netcup VPS Review 2025

Before ordering the VPS from netcup, we first take a closer look at the available plans and features. Depending on the type of project, the requirements for the server can vary greatly. netcup offers a wide range of VPS solutions to meet different use cases.

In addition to the classic x86 VPS models, modern VPS options based on ARM64 architecture are also available. Furthermore, KVM-based root servers with dedicated system resources and vGPU servers are offered.

For the x86 VPS models, eight different plans are available, each differing in the level of performance provided:

For the netcup VPS test, we opted for the VPS 250 G11s plan (2 vCores, 2 GB RAM, 64 GB SSD).

netcup offers two different billing models for its VPS plans, which differ in terms of flexibility and cost structure: hourly billing and 12-month billing.

The hourly billing model is particularly customer-friendly, as it comes with no fixed contract term. While a flat amount is charged in advance at the beginning of the billing month, the actual billing is calculated on an hourly basis if the contract is terminated before the end of the month. In such cases, the unused portion of the payment is credited or refunded. This option is ideal for users who want to test the service temporarily, stay flexible, or only need a server for short-term projects. Since there are no minimum contract terms or notice periods, the server can be deactivated at any time without additional costs.

The 12-month billing model, on the other hand, is aimed at users who plan to operate their server long-term and prefer a stable cost structure. Customers choosing this model pay the plan in advance for an entire year and usually benefit from a discounted rate compared to hourly billing. This option provides greater price stability and can be more economical for continuous use.

Both models can be easily selected during the ordering process, allowing users to choose between maximum flexibility and long-term cost savings depending on their needs.

However, for contracts without a fixed term, a one-time setup fee of €5 applies. Additionally, for the two lowest VPS plans, hourly billing is mandatory — these are always billed on an hourly basis plus the setup fee. Another peculiarity is that the billing period for these entry-level plans is six months instead of one month as with the other plans.

Overall, netcup’s billing system appears relatively complex to outsiders and could be explained more clearly on the website. Many important details — such as the mandatory hourly billing for entry-level plans, the six-month billing cycle, or the setup fee for non-binding contracts — only become apparent once the desired VPS is added to the shopping cart.

netcup’s VPS instances are provisioned using KVM virtualization technology and enterprise-grade hardware.

All VPS plans come equipped with fast SSD storage, which has a positive impact on overall system performance and loading times. The amount of available storage depends on the selected plan: even the entry-level model offers a generous 64 GB, while the top-tier configuration provides an impressive 2,048 GB of SSD storage.

The number of virtual CPU cores (vCores) also varies by plan, ranging from 2 vCores in the basic model to 16 vCores in the highest-performance configuration. Similarly, RAM scales from 2 GB in the entry-level plan up to 64 GB in the top-tier package. This allows netcup to offer flexible resource configurations tailored to different workloads — from simple web projects to compute-intensive applications.

Each VPS includes a dedicated IPv4 and IPv6 address by default. For data transfer, customers benefit from an unlimited traffic allowance, meaning there are no extra costs even for bandwidth-heavy applications.

The two lowest-priced VPS plans feature a network connection of up to 1,000 Mbit/s, while higher tiers offer up to 2.5 Gbit/s. Regardless of the selected plan, netcup guarantees an annual uptime of 99.6%, ensuring high availability for hosted services.

By default, servers are deployed in a European data centre or, optionally, in the United States. For an additional fee, hosting is also available in Vienna (AT), Nuremberg (DE), or Amsterdam (NL). However, the two entry-level VPS plans are exclusively hosted in Nuremberg (DE).

netcup provides a range of security features designed to ensure the safe and stable operation of its VPS environments. A key component is the integrated DDoS protection, which is based on an intelligent filter cluster that automatically detects and mitigates attacks without disrupting normal traffic.

Users can also create an unlimited number of snapshots directly through the server management interface to back up the current system state. These snapshots can be exported for external backups or migrations when needed. However, only one snapshot can be downloaded free of charge — additional downloads are subject to a fee.

If a system issue occurs, a rescue system is available that allows the VPS to be booted and repaired independently of the installed operating system.

