Install Pre-requisites

yum install -y gmp libidn wget nano make nc sudo sysstat libtool-ltdl glibc perl ntp libaio

Disable postfix If Operational

service postfix status

If postfix is running, we’ll need to disable it:

service postfix stop && chkconfig postfix off

Setup and Configure DNS

Zimbra includes a mail server system, which requires a FQDN (Fully Qualified Domain Name), meaning that we must configure the DNS for our domain name for use in Zimbra. There’s a few different ways of achieving this.

The easiest method is to use the AIT’s DNS management option in the “Domain Registration” tab of the My Account interface. More on that is listed here.

Alternatively, you can add the A and MX records to your own DNS server that you may have in another location. But be aware, this can cause your installation to fail if not done properly.

Download Zimbra Open Source Software

Proceed here. Download the software that is needed for your operating system and version you specify.

mkdir zcsinstall

cd zcsinstall

wget (url to the software you selected above)

Example:

wget `http://files2.zimbra.com/downloads/8.5.0_GA/zcs-8.5.0_GA_3042.RHEL6_64.20140828192005.tgz`

/etc/hosts File Updates

The Zimbra installer is very particular about DNS and local names in the /etc/hosts file. Thus, you may need to update your `/etc/hosts` to reflect the information it’s looking for.

`vim /etc/hosts`

You will see something like this. Add the bottom line with the proper IP address, hostname and local alias.

127.0.0.1 localhost localhost.localdomain

::1 localhost ip6-localhost ip6-loopback

216.117.191.100 mail.example.com mail

Unpacking And Installing Zimbra

tar zxvf zcs-*.tgz

Change directory into the folder that the files were extracted into:

cd zcs-*

Finally, begin the software installation process.

./install.sh –platform-override

You will be prompted about the license. Click “Y” at each license prompt. When you reach the “select packages to install” section, simply press enter at each of the options which will select the default value.

You may get the following error during installation:

DNS ERROR resolving MX for mail.example.com

It is suggested that the domain name have an MX record configured in DNS

Change domain name? No

If you get a port conflict error, you may need to exit the installer and resolve the issue before continuing.

Set Admin password

This main menu will appear when all the pre-requisite checks are done. Select the option number for the zimbra-store, which shows the Admin password field as UNSET.

Main menu

1) Common Configuration:

2) zimbra-ldap: Enabled

3) zimbra-logger: Enabled

4) zimbra-mta: Enabled

5) zimbra-dnscache: Enabled

6) zimbra-snmp: Enabled

7) zimbra-store: Enabled

+Create Admin User: yes

+Admin user to create: admin@mail.example.com

******* +Admin Password UNSET

+Anti-virus quarantine user: virus-quarantine.4wxbcdanc2@mail.example.com

+Enable automated spam training: yes

+Spam training user: spam.lf5atsuxy@mail.example.com

+Non-spam(Ham) training user: ham.swfxf0szl@mail.example.com

+SMTP host: zimbrademo.website-dev.ait.tools

+Web server HTTP port: 8080

+Web server HTTPS port: 8443

+Web server mode: https

+IMAP server port: 7143

+IMAP server SSL port: 7993

+POP server port: 7110

+POP server SSL port: 7995

+Use spell check server: yes

+Spell server URL: http://mail.example.com:7780/aspell.php

+Enable version update checks: TRUE

+Enable version update notifications: TRUE

+Version update notification email: admin@mail.example.com

+Version update source email: admin@mail.example.com

+Install mailstore (service webapp): yes

+Install UI (zimbra,zimbraAdmin webapps): yes

8) zimbra-spell: Enabled

9) zimbra-proxy: Enabled

10) Default Class of Service Configuration:

s) Save config to file

x) Expand menu

q) Quit

Address unconfigured (**) items (? – help)

Select, or ‘r’ for previous menu 7Create admin user: admin@mail.example.com

Password for admin@mail.example.com (min 6 characters):

Set Time Zone

Next, set the time zone for the installation. Go back to the main menu and select 1 for the Common Configuration.

