When it comes to hosting web applications, in modern business there are numerous choices based across many different service level agreements. However one definite division between the services on offer is between managed colocation and dedicated servers. The question is, which is best for your business?
This may seem like an extremely difficult choice although with a little research it is fairly simple to make a decision based upon the needs of your business. The first step of any business decision is always to consider the repercussions in direct relation to the day to day operation of your company, today and tomorrow. Subsequently, looking at you costs, technical requirements, levels of website traffic and predicted growth are all vital in the decision making process.
Once you have considered the needs of your business it is important to weigh up the benefits of each.
Managed colocation removes the infrastructure costs of housing your own server equipment, or even building your own server room. It also provides an element of freedom, allowing you to adapt the amount of hardware in response the immediate needs of the business. colocation also grants your company mobility, as you are not tied to a particular geographic location. However, dedicated servers are more desirable for larger operations which have large space and hardware requirements, at this point economies of scale become a factor.
The lower hardware costs are however not purely related to the present, with the ever escalating technology associated with servers and other computer equipment, managed colocation helps you to avoid some upgrade costs, as it is based upon as monthly premium for services. Dedicated servers on the other hand require the initial outlay for the hardware, but are also likely to involve some form of payment as and when the technology becomes obsolete.
The best way to explain the difference between managed colocation and dedicated servers, and whether either is right for your business is to use the analogy that dedicated servers is like buying your own house, whereas managed colocation is more like renting. Dedicated servers can be a better long term option, although typically more expensive; whilst the rental emphasis of managed colocation offers greater short term gain, freedom and choice.
Ultimately as a business owner, it is important to decide which most closely suits your operation, and which allows the greatest potential effectiveness, not only in the present, but also in the future.
Horace Tait takes a look at some of the pros and cons associated with managed colocation and why as a dynamic business this form of service can be the more palatable hosting option.
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