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What is a dedicated server and when do you need one?

A dedicated server is a real, physical computer in a data centre that only you use. All its CPU, memory, disks and network speed belong to you.

Benefits

• Maximum and steady performance
• Full control, including the operating system
• No neighbours, so no slowdowns from other users
• Good for strict security or compliance needs

When you may need one

• Very busy websites or online shops
• Large databases or video streaming
• Many virtual machines on one machine
• Software that needs special hardware settings

Things to know

It costs more than a VPS and needs more skills to manage. Setup is often done by hand, so delivery can take longer than a VPS. See dedicated server options.

More in Hosting basics

• What is web hosting? A simple guide
• What is shared hosting and who is it for?
• Shared hosting vs VPS: which one do you need?
• What is a VPS (virtual private server)?
• What is a VDS and how is it different from a VPS?

Still stuck? Open a support ticket.