Select, or ‘r’ for previous menu r

Then, choose 1 to go to the common configuration section.

*** CONFIGURATION COMPLETE – press ‘a’ to apply

Select from menu, or press ‘a’ to apply config (? – help) 1

After this, choose 6 to edit the time zone.

Select, or ‘r’ for previous menu 6

Here, you should choose the number relative to the time zone you’re in. For example, you could type 26 to get the America/New_York time zone.

Enter the number for the local timezone: 26

Finalize Installation

Once complete, the installation will apply everything you’ve entered, download the needed packages and install them. You will be asked if it is ok to save the configuration data and to modify the system. The default on the save configuration is yes, but the default on the modify system is no. Thus, you must type Yes to proceed.

Select, or ‘r’ for previous menu r

*** CONFIGURATION COMPLETE – press ‘a’ to apply

Select from menu, or press ‘a’ to apply config (? – help) a

Save configuration data to a file? yes

Save config in file: /root/zimbra-installation.txt

Saving config in /root/zimbra-installation.txt…done.

The system will be modified – continue? yes

Lastly, reboot your dedicated or cloud server to ensure all services are deactivated that need to be, and the ones that need to start will start on boot up.

The Zimbra Admin Control Panel

The admin interface can be accessed by visiting something like: https://mail.example.com:7071/

Note that this is “https” not standard “http” and also the port number of 7071, which could have been changed during installation, but is the default.

• openssh-clients : The OpenSSH client applications
• openssh-server : The OpenSSH server daemon

OpenSSH Installations under CentOS Linux

To install the server and client type:

# yum -y install openssh-server openssh-clients

Start the service:

# chkconfig sshd on

# service sshd start

Make sure port 22 is opened: # netstat -tulpn | grep :22

Firewall Settings

Edit /etc/sysconfig/iptables (IPv4 firewall).

# vi /etc/sysconfig/iptables

Add the line

-A RH-Firewall-1-INPUT -m state –state NEW -m tcp -p tcp –dport 22 -j ACCEPT

If you want to restict access to 192.168.1.0/24, edit it as follows:

-A RH-Firewall-1-INPUT -s 192.168.1.0/24 -m state –state NEW -p tcp –dport 22 -j ACCEPT

If your site uses IPv6, and you are editing ip6tables, use the line:

-A RH-Firewall-1-INPUT -m tcp -p tcp –dport 22 -j ACCEPT

Save and close the file. Restart iptables:

# service iptables restart

OpenSSH Server Configuration

Edit `/etc/ssh/sshd_config`, enter:

# `vi /etc/ssh/sshd_config`

To disable root logins, edit or add as follows:

PermitRootLogin no

Restrict login to user tom and jerry only over ssh:

AllowUsers tom jerry

Change ssh port i.e. run it on a non-standard port like 1235

Port 1235

Save and close the file. Restart sshd:

# service sshd restart

Modifying your hosts file will allow you to override the DNS for a domain on that particular machine. To give you an example, if you are moving your hosting from another provider to AIT, and have uploaded your data and you want to test the site before making the name server changes, you can modify your hosts file to point the site to your new IP at AIT. This type of modification can be used to test your sites prior to going live, verify SSL installations, verify a site works prior to DNS changes, or for other DNS related reasons. This causes your local machine only to look directly at the IP specified.

How do I edit the hosts file on a Linux Machine?

Editing the hosts file is easy. Follow the steps below.

• Open a terminal window.
• Open the hosts file in a text editor (you can substitute any text editor):

sudo `vi /etc/hosts`

1. Enter your password.
2. Make the necessary changes to the hosts file.
3. Press + (hold shift and hit :), then type wq to save the changes.

1. Create the user on the server using the adduser command.
2. Once the user is created, change the home directory in the `/etc/passwd` file. An example is below showing the home directory for each (see the 6th column in this example).
3. user1:x:1217:1218::/home/user1:/bin/bash
4. user2:x:1218:1219::/home/user2:/bin/bash
5. user3:x:1219:1220::/home/user3:/bin/bash
6. user4:x:1220:1221::/home/user4:/bin/bash

Change the shell from `/bin/bash` to `/bin/rbash` and save the file.

