A dedicated server is usually perceived as a standard physical server located in racks of data centers. Only one client can use the one’s services – you personally (individual) or a company. It is the main distinguishing feature of a dedicated server compared to a virtual server (VPS). Such servers are most often used for games. Purchasing a dedicated server is not always relevant; you can just rent it.
Strengths and weaknesses of cheap dedicated servers
Many companies and organizations miss several critical key points when searching for a cheap dedicated server. A server of this type, regardless of price, has many advantages. Everyone who plans to find inexpensive to maintain and the reliable game server is obliged to know about them. So, the following are among the main advantages of a dedicated server:
- High resource intensity (optimal solution for hosting a gaming website or application)
- Suitable operating system selection (the game server can be deployed at the request of the customer based on Windows Server or Linux)
- The tenant or buyer of the server has the right to choose the desired set of configurations (a dedicated server offers significantly more scaling options than the usual VPS)
- High server protection against unauthorized access by third parties (when using a VPS, failures are likely due to DDoS attacks targeting a website or even service of another company based on the same physical server)
When servicing such a server, specialists can fine-tune it, as well as, at the request of the customer, install any types of software on it
Among the disadvantages of this type of server:
- A higher price tag when buying or renting than classic hosting or VPS.
- Availability of administration skills (complex functionality configuration, the need to understand management in detail)
- The need to configure backups on your own (or regularly contact technical support for help)
How to choose a location for a dedicated game server?
While selecting the cheap dedicated server’s location, where the games will be hosted, it is crucial to consider several fundamental nuances – the speed of the Internet connection and the physical remoteness of the server from specific target users. The location of the dedicated server will directly impact the response speed, which in turn will influence the gaming experience quality.
Fundamental criteria for choosing a dedicated server for games
The criteria to consider when choosing a dedicated game server are similar to the requirements for selecting servers for other types of hosting. Still, there are a few key features that you should take into account.
Reliability
Performance level
Technical support
Focusing on the price tag of a dedicated server, be sure to consider its reliability. This concept also includes security, uptime, and stability of its operation. Any game servers somehow attract the attention of hackers, so do not forget about security. Regarding the frequency of organized DDoS attacks, game servers are in third place. Reliable dedicated servers have a powerful firewall and robust protection against DDoS attacks.
Performance metrics also play a significant role. The ideal server, rented or purchased at an affordable price, should be equipped with SSD drives, localized in a network with a developed and stable infrastructure. Trusted Internet providers must guarantee access to such a server. Pay attention to the RAM amount. For example, the recommended amount for Linux is 5 GB of RAM to support games with the simultaneous connection of 3-5 players with a graphical interface and 3 GB for 5-8 users using consoles.
Due to the setting up complexity, maintaining a dedicated server is almost impossible without regular contact with technical support. When it comes to online games, you must be sure of the server’s smooth operation at any time of the day or night. Therefore, you need to look for a solution with a reliable hosting provider that you can always rely on. Large hosting providers often offer customers the additional services of a support staff team, which simplifies their operation and improves the quality of work.
Conclusion
When choosing a dedicated server for games, in addition to the price, do not forget to pay attention to several technical parameters. It makes no sense to rent or purchase a dedicated server that will be constantly under DDoS attacks (low security) and have insufficient capacity (low-performance level).