TL;DR
The Best Managed VPS Hosting offers a perfect blend of control, performance, and expert support, catering to users seeking reliable and scalable hosting solutions. Sitting at the top of our list, ScalaHosting offers a hands-off approach to server management, ensuring topnotch performance and secured hosting environment resources the complexity of managing a server on your own.
Note: While our HostScore ratings provide a general overview of host performance, there are other factors you should consider for your specific needs. Our top hosting picks address this by offering tailored suggestions for different requirements, as demonstrated in this article.
ScalaHosting
ScalaHosting Review
ScalaHosting provides both managed and unmanaged VPS hosting. The managed VPS starts at $29.95 to $179.95 per month, featuring 24/7 support, free migration, dynamic CPU & RAM adjustment, SShield security, daily backups, and more. Their unmanaged VPS ranges from $20 to $179 per month, offering features like True Cloud VPS hosting, OpenLiteSpeed support, in-house control panel, and instant activation.
Is ScalaHosting VPS Right for You?
Ovearll, we think ScalaHosting packs a punch with its feature-rich VPS plan. The standout features include remote server backups and the sPanel control panel. These aspects not only enhance security and convenience but also protect users from unexpected cPanel price hikes, making it a smart choice for those looking for stability in their hosting costs.
VPS Hosting Plans Available
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HostScore
ScalaHosting Pros
- Outstanding hosting uptime and speed performance
- Affordable pricing
- Anytime unconditional Money-back Guarantee
- Automated backup with 7 restore points
- Generous offer in server resources – Even the lowest shared plan gets unmetered bandwidth and unlimited emails
- NVMe SSD storage for all shared hosting plans
- Innovative technology – SPanel, SShield, SWordPress
ScalaHosting Cons
- Price increase during the renewal
TMDHosting
TMDHosting Review
TMD Hosting focuses primarily on delivering managed VPS hosting services that cater to a wide array of needs, from individual projects to comprehensive business requirements. Despite a recent price increase that has made their offerings less competitively priced, the web host continues to be recognized for its superior equipment and exceptional support.
What makes TMD different than many of its peers, is it boasts an extensive array of pre-built solutions, supporting popular CMS platforms like WordPress and Joomla, ERP systems such as IceHrm and YetiForce, LMS platforms including Moodle and Dokeos, alongside development frameworks and eCommerce platforms like Vue.js, Laravel, Magento, PrestaShop, and OpenCart.
Their managed VPS plans for Windows range from $89.99 to $269.99 per month, while the unmanaged Linux VPS plans are priced between $44.99 and $125.99 per month.
Is TMD Hosting VPS Plans Right for You?
TMD Hosting impresses us with its commitment to quality hardware and support. The company guarantees a 15-minute response time for VPS plan support tickets – which is outstanding. Their extensive support for pre-built solutions is a major time saver, ensuring optimized performance for a wide variety of applications. Additionally, the free manual site migration service and the overall positive feedback from users highlight TMD Hosting’s reliability and customer satisfaction.
The catch? TMD’s VPS plans are pricey, especially when it’s time to renew. But if you’re all about quality and don’t mind spending for top service, TMD’s your spot. Great for those who want the VIP treatment without the DIY headaches.
VPS Hosting Plans Available
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TMDHosting Pros
- Affordable pricing
- Choice of global data centres in six continents
- Easy-to-use centralized dashboard
- Free white glove migration
- Host unlimited websites in Business or Enterprise plans
- Outstanding customer support
- Reinforced DDoS protection for all shared hosting accounts
TMDHosting Cons
- Lowest shared plan does not support automatic backup
- Free domain has no privacy protection
- Price increase during the renewal
LiquidWeb
LiquidWeb Review
LiquidWeb provides managed VPS for both Linux and Windows, with prices starting at $20 to $145 per month on a 2-year subscription. Features include Acronis backup, DDoS protection, dedicated IP, 100% uptime SLA, and compliance scans at additional cost. They do not offer unmanaged VPS.
Is LiquidWeb VPS Right for You?
LiquidWeb, in short, is the go-to for power users and businesses that need top-tier hosting capabilities. While the pricing is on the higher side, it’s justified by the server’s performance, reliability, and compliance features (such as HIPAA and PCI compliance). The inclusion of 50 GB Acronis backup further adds to its appeal for businesses that can’t afford to compromise on data security.
VPS Hosting Plans Available
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LiquidWeb Pros
- Powerful enterprise hosting solutions with great scalability
- 100% network uptime, backed by detailed Service Level Agreement (SLA)
- Excellent customer support – 59-Second support response guarantee
- Self-operated data centres – Higher degree of security and data integrity compared to providers renting space from third-parties
- PCI-Compliant and HIPAA-Compliant hosting servers available
LiquidWeb Cons
- No standard shared hosting plans
- No Asia-based data center
InMotion Hosting
InMotion Hosting Review
InMotion Hosting offers managed Linux VPS with plans ranging from $14.99 to $74.99 per month for a 3-year subscription, including features like NVMe SSD storage, live support, dedicated IP addresses, Monarx Active Security, and more. Unmanaged VPS plans with NVMe storage are available from $7 to $224 per month, with cheaper options for SSD storage.