For added convenience and control on the go, the netcup SCP app provides full access to all management functions, enabling users to monitor and manage their VPS anytime and from anywhere.

To manage the VPS, netcup provides a user-friendly ServerControlPanel (SCP) that allows convenient control of essential functions such as restarts, snapshots, network settings, and installations. Users also receive full root access, granting complete control over the system. A remote console is available for direct access, ensuring the server can still be reached even in the event of network issues. Alternatively, administration can be carried out via an SSH connection, offering secure command-line control.

When it comes to operating system installation, netcup offers a high degree of flexibility: in addition to a wide range of preconfigured images (for example, various Linux distributions), users can upload their own ISO files or mount DVD images to create customised setups. This makes the platform suitable for both beginners and experienced administrators with specific requirements.

Available operating systems: Debian, Ubuntu, openSUSE, Arch Linux, AlmaLinux, Rocky Linux, FreeBSD.

The netcup VPS plans offer an overall excellent range of features. They come well-equipped, with generous SSD storage and numerous administration options — including full root access, a remote console, and a wide selection of preinstalled or custom images. The snapshot feature is user-friendly and makes it easy to create as many restore points as needed. One minor drawback: only a single snapshot can be exported free of charge. For more advanced backup strategies, a larger export allowance would be desirable.

• Strong hardware configuration with generous SSD storage

• Extensive management and installation options

• Convenient snapshot functionality directly in the control panel

   

• Only one snapshot can be exported free of charge

In the next section, we take a closer look at the ordering process and management of the netcup VPS.

During the ordering process at netcup, you are provided with comprehensive information about all technical and contractual details of your VPS. You also have the option to add extra services, such as additional IP addresses or domain registrations. For higher-tier plans, you can additionally choose between a 12-month or no fixed-term contract and select from different data centre locations, depending on your preferences and requirements.

As part of the ordering process, it is necessary to create a customer account with netcup. During registration, personal details such as your address and phone number are collected. Afterwards, you receive an order summary including the invoice, which you can then confirm to complete the purchase. Payment can be made conveniently via direct debit, bank transfer, credit card, or PayPal. Your order is then reviewed by a netcup staff member, and you will receive all further information by email. The server is provisioned immediately after your identity has been verified, allowing you to start using your VPS without delay.

 

Through the netcup Customer Control Panel, you can manage all contract-related information associated with your customer account. Here, you’ll find a list of all your products — such as servers, domains, and SSL certificates — and have the option to update your contact details and payment information. You can also open support tickets directly from the dashboard to contact the netcup customer service team for assistance.

The netcup Server Control Panel is used for the technical administration of your server. On the start page, you’ll find all key information about the current server status and hardware configuration. Navigation takes place via a menu on the left side, covering various management areas.

In the Control section, you can perform essential actions such as starting, stopping, or restarting the server. Statistics provides insights into resource utilisation, including CPU, RAM, and network usage over defined time periods. Under Media, you can manage ISO images, snapshots, and custom templates — ideal for installations or system restores.

The Network section allows the configuration of IP addresses, while Access offers options for setting up passwords. In Settings, general server parameters such as boot order or keyboard layout can be adjusted. Log provides a detailed view of system events and activities, and Screen enables direct console access to the server.

The netcup VPS scores well for its overall high level of user-friendliness. The ordering process is straightforward and well-structured, allowing the server to be ready for use quickly. Management via the Control Panel is equally convincing: all key functions are logically organised and easy to locate. The interface is intuitive, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced users alike. While the design appears somewhat outdated, it remains functional and efficient without unnecessary clutter.

• Quick setup and activation after ordering

• Clear and logically structured control panel

• Intuitive operation, suitable even for beginners

• Slightly outdated user interface design

To evaluate the performance of the netcup VPS, several benchmarks were conducted. The tests focused on CPU performance and disk speed, using the well-known benchmarking tool YABS (Yet Another Bench Script).

netcup VPS Benchmark: CPU Performance

The CPU performance was measured using Geekbench 6, assessing both single-core and multi-core performance.

