If you’re too big for shared hosting, but not big enough for a dedicated server, VPS hosting is made for you. You are still sharing a server with other users, but you have your own environment that they don’t have access to. What happens in the main server is split into smaller, virtual “servers”. In the end you get all of the independence and flexibility that comes with a dedicated server, without the larger price tag.

When looking for a VPS hosting company you want to make sure to be on the lookout for a few things. Some of these may be absolute necessities, and some may be completely useless. Anyway, here is a list of some of the perks that you should look for in your search for the perfect VPS Web host. Good luck, and happy hunting!

Check the Hardware
Make sure you find out from any VPS hosting company what hardware they are running. Quad core Xeon servers are some of the best around. You also want to make sure the hard drives are RAID protected. Look for RAID 5 at a minimum, but RAID 10 will be faster and more stable.

Check the software
If you don’t have your own operating system preference, it’s tough to beat CentOS 4 or 5. You should also verify that you get full root access to your VPS so that you can run or install anything that you need to, within the hosts terms of service. You also want to verify that you can host as many domains as you think you may need. Also check that they offer the control panel that you like working with. If they don’t offer the control panel you use see what they do offer and if it will fit your needs. If not you may have to move on. You should also get at least 2 dedicated IP addresses. So, make it a point to ask this very important question before you write your new Web host a check for the first month.

Don’t pay too long
You also want to be very careful if you choose to pay in advance for hosting services. Even if you get better pricing you may want to move next month, or the host may go downhill. You should always look to pay monthly so you can leave when you need to.

Make sure you do your research, but for most sites VPS hosting makes a great choice.