Is InMotion VPS Right for You?
With a solid reputation built over years, InMotion’s VPS hosting plans are thoughtfully designed. The long trial period is a significant plus, allowing users to thoroughly test their services. However, the catch is that Monarx Active Security is only included in pricier plans, and getting the best rates requires a 3-year commitment. This setup might make potential customers think twice if they’re wary of long-term engagements or need advanced security from the get-go.
VPS Hosting Plans Available
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Recommended for
HostScore
InMotion Hosting Pros
- Affordable pricing
- Lowest shared hosting plan supports Python, Node.JS, Ruby and GIT version control
- Choice of data center locations in the United States and Europe
- Free AutoSSL
- Built-in hack, DDoS, and malware protection
- 90-day money back guarantee
- Free website migration services
InMotion Hosting Cons
- Lower shared hosting plans lack speed optimization
- Price increase during the renewal
DreamHost
DreamHost Review
Since its inception in 1997, DreamHost has grown to become a key player in the web hosting industry, now hosting over 1.5 million websites for more than 400,000 customers across over 100 countries. DreamHost offers a comprehensive range of hosting services, including shared, cloud, dedicated, managed WordPress, and VPS hosting. With its managed VPS plans ranging from $13.75 to $110 per month and unmanaged VPS plans from $4.50 to $48 per month, DreamHost caters to a wide array of hosting needs – providing scalable solutions from small personal blogs to large enterprise websites.
Is DreamHost VPS Plans Right for You?
DreamHost shines in several key areas, making it a top pick for a diverse clientele. Its “Web Pro” service suite is especially noteworthy, offering a one-stop shop for web design, site management, marketing, and development – a perfect match for businesses seeking comprehensive web solutions under one roof.
The promise of 100% uptime is a bold claim that underscores their commitment to reliability. Plus, their plans all run on speedy SSDs, and their own control panel means you won’t have to deal with cPanel’s price jumps.
Overall, we think DreamHost can be a solid choice for anyone, but businesses will love the full package. It’s like having a pit crew for your website.
VPS Hosting Plans Available
Customer Support Channels
Recommended for
HostScore
DreamHost Pros
- Reliable server uptime performance
- Daily backup included in all shared hosting plans
- 97-day Money back guarantee
- Extensive knowledgebase
DreamHost Cons
- Price increase during the renewal
- Live chat support can be better
- Server location in the United States only
- No free site migration assistance
What Is Managed VPS Hosting?
Managed VPS Hosting is a web hosting solution where the hosting provider takes on the responsibility of managing the server’s technical aspects, such as security, maintenance, updates, and backups. It combines the power and flexibility of a Virtual Private Server (VPS) – where resources like CPU, RAM, and storage are dedicated to your account, with the convenience of managed services.
Managed VPS hosting is ideal for businesses and individuals who need more control than shared hosting offers but lack the technical skills or time to manage a server themselves.
Popular Operating System Used in Managed VPS
Choosing the right operating system (OS) for a VPS is crucial because it can significantly affect the server’s performance, security, and compatibility with applications. The two primary categories of operating systems available for VPS are Linux-based and Windows-based systems. Each has its own set of advantages and is suitable for different types of users and applications.
Linux-based VPS
Linux is a popular choice for VPS hosting due to its stability, performance, and security. It’s an open-source platform, which makes it a cost-effective option as there are no licensing fees. Linux VPS is highly customizable and is considered the best choice for developers and users familiar with command-line interfaces.
Advantages:
- Cost: Most Linux distributions are free, which can reduce overall hosting costs.
- Flexibility and Control: Offers a wide range of distributions (such as Ubuntu, CentOS, Debian) that can be tailored to specific needs.
- Security: Generally considered more secure than Windows, with a strong community support network.
- Performance: Linux servers often use fewer resources, providing a more efficient performance for web applications.
Ideal for:
- Running open-source technologies like PHP, Ruby, Python, and supporting popular CMS platforms such as WordPress, Drupal, and Joomla.
- Hosting environments requiring cPanel or WHM for management.
- Developers looking for a customizable and versatile hosting environment.
Windows-based VPS
Windows VPS hosting is chosen for its compatibility with Windows-based applications and services. It’s essential for users who need to run software that requires a Windows operating system, such as ASP.NET applications, Microsoft SQL Server, or any other Microsoft technologies.
Advantages:
- Compatibility: Best for hosting Windows-specific applications, including websites developed in ASP.NET.
- Ease of Use: Offers a familiar interface for users accustomed to Windows environments. It’s generally considered more user-friendly, especially for those not comfortable with command-line interfaces.
- Integrated Environment: Seamless integration with other Microsoft products and services, which can be beneficial for businesses heavily invested in the Microsoft ecosystem.
Ideal for:
- Websites and applications specifically designed for the Windows platform.
- Businesses that use Windows-specific software, databases, or development tools.