Our netcup VPS achieved the following results:

Single-Core CPU Value: 1134

Multi-Core CPU Value: 2069

Performance comparison with other VPS providers in the test:

netcup vServer Benchmark: Disk Performance

Disk performance was tested using the fio benchmarking tool. Both read/write speeds per second and I/O operations per second (IOPS) were analysed.

Our netcup VPS achieved the following results:

Read/Write Speed (64k block size): 3545.5 MB/s

Input/Output Operations (64k block size): 55.397k IOPS

Comparison with other VPS providers in the test:

Single-Core CPU Value (1134): Average → 2 points
Multi-Core CPU Value (2069): Good → 3 points
Read/Write Speed (3545.5 MB/s): Good → 3 points
IOPS (55.397k): Good → 3 points

Total Score: 11 out of 12 points → Rating: 5/5 stars

The CPU performance is very good in multi-core workloads, while the single-core score ranks in the solid mid-range. The disk performance is outstanding, with excellent read/write speeds and IOPS results. Overall, the netcup VPS delivers strong performance, particularly suitable for storage-intensive applications.

• Excellent disk performance

• Very good multi-core CPU performance

• none

netcup provides a comprehensive support offering divided into two main areas: direct customer support and the netcup Help Center. The customer support service allows for personal contact with a support representative, while the Help Center serves as an extensive knowledge base where users can independently search for answers and troubleshooting guides.

A particular highlight is the dedicated netcup community, which not only features an active forum and detailed tutorials but also hosts an annual community event, enabling direct interaction and knowledge exchange between users and the provider.
 

netcup provides its customers with structured and reliable support across multiple channels. The primary method of contact is the ticket system, which allows users to conveniently submit inquiries related to billing, hosting, server solutions, or other products. A particularly customer-friendly aspect is the response guarantee: if a ticket is submitted on a working day (Monday to Friday) before 5 p.m., the support team will respond on the same day. For urgent assistance, customers can reach the telephone hotline during business hours — Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (CET). In emergencies, such as server outages or account unavailability, a 24/7 emergency support service is available. Additionally, the netcup Status page provides real-time updates on known technical issues and ongoing maintenance, further enhancing transparency throughout the support process.

For those who prefer to research products and solutions independently, netcup offers a comprehensive Help Center with numerous guides and technical documentation covering all available services. This is complemented by the netcup Wiki, which serves as a central knowledge base providing essential information about product usage.

Another key element of the support structure is the netcup Forum, established in 2008. It serves as an active discussion platform for pre-sales questions, technical challenges, and general hosting or server topics. In addition to lively customer discussions, the Community Management Team ensures moderation, transparency, and the collection of user feedback.

The netcup Open Source Community Tutorials add further practical value. These tutorials offer hands-on instructions for a variety of use cases, written by dedicated community members and reviewed by netcup’s editorial team before publication. Contributors of particularly helpful tutorials can even receive a small reward — a thoughtful way to acknowledge contributions to the shared knowledge base.
 

Our Experience with netcup Customer Support

As part of our netcup VPS test (May 2025), we had the opportunity to evaluate the customer service first-hand. The telephone support was easily reachable and helpful, but the ticket response time in our test was rather long — the reply arrived after more than 24 hours.
 

netcup impresses with a comprehensive and well-structured support offering. In addition to traditional email and telephone support, users benefit from a detailed Help Center, extensive documentation, and an active community forum featuring practical tutorials that explain even complex topics clearly. However, in our test, the long response times for support tickets were a noticeable drawback, with some replies taking more than 24 hours.

• Direct support via email and phone during business hours

• Extensive Help Center with detailed guides

• Active forum and community tutorials

• Occasionally long response times for tickets (over 24 hours)

In the final section of our netcup VPS review, we take a closer look at the pricing structure. Thanks to the wide range of available plans, it’s possible to find a suitable server solution for almost any budget. The monthly fee depends on the chosen configuration — higher performance levels for CPU cores, RAM, and storage space naturally come at a higher price.

netcup offers two billing models for its VPS plans: a flexible hourly-based option with no contract term and a more affordable 12-month plan for long-term use. However, the flexible model includes a one-time setup fee of €5. The two lowest VPS tiers can only be booked with hourly billing, which is invoiced on a six-month cycle. Overall, the billing structure is relatively complex and becomes fully transparent only during the checkout process on the website.

