Dedicated Server vs. Managed Server: What are the differences?

Depending on the web project, users require different access and write permissions on a server. Web hosting providers offer various product packages with different administrative rights. But what are the differences? And which product is suitable for whom? The following comparison of Dedicated Server vs Managed Server provides answers to these questions.

What is a Dedicated Server?

With a Dedicated Server, it is a network device that the user can access with root rights. This means that they are able to completely administer the hardware themselves.

As a result, customers with a Dedicated Server can

• install various distributions of an operating system,
• install or delete any software, and
• adjust and change all server configurations according to their needs.

The server itself is located in the hosting provider's data centre and can be accessed over the internet.

Ideally, users already have some experience in IT system administration or have gained some server knowledge. To effectively administer a server, it is advantageous to know and work with the console of the operating system (usually Linux or other Unix-like OS). A basic understanding of the most important shell commands should be present.

For less experienced users, there is the option of administration through control panels such as Plesk or cPanel. These are programs that allow server administration through a graphical user interface.

This makes server management easier, but it does not make it any less complex.

Additionally, users should be aware that they will need to completely manage a Dedicated Server themselves. Backups, updates, or security patches must be installed or carried out promptly. Failing to do so could risk their entire advertising project and potentially the trust of customers, especially if data is stolen in a hacker attack on an unsecured server.

Therefore, Dedicated Servers are particularly suitable for experienced administrators or those willing to master a steep learning curve.

Advantages of Dedicated Servers

• greater freedom through unlimited configuration options
• no performance restrictions, as the hardware is not shared with anyone
• high reliability and stability even with high levels of traffic

Disadvantages of Dedicated Servers

• Users are responsible for maintenance, updates, and backups themselves, which can quickly overwhelm inexperienced users
• time-consuming administration

What is a Managed Server?

Unlike a Dedicated Server, users do not have root access with a Managed Server. This means they cannot install operating systems and can only configure the server software to a limited extent themselves. In practice, this means that customers can access a Managed Server via FTP or SSH. However, they are denied access to the operating system console.

Nevertheless, various apps and web applications such as a CMS can also be installed on a Managed Server. Uploading files is also not a problem.

Essentially, a Managed Server is comparable to shared web hosting. However, in this case, the customer has access to an exclusive Bare Metal Server with all hardware resources available. This means that a Managed Server offers much better performance than a shared hosting product.

Various configurations are possible on the Managed Server in consultation with the hosting provider. However, it is advisable to inquire in advance, especially for specific software requirements, whether the provider is willing to install and maintain them.

Therefore, Managed Servers are particularly suitable for users who require high performance but do not have specific demands on the software environment.

Advantages of Managed Servers

• No server knowledge required
• Maintenance and server support are completely and professionally handled by the provider
• Better performance and resources compared to shared hosting packages

Disadvantages of Managed Servers

• Higher costs for server administration
• Adjustments and special configurations are only possible in cooperation with the provider

Dedicated Server vs. Managed Server: Which Product for Which Project?

The question of whether to use a Dedicated Server or a Managed Server for a specific project can usually be answered with a simple cost calculation.

Companies looking for a server for their web projects should estimate the maintenance costs. While a Dedicated Server is cheaper, it also requires the user to invest more effort in administration. The resources spent on server administration are then not available for sales or production processes. Additionally, expertise within the company is necessary to properly manage a Dedicated Server.

A thorough internal assessment is therefore necessary, as the personnel costs for IT staff are usually higher than the surcharge for a Managed Server.

However, a Dedicated Server may be useful and necessary for specific software requirements. Therefore, it is crucial to clarify with the host whether a Managed Server can meet the customer's requirements.

For smaller projects or start-ups, a Virtual Private Server may also be of interest. This option is more cost-effective but less performant. If the project grows and requires more resources, switching to a Managed Server or Dedicated Server is always possible.

Also, consider comparing other web hosting products:

Web Hosting vs. Dedicated Server
Web Hosting vs. VPS Hosting
Dedicated Server vs. VPS Hosting
Cloud Server vs. VPS Hosting

Our article is based on our own experiences and research, as well as information from external sources.

Sources & further links on the topic:
https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hostrechner (Definition of individual server types)

Image credit:
Gerd Altmann on Pixabay