Cost of Managed VPS Hosting
The cost of managed VPS hosting can vary widely, typically ranging from $20 to over $2500 per month, depending on factors like CPU power, RAM, and storage provided, as well as other special add-ons (extra offsite backups, firewall, etc).
Entry-Level Plans
Managed VPS hosting can begin as low as $20 to $30 per month for basic plans with limited resources.
Mid-Range Plans
For more robust needs, including increased storage, bandwidth, and processing power, prices typically range from $50 to $100 per month.
Premium Plans
High-end managed VPS hosting, offering extensive resources, superior support, and advanced features, can cost anywhere from $100 to over $250 per month. These plans are ideal for high-traffic websites, eCommerce platforms, and applications that demand high performance and reliability.
Managed VPS vs Non-Managed VPS Hosting
When comparing Managed VPS Hosting and Non-Managed VPS Hosting, it becomes evident that the main distinction lies in the level of service and after-sales support provided by the hosting provider.
Both options offer the virtualization benefits of VPS hosting but cater to different user needs in terms of server management and technical involvement.
Quick Comparison
| Aspect | Managed VPS Hosting | Non-Managed VPS Hosting |
|---|---|---|
| Server Management | Handled by the provider | Responsibility of the user |
| Technical Support | Comprehensive support provided | Limited to basic or infrastructure issues |
| User Involvement | Low; provider handles most tasks | High; requires technical expertise |
| Cost | Higher due to management services | Lower due to lack of management services |
| Ideal For | Users without technical skills or those who prefer convenience | Users with technical skills or specific requirements |
How to Choose a Managed VPS for Your Business?
Your choice in managed VPS hosting should align with your business goals, budget, and technical capability. We will look into some key consideration factors based on different business scenarios:
1. For Startups and Small Businesses
Primary goals: Cost-efficiency, scalability, user-friendliness
If you’re starting up, you need a hosting that’s easy on the wallet, grows with you, and is simple to use. Managed VPS hosting hits all these marks. It’s scalable, so it adjusts with your business size, and it’s user-friendly, meaning you don’t need to be a tech whiz to handle it.
Things to look into when choosing a managed VPS plan:
- Providers with strong customer support: Startups need providers that offer extensive support and user-friendly management tools to handle growth without requiring a large IT team.
- Scalable solutions: Look for providers offering easy scalability to adjust resources as your business grows.
- Cost-effective plans: Since budget is often a constraint, choose providers offering competitive pricing without sacrificing performance and reliability.
2. E-commerce Sites
Primary goals: High performance, reliability, enhanced security
Running an online store? Then you need hosting solution that’s fast, always up, and super secure. Managed VPS ensures your site loads quickly, stays online 24/7, and keeps customer data safe. This way, you keep sales up and worries down.
Things to look into when choosing a managed VPS plan:
- High uptime guarantees: Downtime means lost sales, so a provider with a high uptime guarantee is essential.
- Enhanced security features: Providers offering SSL certificates, DDoS protection, and compliance with standards (e.g., PCI DSS for payment processing) are crucial for protecting customer data.
- Scalable and flexible resources: To accommodate traffic spikes during sales or promotions, choose a provider that allows for quick resource adjustments.
3. Large Enterprises
Primary goals: Maximum uptime, advanced security, dedicated support
For large enterprises and big businesses, downtime is a big no-no, security is critical, and after-sales support has to be on point. A good managed VPS hosting guarantees your site is always available, protected against threats, and backed by experts ready to help. It’s about keeping your operations smooth and secure.
Things to look into when choosing a managed VPS plan:
- Enterprise-grade infrastructure: Look for providers offering dedicated resources, high-performance hardware, and advanced network infrastructure.
- Comprehensive security measures: Enterprises require advanced security, including hardware firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention, and regular backups.
- Customizable solutions: Providers that offer customizable hosting solutions can accommodate specific enterprise needs and regulatory requirements.
4. Developers and Tech-Savvy Users
Primary goals: Flexibility, easy account transfers, development tools.
When you’re building sites or apps for clients, flexibility, development-friendly tools, and hassle-free handoffs are key. A great managed VPS hosting offers the adaptability to tailor to each project, a toolbox for any job, and easy ways to transfer accounts. It makes your work efficient and your clients happy.
Things to look into when choosing a managed VPS plan:
- Root access: Full control over the server environment is crucial for installing custom software or configurations.
- Easy team collaboration: Built-in collaboration features to allow multiple users work in the same account.
- Account ownership transfers: Easy account transfers so deploy the project easily.
- Latest technologies: Providers that support the latest programming languages, databases, and development tools can offer developers the flexibility they need.
- Solid SLA (Service Level Agreement): A clear SLA ensures reliability and performance, critical for development and testing environments.
Final Thought
The Best Managed VPS Fix Your Specific Hosting Needs
Managed VPS hosting solutions are an ideal choice for those who require the flexibility and power of a virtual private server but without the need for in-depth server management knowledge.
The best managed VPS hosting service for you depends on your specific needs, budget, and future growth plans. Always consider reading current user reviews and possibly testing the service via a trial period or money-back guarantee to ensure it meets your requirements.
