Given the ubiquity of colocation providers it is important that one chooses the right and reliable partner for their web hosting solutions. This is a web hosting option that involves the use of a provider who allocates the space for a server and provides band-with and power that enable the recipient to access band-with the same way they would if they had the standard web hosting services. Essentially a company or an individual is required to ship their server to a provider location which is equipped with generators that have electrical power backing, redundant A/C and UPS systems as well as round the clock technical support services and physical security.
One of the considerations that one would want to make is the length of time that the provider has been in this business. As indicated there are many provides of this web hosting option but the fact is that very few are able to meet the needs of the recipient of the services and their business. The reason that people opt for this option is that it is cheaper and it is also safer compared to standard web hosting. If the provider has been in the business for a substantially long period of time it could mean that they are well conversant with the dynamics that are involved in setting up a remote server while at the same time providing the best results.
Second you might want to consider in choosing a web hosting facility is the proximity of the provider and their facility to your business premise. It is always recommended that you seek the services of a provider who is closer to your premises as this has implications for costs and the frequency at which you receive the internet connectivity. The further the distance from the provider the greater the costs of them hosting your server machine. The receptivity of internet connection may also not be as clear and reliable if the provider is too remote. The costs that are incurred for web hosting services need to be substantially lower in this case compared to the standard web hosting services.
Another important consideration to make when choosing a colocation provider is whether they offer managed colocation or the unmanaged option. The latter type hosting options allows the recipient greater flexibility in the management of their own software and hardware. Here the recipient is largely in charge of the server configuration as well as the maintenance of the same. On the downside the recipient of these services is charged with greater responsibility of maintaining the server’s hardware and software at their own cost. On the contrary, the managed colocation web hosting option entails established web hosting software configurations offered by the provider and can be accessed by the recipient up to a certain limit. This option ensures that the provider has the responsibility of maintaining the software and hardware of the server. This method does not allow greater flexibility but is cost-effective compared to its counterpart.
Choosing the right provider for your colocation solutions is paramount to the success of your enterprise. Whether you choose managed colocation or unmanaged, ensure that they suit your business’s goals.