Conclusion on Costs

netcup’s pricing is fair and well-balanced, offering a suitable VPS solution for nearly every budget thanks to the wide range of configurations. With the choice between flexible hourly billing without a contract and a lower-cost annual plan for continuous operation, netcup provides two well-designed options for different use cases. However, the billing structure could be clearer, as some details only become apparent during the ordering process.

• Wide selection of VPS plans

• Fair pricing and configurations for different budgets
   

• Billing structure could be more transparent

To sum up our netcup VPS test:

The netcup VPS delivers a well-rounded package with solid technical specifications, extensive administrative options, and a user-friendly interface. The only minor drawback is that only one snapshot can be exported free of charge, which slightly limits flexible backup strategies.

In terms of performance, the VPS particularly excels in multi-core CPU performance, while disk performance also achieves outstanding results — making the servers especially suitable for storage-intensive applications.

The customer support stands out with a strong multi-channel structure, including email and phone support, a comprehensive Help Center, and an active community featuring forums and tutorials. The only downside is that response times for support tickets can occasionally be slow.

Pricing is also a positive aspect: users can choose between flexible hourly billing or discounted annual plans, allowing for easy adaptation to individual needs. However, the billing structure is not entirely transparent at first glance and only becomes fully clear during the ordering process.

Overall, the netcup VPS convinces with a very good price-performance ratio, well-thought-out features, and high adaptability – with only minor deductions for support response times and the limited free snapshot export.

• Generous SSD configuration: Even the entry-level plan provides plenty of fast storage space.
• Comprehensive management features: Root access, remote console, snapshot functionality, and image selection offer a high degree of flexibility.
• User-friendly control panel: A clear layout and intuitive operation make management easy – even for beginners.
• Excellent disk performance: High read/write speeds and strong IOPS values make it ideal for storage-intensive applications.
• Flexible pricing models: Choose between hourly billing with no contract term or affordable annual billing for long-term operation.

• Limited snapshot export: Only one snapshot can be backed up externally for free, which is too restrictive for reliable backup strategies.
• Long support response times: Ticket replies can take more than 24 hours.

Here’s how the netcup VPS performs compared to the other VPS providers in our test:

The best providers from our vServer test

Rank ↕	Provider ↕	Test Score ↕
1.		4,8/5 VERY GOOD	netcup Test	To provider
2.		4,6/5 VERY GOOD	Hetzner Online GmbH Test	To provider
3.		4,6/5 VERY GOOD	IP-Projects GmbH & Co. KG Test	To provider
4.		4,2/5 GOOD	Infomaniak Test	To provider

Here you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions about netcup’s VPS offerings:

No, netcup does not perform automatic backups. A snapshot feature is available within the Server Control Panel, allowing users to manually create backups of their VPS.

netcup is operated by netcup GmbH, a German company based in Karlsruhe, founded in 2002. The company specialises in web hosting, domains, server solutions, and cloud services. Since 2016, netcup has been part of the Anexia Group, an international IT service provider headquartered in Austria. Despite belonging to the group, netcup continues to operate independently, serving both private customers and professional users.

There are several alternatives to the netcup VPS on the market. Among the larger German hosting providers are STRATO and IONOS. Smaller providers such as active-servers and ST-Hosting also offer comparable VPS solutions.

16 June 2025 – Update to Performance Test and Results

After the publication of our initial test report, netcup responded to the weaker CPU performance observed and conducted a technical review. It was found that during a server update, several CPU features had not been correctly enabled, resulting in the reduced performance measured in the first test.

This issue has since been resolved across all systems, and according to netcup, full CPU performance is now available to all customers as intended. To verify this, we retested the VPS and updated the performance data in the review. With the improved performance results, the performance rating increased from 3 to 5 points, raising the overall test score from 4.4 to 4.8 points.