VPS technology allows you to allocate separate disk space to each client. The virtual server is hosted on physical hardware and is part of it with its own amount of RAM, its own power. As a result, applications and programs of any configuration and size are quickly installed and launched. VPS clients are insured against platform failures with a significant increase in traffic. At the same time, the security level increases. Data access is restricted for third-party hosting clients. In some cases, for example, the United Kingdom VPS provides round-the-clock technical support, which allows you to quickly solve any problems.
The principle of VPS operation
Technically, a VPS is a certain amount of disk space on a physical server. On one physical machine, you can organize many virtual hosting services with the same type of functions and management. The data backup option allows you to quickly restore the functionality of a failed platform. Renting a VPS involves granting the client root-level rights, which means the ability to install any software and change settings.
The principle of operation of the server is based on virtualization, which is achieved by the integrated use of software tools. The first option is virtualization using OS cores. Copies of the operating system run independently of each other. The advantage of the technology is the ease of management. The disadvantage is the ability to use only one OS. Virtualization using a hypervisor involves software that allows you to run multiple operating systems simultaneously. Parallel execution of tasks using different operating systems takes place on the same host server.
The use of a hypervisor allows customers to choose any operating system – Windows or Linux. Hardware virtualization based on a hypervisor is the best option for hosting demanding, specific projects with a large expected attendance and workload.
In fact, a VPS is an isolated platform on which they work as on a remote computer. A user with root rights can add and delete any files, edit programs, including utility programs, install and configure the software.
Initial setup: features and nuances
You can configure the virtual server yourself. The provider provides information about setting up the VPS, installing and replacing the software. An alternative option is the transfer of authority to the hoster, who configures the server and then performs the functions of an administrator. In the first case, it will be possible to save money – a pricing plan without a professional setup and administration will be cheaper. The main advantages of the second option are the quick launch of the VPS, and the correct setting of operating parameters, which contributes to the smooth, uninterrupted operation of the site and other projects. In case of errors or shortcomings in the operation of the platform, the hoster adjusts the parameters and tests the system.
Preparing for setup
It has already been mentioned that one physical server can serve as a location for several VPS. Tenants’ disk volumes are isolated and do not affect each other’s work in any way. They don’t exchange files. It is not possible to access network packets and the operating memory of another VPS tenant.
The first stage of preparing for the setup is checking the IP address for blocking and spam. Before starting the setup, make sure that you are offered an unblocked server. Blocking an IP address is usually caused by complaints from users of Internet resources about spam mailing. If the IP address is on the black list, the delivery of electronic mail messages may be incorrect. For example, the emails you send will immediately end up in the Spam folder. Using the service you can check which country the IP address is registered in. The service will help to check the presence of a domain name or IP address in the “black” list. Getting a domain name in the Spamhaus list means that it is impossible to send emails by Google and Microsoft mail services, as well as Yahoo.
The second stage of the preparatory measures is the page loading speed check. The speed of data transmission on the Internet affects the usability of the site and, accordingly, the efficiency of its work. You can measure the network bandwidth (Internet channel) using Iperf or Speedtest CLI programs.
After connecting the server and registering in the system, you can transfer documents using the SSH program. The utility is a priori present in the Linux operating system. If the Windows operating system is used, the SSH program will have to be installed additionally.
Configuration Features
Choosing a provider is an important step in organizing the work of virtual hosting. Hosters offer numerous options that differ in the amount of disk space, RAM, and processor characteristics (CPU). After paying for the tariff plan, the client receives detailed information about the server, including the IP address, network username, and password. SSH protocol allows you to quickly configure the server operation. Step-by-step instructions:
- Change the root password – enter the password command, after which a request for a new password will be received. To verify the new password, you need to suspend the SSH connection and then restore it. The possibility of performing the operation indicates the functionality of the new password.
- Adjust the time and date parameters, and select the time zone.
- Create a new user. It is more convenient to add users during the VPS setup process. This approach will help to differentiate the rights and prevent unauthorized access to the platform in the future. To add a new user with restricted rights, use the command $ sudo adduser <username>. The command without the sudo operator will help you add a user with root rights.
- Update the kernel. After updating the kernel to the latest version, the server is rebooted so that the changes take effect.
- Configure the firewall.
Installing an NGINX web server that runs on Linux or Windows will help you set up virtual hosting. Using the NGINX program, you can configure the operation of sites, create pages for domains, and make changes to access logs. Another program that will be needed to effectively configure VPS, is MySQL. It is designed for database management. After installing MySQL, you can create a database. The software package required to configure the virtual server includes the PHP protocol. This is an application with ready-made scripts (scripts) that will greatly facilitate the process of configuring and managing the server and the sites stored on it. Even thoroughly following the step-by-step instructions, it is not always possible to avoid mistakes when setting up a VPS yourself. In order not to waste time and prevent failures in the operation of websites and applications, it is better to ask for professional help.
