Dedicated web hosting is one of three primary web hosting methods. Other types of hosting include virtual hosting, sometimes called shared hosting, which is the most common web hosting method; and clustered web hosting which uses a group of servers that are integrated in order to increase performance and redundancy for a web hosting customer who has unique needs. There are definite advantages and disadvantages to the various web hosting methods. Dedicated web hosting is a hosting method that many internet-based businesses find to be extremely advantageous.

Dedicated hosting provides the client with a customized, first-class web server. Dedicated hosting is usually for websites that require more system resources as well as bigger bandwidth. With this need for resources, an entire server dedicated to the needs of the website is more practical.

Dedicated web hosting is a step up from virtual web hosting because, even if the server is provided by a web hosting company, with dedicated web hosting you are the only customer that uses the server and you generally have complete control of the server for administrative purposes. Because you administer and control the web server yourself with dedicated web hosting, you have greater flexibility. The hosting company that provides dedicated web hosting services generally owns the server and leases it to you as a dedicated web hosting client so they are responsible for hardware management. Depending upon the dedicated web hosting services provided, you may be able to handle your own upgrades and install your own software, or you can outsource such tasks to the dedicated web hosting provider.

You should expect much better performance from dedicated web hosting solution. Your site should be faster since your are not sharing neither processor, disc space or data transfer with other users.

For most internet-based businesses, dedicated web hosting is sufficient; however, for businesses with advanced needs custom engineering and server design using clustered hosting may be necessary. However, clustered hosting is really pretty rare. For businesses that need custom applications and more space than what is available in a shared environment, dedicated web hosting is usually the answer.

Upgrading from virtual web hosting to dedicated web hosting is recommended if your business has multiple websites, uses custom applications, needs specialized support or increased web hosting space and speed. If your website or websites provide download capabilities for customers, then dedicated web hosting is a good web hosting option for you because there will be fewer bandwidth restrictions than there are with virtual or shared web hosting.