Many companies, once they start to grow, move too fast into finding a dedicated web hosting solution. They realize the benefits of such a change, but they rarely are aware of what a responsibility running your own server can become. If something goes wrong, the server crashes, or your data is lost, you are essentially fully responsible. There is no back-up other that what you have organized. There is no one to blame but yourself.
If you have had your domain names attached to a shared server space, you are used to being able to call someone up when the server goes down, your domain names are not propagating fast enough, or your email is disappearing. If you choose a dedicated web hosting solution, there will be no one to call. Of course, if there is a mechanical problem with your server, then the hosting company will help you on their end, but it is your responsibility to maintain the server, re-boot it, and make repairs as needed.
This is the downside of putting your website online in this manner, but the upside is tremendous if you have the need. By choosing a dedicated web hosting solution, you will be able to run your programs and your website on any operating system you choose. You will also be able to set up your own spam filters, your own domain and email forwarding, and do whatever you want with your web space.
For larger companies, particularly those that are doing some form of e-commerce on their sites, and require strong security, dedicated hosting is the preferred choice. If you have a large number of files and require vast amounts of hosting space, then this is the choice as well. But, if you only have a small site, you will rarely have to go with something this expansive.
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