A dedicated hosting server is when a client leases a dedicated server that isn't shared with anyone else. It's the most flexible option and can be fully customised to the requirements of the customer. Typically they are hosted at data centres offering a higher level of reliability. While more expensive than other options it still saves money compared to hosting at a company.

Hosted sites are the most flexible choice. Customers specify their requirements for both software and hardware and request changes. When opting for hybrid support some customers prefer to use a Microsoft server as more system administrators are available to manage them, others prefer a Linux system as these are typically both cheaper and faster.

A premium option is Complex Managed Hosting. This is the option for systems that require a higher level of administration especially in the first year. By reducing or eliminating the administrative burden on the customer it can save money in staffing costs as well as ensuring a professional service.

Custom support levels are possible allowing the administration to match the business needs. During the first year of a new or migrated site a much higher level of support is typically required. After the first year support can be scaled down to a level suitable for maintaining the site.

Security is an important concern for any website. One of the key advantages of a managed solution is the level of assurance that critical updates will be installed and proper monitoring ensures that any misuse of the site, such as a brute force attack, is identified and dealt with in a timely manner. The company must closely monitor security news and make sure that the latest security patches, spyware protection and virus shields are put in place.

Prevention is better than cure. Proactive administration detects possible security flaws. One way of doing this is checking the hosted side for malicious code or flaws in the system that would allow it to be posted. For example a hacker might add a script to a link that will be invisible to a user but would allow them to directly connect to a vulnerable system. This would allow the hacker access to the hard drive and webcam of the exploited system with all the risks that entails. By preventing this pro-actively it reduces the risk of breaches that would require more hasty reactive support.

Upgrading is relatively cheap. As the hardware is owned by the provider the site owner does not need to buy new equipment when upgrading to a faster system or requiring extra storage space. While these will incur a higher fee the change on a hosted site is much quicker than on a local server.

A dedicated hosting server ensures that the optimum levels of stability, security, customisability and control are maintained. For businesses with a high volume of web traffic this is the best solution. When remote experts are required a Complex Managed Hosting solution can ensure the best processes are maintained when setting up, managing and updating the site.