Path = Home : Guide to web hosting : What is colocation web hosting?

What is colocation web hosting?

Colocation web hosting is similar to dedicated web hosting. The main difference is that you own the server and your hosting company provides the building and rack that the server is located in, plus the connection to the internet.

You are responsible for all the maintenance of the server and the operating system installed on it. So if your server needs to be re-booted, you will have to do it yourself remotely or pay someone on-site to do it for you. Also, if any of the parts in the server, such as a hard drive become faulty and need to be replaced, it is your responsibility to take care of it.

This is the most powerful type of the web hosting and is really only suitable for the largest of web sites.

The advantages of colocation web hosting

• You have control over your server.
• The connection to the internet is provided by your host.
• The physical security for your server is provided by your host.
• The cost can be lower than dedicated hosting since you own the server and therefore are not paying the cost of renting one.

The disadvantages of colocation web hosting

• You need to be able to solve any problems with the management of the server yourself or you will have to hire someone to do it for you.