Windows Self Managed | Advanced Internet Technologies

Managed vs Unmanaged Dedicated Servers: Which is Better?

aitdev — Thu, 07 Mar 2024 18:22:40 +0000

These days, choosing the right hosting solution is the key to success. Among the various options, dedicated servers stand out as a cornerstone. This goes well especially for businesses requiring robust infrastructure.

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.

How do I upgrade or downgrade my web hosting account?

aitdev — Mon, 11 Sep 2023 16:22:33 +0000

To upgrade or downgrade an account, you may contact AIT Customer Service via phone at 1-877-209-5184 so we can assist you. Alternately, You may also log into the Online Customer Care Center, and select “Upgrade/Downgrade account”.

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.

What is a 304 web server error?

aitdev — Mon, 11 Sep 2023 16:21:44 +0000

The 304 error is somewhat misleading. The Apache logs it as an error, but it’s really this: Someone visits your site today, and tomorrow, they go back to your site. When they do, their local system connects with your server, and then the server tells the local machine that the information (html files, images, etc) is already in the cache of that users system, and the information is shown from the cache rather than the server itself. Apache logs this as a 304 error because it hasn’t been modified since the last time that the user has accessed that part of your site.

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.

What is a DLL?

aitdev — Mon, 11 Sep 2023 16:21:05 +0000

DLL or Dynamic Link Library, is a library of executable functions or data that can be used by a Windows application. Typically, a DLL provides one or more particular functions and a program accesses the functions by creating either a static or dynamic link to the DLL. A static link remains constant during program execution while a dynamic link is created by the program as needed. DLLs can also contain just data. DLL files usually end with the extension .dll,.exe., drv, or .fon.

A DLL can be used by several applications at the same time. Some DLLs are provided with the Windows operating system and available for any Windows application. Other DLLs are written for a particular application and are loaded with the application. With respect to AIT’s Shared Windows hosting solution, AIT will not register (add to the registry) any DLLs. If customers wish to have DLLs registered, AIT recommends one of our Dedicated Hosting platforms that will suit your needs.

What is a trace route and how do I use it?

aitdev — Mon, 11 Sep 2023 16:16:07 +0000

A “trace route” or “traceroute” is a system which traces, hop for hop, all the jumps you take from your internet connection to the destination. The first few hops are usually through your service provider’s network. The hops from there are usually through the backbone/upstream provider your service provider uses to route internet traffic. The last few hops will be with AIT’s upstream/backbone provider through our network and to your server. Each hop shows timing information (designated by 3 sets of ‘ms’ ratings). Timing below 200 ms is good timing. Anything above that up to 1000 ms indicates some delays which will ultimately affect your overall connection performance. Any ‘ms’ timings represented by an asterisk (*) indicate a timeout (bad connection). Whatever hops shows asterisks or timings above 500 will, more than likely, be where your connection is having problems. Check with the appropriate people regarding any performance problems. If the problems occur, in the first few hops, it is your service provider. If the problems occur within the midway hops, it is your service provider’s upstream/backbone connection. If the problem occurs within the last few hops to your site, then it is a problem on our end. Please note, if the problem occurs in the first few hops, it will affect most of the hops thereafter, so check with the source of the problems before checking with us (if applicable).

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:
Click start icon, then in the search box, or in the ‘run’ option, type ‘cmd’.
This opens a DOS prompt.
At the DOS command line, type tracert yourdomain.com where yourdomain.com is your domain name.
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 – 38.1.1.12 – 147 ms – 145 ms -182 ms – fayetteville.nc.pop.psi.net3 – 170 ms – 134 ms -134 ms – 207.124.104.544 – 123 ms – 123 ms -123 ms – example.com
You can copy and paste the results into a trouble ticket as needed.
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.

How do I transfer my domain from another hosting company to AIT?

aitdev — Mon, 11 Sep 2023 16:14:42 +0000

This FAQ Entry exists because the word “transfer” is commonly used when referring to transferring the hosting of a domain from one web hosting provider to another. For example, some customers start hosting their sites with other web hosting companies, and then transfer their hosting to AIT.

This term can be confused with the “domain transfer” from one domain registrar to another, which can happen without transferring the web hosting from one company to another. For further details on domain transfers from one domain registrar to another click here.

If you are looking for information about transfering a domain name from another web hosting company to AIT’s hosting, then you are in the right place. To do so, there are 4 simple steps.

Obtain a web hosting account with AIT. – If you have already done this step, proceed to step 2. If you have not yet signed up for a web hosting account with AIT, do so through our Compare Plans and Prices page.
Point your DNS to AIT– Commonly referred to as “domain pointing”, this step involves going to the registrar for your domain, and modifying the DNS information to be that of AIT’s. AIT’s DNS information is as followed:
ns0.aitcom.net
216.117.191.20
ns1.aitcom.net
216.117.186.139
ns2.aitcom.net
216.117.191.22
Propagation – Once you have changed your DNS, you will need to wait approximately 72 hours for your domain name change to propagate through the 13 root servers of the world. This means that other DNS servers will need to recognize your change before you will be able to view your site by the domain name.

