Dedicated servers FAQ
- What are the main advantages of having a dedicated server?
- What can I use a dedicated server for?
- Can I install my own programs?
- Will you manage my dedicated server?
- Do you have a service level agreement (SLA)?
- Is there a minimum contract for a dedicated server?
- How can I back up my data?
- How long does it take to set up a dedicated server?
- Can you build me a dedicated server to a custom specification?
- My question is not answered here. How can I get more help?
What are the main advantages of having a dedicated server?
A dedicated server gives you much more power and capacity than you get with shared hosting. An entire, physical server is yours - you do not have to share the processing capacity, disk space or memory with anyone else.
What can I use a dedicated server for?
Typically, dedicated servers are used to host complex, busy websites which have outgrown a shared hosting package.
They are also used by businesses which need to use non-standard applications for some reason. Unlike shared hosting, you can install whatever software you like onto a dedicated server.
Can I install my own programs?
You can install whatever applications you like onto your dedicated server. We will grant you full root access or administrator rights, giving you complete freedom to use the server for whatever you want.
Unlike many dedicated server providers, we will continue to manage and update the operating system and all pre-installed applications on your server, even if you make use of root access to install your own applications.
Please note that in some exceptional circumstances, modifications you make to the server may make it impossible for us to continue to manage it. This is unusual - we always do our absolute best to accommodate your needs.
Will you manage my dedicated server?
Yes, we can fully manage your dedicated server. This means we will apply all hotfixes, updates and security patches as required.
Please note that we will only manage the pre-installed operating system and applications. If you install your own applications, please maintain them yourself.
Do you have a service level agreement?
Yes, we promise an exceptional level of service. You can read the full SLA here, but in summary, we promise:
- 100% network uptime. If our service fails (very unlikely), we will refund you cost of a day's service for each hour it is unavailable.
- Five minute engineer. If you experience a critical issue, an engineer will be working on it within 5 minutes of you telling us.
- Instant replacement. If a piece of hardware fails, we will replace it straight away (we maintain stocks of spares, just in case).
- Price freeze. We will never change the price we charge you during your contract, even if prices rise for new customers.
Is there a minimum contract for a dedicated server?
There is a 12 month minimum contract on our dedicated servers. This period is a necessary term, as dedicated server customers effectively lease part of our data centre. However, sign up for more than one year, and you can make significant savings. Call us on 0845 226 5566 for more information.
How can I back up my data?
All dedicated servers except our Velocity option include hardware RAID. This mirrors all your data across two drives, protecting you in the event of one failing.
If you wish to take additional backups, our offsite backup service creates a secure copy of your data each night. This is stored at a secure offsite location. See our server upgrades for more information.
How long does it take to set up a dedicated server?
We maintain a stock of servers ready to go, so we can usually have you up and running very quickly after you place your order. Typically this will is within an hour or two - though occasionally it might take a bit longer.
Can you build me a dedicated server to a custom specification?
We always try and meet the needs of our customers. If you have specific requirements which are not met by our standard dedicated server range, please contact us on 0845 226 5566. We will advise on alternative options.
My question is not answered here. How can I get more help?
Our sales team is available 8am - 8pm during the week and 9am - 5.30pm on Saturdays. You can call them on 0845 226 5566. They will answer your questions so you can be sure you choose the right dedicated server.