Link the /bin/bash binary to a new name called ‘rbash’. Use the following symbolic link command.

ln -s /bin/rbash /bin/bash

Edit the `/etc/ssh/sshd_config` and add the following to the bottom of the file.

Match group sftp

ForceCommand internal-sftp

ChrootDirectory %h

X11Forwarding no

AllowTcpForwarding no

Restart the sshd service. **NOTE: It is best to have another session connected via SSH in the event you lock yourself out.

service sshd restart

1. Ensure the user’s home should be root-owned and have 755 permissions. This example is done on the user’s home directory of /home/user1 below.

chmod 755 /home/user1

chown root.root /home/user1

Your computer’s IP or firewall’s IP address could be blocked by the server. This happens when someone from the above mentioned IP addresses attempts to access unauthorized ports by means of scanning or attempting to gain root-level access. When this happens the offending ip address is blocked in our managed firewall services. If you believe this is the case do the following:

1. Attempt to access your domain from the computer in question. Note any messages.

2. Attempt to access your domain from a machine with a different IP address (preferrably off the network).

If you’re unable to access the site from within your network but can access it

outside chances are that ip address is blocked by the server.  Obtain your IP addresses that can not access the server at AIT (you can use services such as whatismyip.com to determine your IP address) and provide that to AIT via a trouble ticket.

All Upgrades/Downgrades are done during our Server Maintenance Window, between 12-6 a.m. EST, Monday-Friday. In both instances, you will need to always back up your data to prevent data loss during migrations, downgrades, or upgrades.

This error is probably the online “good” error a user could get because this means that they have been to your site previously and have returned.

If you wish to not have this error anymore, then include a server side include (SSI) on the most visited pages. This will ensure that the visitor receives an HTML page that is parsed, and it must be parsed by the server (not from cache), thus making your HTML pages come from the server all the time.

• //www.chiark.greenend.org.uk/~sgtatham/putty/download.html
• //support.jgaa.com/?cmd=ShowArticle&ID=11

Note that when you submit a trace route to AIT, we will review the entire trace route and specifically we will look for the mid-point or half way point between your connection and AIT’s network. There is normally a handoff between one major carrier and another major carrier that AIT may use. For example, if you perform a trace route, and you get 2 major networks, the place where it goes from one network to another is the mid-point. If there is a problem on AIT’s side of the mid-point, AIT will contact our carrier(s) that can help address the issue you may be having. However, if you see problems, time outs or any *’s before the mid-point, then it is best to contact your internet service provider and have them determine why that is occurring because they own relationships with the carrier(s) that are timing out.

If you are having intermittent problems accessing your dedicated server or web hosting account, please run a trace route as follows:

If you have a Windows XP, Windows Vista, or Windows 7 PC:

1. Click start icon, then in the search box, or in the ‘run’ option, type ‘cmd’.
2. This opens a DOS prompt.
3. At the DOS command line, type tracert yourdomain.com where yourdomain.com is your domain name.
4. Your screen may output information that looks like:Tracing route to example.com over a maximum of 30 hops:1 – 123 ms – 123 ms -123 ms – 38.1.1.1
5. 2 – 147 ms – 145 ms -182 ms – fayetteville.nc.pop.psi.net
6. 3 – 170 ms – 134 ms -134 ms – 207.124.104.54
7. 4 – 123 ms – 123 ms -123 ms – example.com

1. You can copy and paste the results into a trouble ticket as needed.
2. If you have an Apple device, such as an iMac, MacBook Pro, etc:
   • Open a terminal window.
   • Type the following at the prompt. Replace ‘domain.com’ with your domain name.
   • >traceroute domain.com
   • If you cannot open a terminal window, you can do the following instead:
     • Open the Applications folder.
     • Open the Utilities folder.
     • Choose Network Utility.
     • Click on the Traceroute tab and enter in the domain you want to query.