How do I get additional IPs for my account?

aitdev — Mon, 11 Sep 2023 16:08:59 +0000

There are different procedures to obtain IP address for different types of accounts. Follow the instructions below based upon the type of account that you have.

FULLY MANAGED ACCOUNTS

If you have an account that has an SMT (such as a Business 1 or Reseller 1 type of account), then you can get additional IP based accounts by using the promotion codes that you were given when you signed up for service with AIT. If you do not have the promotion codes that were sent to you, then contact Customer Service through the Online Customer Care Center at https://order.aitcom.net or via phone and they can be provided to you. These promotion codes entitle you to discounted plans, which are IP based accounts.

SELF MANAGED DEDICATED ACCOUNTS

If you have a self managed dedicated server, you can obtain additional IP addresses by logging into your My Account and submitting a ticket.

You can also purchase more additional IP’s outside of the additional ones allocated to your plan. Contact Customer Service through the My Account at https://order.aitcom.net or via phone and they can be provided to you a promo code for the Additional IP.

How do I receive my free 3 IP addresses for my self managed (unmanaged) dedicated server?

aitdev — Mon, 11 Sep 2023 16:08:11 +0000

We do provide 3 additional IP addresses for free with our Self Managed dedicated servers. However, you do need to request them. You need to submit a support ticket requesting to have your additional IPs assigned to you by logging into your Online Customer Care Center at https://order.aitcom.net. We will then email the list to you, however it is your responsibility to setup the networking on the server.

How do I correct the ‘Invalid ProgID’ error when using ASPemail?

aitdev — Mon, 11 Sep 2023 16:06:28 +0000

To correct this you will need to verify that the from field in your script has your email address with your domain name in it. For security reasons, you will not be able to use an external email address such as MSN Hotmail or AOL.

How do I configure Microsoft Outlook with my Hosted Exchange account?

aitdev — Mon, 11 Sep 2023 16:05:33 +0000

To use your Hosted Exchange account with Outlook 2003, follow the instructions below:

Open Outlook.
Click Tools
Select Email Accounts
Select Add New Email Account
Select Microsoft Exchange Server
Enter the IP address of 216.117.129.21 or the name of the server (HsbeExch1.hostexch.aitcom.net). If you are using Exchange 2007 use 216.117.187.20 or exch1.hosted07.aitcom.net.
Click the ‘Connection’ tab.
Under the ‘Exchange over the Internet’ area, click the box to select the option of ‘Connect to my Exchange mailbox using HTTP.
After this is checked, click the button for ‘Exchange Proxy Settings’.
In this screen, enter the server name or IP (name = HsbeExch1.hostexch.aitcom.net or IP = 216.117.129.21) in this field under the option ‘Use this URL to connect to my proxy server for Exchange’. For Exchange 2007 use 216.117.187.20 or exch1.hosted07.aitcom.net.
Uncheck the box for “Connect using SSL Only.”
Check “On fast networks, connect using HTTP first, then connect using TCP/IP”
Check “On slow networks, connect using HTTP first, then connect using TCP/IP”
Click “OK” on all remaining dialog boxes, and click send and receive. This will connect with the exchange account and load your email, task lists, and other exchange tools into Outlook.

To use your Hosted Exchange account with Outlook 2007, follow the instructions below:

Open Outlook.
Click Tools
Select Account Settings
Select Microsoft Exchange Server
Enter the IP address of 216.117.129.21 or the name of the server (HsbeExch1.hostexch.aitcom.net). If you are using Exchange 2007 use 216.117.187.20 or exch1.hosted07.aitcom.net.
Click the ‘Connection’ tab.
Under the ‘Exchange over the Internet’ area, click the box to select the option of ‘Connect to my Exchange mailbox using HTTP.
After this is checked, click the button for ‘Exchange Proxy Settings’.
In this screen, enter the server name or IP (name = HsbeExch1.hostexch.aitcom.net or IP = 216.117.129.21) in this field under the option ‘Use this URL to connect to my proxy server for Exchange’. For Exchange 2007 use 216.117.187.20 or exch1.hosted07.aitcom.net.
Uncheck the box for “Connect using SSL Only.”
Check “On fast networks, connect using HTTP first, then connect using TCP/IP”
Check “On slow networks, connect using HTTP first, then connect using TCP/IP”
Click “OK” on all remaining dialog boxes, and click send and receive. This will connect with the exchange account and load your email, task lists, and other exchange tools into Outlook.