VPS vs VDS: Are They Different?

In the domain and hosting world, VDS and VPS are two different web hosting terms. Although virtualisation technologies power both VDS and VPS hosting in Australia, there is quite a difference in the nature of hosting.

The key difference here is that VDS is dedicated entirely to a single client, while VPS divides a server into several VMs sharing the same environment. To learn more, let’s understand the difference between VPS and VDS in terms of domain and hosting solutions.

What is a VPS Server?

A virtual private server(VPS) is a physical server that is partitioned to form several VMs in a shared environment. Therefore, each VM gets its independent server resources irrespective of the server being shared. Some of the features of a virtual private server include:

1.       Server Isolation

Each VM works in an isolated environment, avoiding any kind of neighbouring effect.

2.      Dedicated Resources

Although the physical server is shared, each VM has its independent resources.

3.      Root Access

VPS server offers more control, allowing flexibility in adjusting the environment according to user needs.

4.     Cost Efficient

Physical sharing of the server between several users makes it a cost-efficient solution.

5.     Scalable

As powered by virtualisation technology, it allows easy scalability based on the user’s needs.

What is a VDS Server?

A virtual dedicated server is a web server hosting solution which is formed with a combo of dedicated and VPS servers. It adds a layer of virtualisation to a dedicated server, which makes it more accessible than on-premise servers.

1.       Resource Allocation is Dedicated

Exclusive resources which ensure optimum performance.

2.      Enhance Isolation

The VDS setup maintains high standards of web server isolation compared to the VPS server.

3.      Control

You get complete admin access, which means you have full flexibility and control over customising the environment based on your needs.

4.     Performance

The enhanced isolation and steady, dedicated resources ensure performance.

5.     Cost efficient

A middle ground between the VPS server and dedicated hosting plan in terms of cost.

VPS vs VDS: Key Differences

VPS vs VDS	VPS	VDS
Resource Allocation	Host multiple servers in a shared hosting environment with dedicated resources for each user.	A single tenant occupies the entire environment.
Cost	VPS server plans are more cost-efficient than VDS.	VDS plans are expensive compared to VPS.
Scalability and Convenience	VPS, though, offers scalability, but due to the shared environment, it is limited in how quickly or efficiently it scales.	VDS offers better scalability due to dedicated fixed resources
Technology Used	VPS server has OpenVZ technology, which is OS-level virtualisation for speed and efficiency.	VDS uses KVM technology, which allows custom OS installation and VNC integration.
Management	VPS is managed and controlled by the OS.	VDS is managed and controlled by server hardware.
Security	The environment is partially shared, so there is still a risk of security.	It is fully dedicated, so it has higher standards when it comes to security.
Control and Customisation	A VPS server offers control and customisation, but there are limitations that may differ depending on the web host you choose.	Higher level of control and customisation as an isolated dedicated server environment.

Conclusion

VPS vs VDS is a difficult choice as both have unique advantages. VPS is cost-efficient and scalable, which makes it perfect for small hosting projects. On the other hand, VDS offers resources and performance designed to handle heavy workloads and traffic. So, understand your needs and budget and choose between VPS and VDS.