To run a website, you will need a rental
server
. However, many of you may be wondering, “I’ve heard of it, but what is it actually like?”
In this article, we will explain the overview and mechanism of rental servers, as well as the points to consider when choosing one from among the many rental servers.
What is a rental server?
Rental server refers to renting a dedicated computer (server) needed to publish your website on the Internet from a server provider. Generally, server management, maintenance, security measures, etc. are handled by the server provider.
How the server works
Before explaining rental servers, it is necessary to deepen your understanding of how the server itself works. A server is a computer that shares and processes data when multiple computers are connected via a network.
With rental servers, multiple users share the same server, so the server provider must allocate server resources appropriately.
Servers typically use fast, stable hardware and operate in highly reliable environments. In addition, security measures such as backup and redundancy are implemented, and various technologies are used to protect user data. Rental servers also have various plans. We will select the optimal plan based on redundancy/security measures and the scale of your website.
Relationship between server and domain
Servers and
domains
are closely related. A domain is
the address
by which users publish their websites on the Internet, and is generally expressed in a format such as “www.example.com.”
When using a rental server, users can use the IP address assigned by the server provider to publish their website. However, since IP addresses are a series of numbers and difficult to remember, it is common to use domains.
Therefore, users can publish their websites on the Internet by acquiring a domain corresponding to their website and registering it with a server provider. Domain names are converted to IP addresses using a system called DNS (Domain Name System). There are various ways to acquire a domain, but if you want to acquire an original domain, use a service such as Onamae.com.
Types of rental servers
There are various types of rental servers, including shared servers, dedicated servers, virtual private servers (VPS), and cloud servers. We will explain the characteristics and suitable uses of each.
shared server
A shared server is a type of rental server where multiple users share and use the same server. They often come at a relatively low price and are suitable for beginners, personal blogs, and small sites.
However, because multiple users use the same server, other users’ traffic and load can affect your website, which can reduce performance. Specifically, the display and movement of the site may become slow, or in the worst case scenario, the website itself may become undisplayable for a certain period of time. Also, from a security perspective, applications and files used by other users can pose security risks.
dedicated server
A dedicated server is a type of rental server where one server is used exclusively by one user. Suitable for large-scale sites, business sites, applications, etc. that require high performance and security.
Dedicated servers are not used by other users, so they can provide fast and reliable performance. Additionally, in terms of security, your company can implement its own security measures and operate without worrying about security risks posed by other users.
However, plans for dedicated servers are often more expensive than shared servers, and you are responsible for management, maintenance, security measures, etc., so specialized knowledge and skills are required.
Virtual Private Server (VPS)
A virtual private server (VPS) is a type of rental server that allows multiple users to share the same physical server while providing each user with a virtually independent environment.
VPS is also used when high performance and security like a dedicated server is required, but since it is offered at a lower price than a dedicated server, it is suitable for small and medium-sized businesses, sole traders, hobby blogs, etc. is also suitable.
Additionally, since VPS provides a virtual environment, it is less affected by the load of other users and can deliver higher stability and performance. Also, just like with a dedicated server, you can implement your own security measures.
cloud server
A cloud server is a service configured by combining multiple virtual servers using cloud computing technology. Cloud servers are highly configurable, have automatic scaling, redundancy features, and high availability, making them suitable for large-scale websites and business applications.
Cloud servers may require more advanced operations than other servers. Cloud servers are basically operated at your own risk, so operators need advanced knowledge and technology regarding cloud computing.
Additionally, cloud servers are charged based on usage, so even if the initial cost is low, the cost may become high depending on usage.
What you can do with a rental server
A rental server is a service that serves as the foundation for users to carry out various activities on the Internet. Here, we will introduce three points about what you can do using a rental server.
Use of email address
By using a rental server, you can create an email address using your own original domain name. An email address that uses your own original domain name can give you a professional image, whether you’re a business or a sole proprietor.
You can also create multiple email accounts on a rental server, so you can share them with team members, project members, or even your family if you are an individual. Rental server email functionality generally supports protocols such as IMAP, POP3, and SMTP, and if you require more advanced email functionality, you can also use webmail or external clients.
Operation of homepage
By using a rental server, you can operate your own
homepage
. A homepage can be used to promote yourself or your company, operate an online shop, post blogs, etc.
Homepages can be created using languages such as
HTML
,
CSS
, and
JavaScript
. Additionally, rental servers come standard with popular web servers such as Apache and Nginx, allowing you to build your own website.
Additionally, rental servers may come standard with general web applications and
CMS
(content management systems). There are CMS services like
WordPress
. WordPress is the world’s most used CMS, and even beginners can easily create a website.
Management of online shop
By using a rental server, you can run an online shop. Online shops allow you to sell products manufactured and sold by your company or individuals, as well as products from other companies. An online shop set up on a rental server can be accessed by people all over the world, allowing you to expand your sales area.
In order to run an online shop, it is common to use online shop software that is compatible with rental servers. Typical online shop software includes EC-CUBE, Magento, and Shopify. These software are equipped with necessary functions such as product registration, inventory management, and order management, making it easy to run an online shop.
Additionally, in order to operate an online shop, it is necessary to obtain an SSL (Secure Socket Layer) certificate. SSL certificates can encrypt communications between your website and your users’ browsers, preventing personal and credit card information from being leaked.
If you are running a website for the first time, we recommend a shared server.
In order to post your information on the Internet, you need to rent a rental server. If you are running a website for the first time, we recommend a shared server.
Shared servers are cheaper than operating a single server because many people are using the same server. It is also recommended for those with little specialized knowledge, as it is easy to manage even for beginners.
Can be managed even with little specialized knowledge
Since multiple people use the same server, shared servers are often set up by the administrator from the beginning, making them easy to manage even for beginners. For example, if you use WordPress, you can install it from the admin screen. You can make the necessary settings yourself, so you can operate it without any specialized knowledge.
Can be used immediately after application
You can use the shared server immediately after applying. You can use the server immediately by entering the necessary information in the application form and making the payment. When creating your first homepage, being able to publish your website immediately is a big advantage.
no cost
A shared server costs less than a server operated by a small number of people. Shared servers are used by many people, so you can share the cost of purchasing and maintaining the server. Also, if this is your first homepage, a shared server may be sufficient as it requires less space. With a shared server, you can run your first homepage at low cost.
5 points when choosing a rental server
When choosing a rental server, it is important to choose a plan that suits your purpose. Below are five points to consider when choosing a rental server.
Is the capacity suitable for the purpose of use?
Rental server capacity is an essential element for storing data and files. It is important to select a capacity that matches the purpose of use. For example, a few GB of storage space is sufficient for a blog or homepage, but an online shop requires a large amount of storage space to store product images and data.
Does the function suit the purpose of use?
Rental servers are equipped with various functions. Therefore, it is important to choose a plan with features that suit your purpose of use. For example, if you run an online shop, you need to choose a plan that supports online shop software such as EC-CUBE, Magento, and Shopify.
Is the company reliable?
The reliability of a company that provides rental servers is one of the important points. It is important to choose a company that has stable server operations and security measures in place. It is also a good idea to check the track record of the service since it started providing the service and the reputation of users.
Can it be used at a reasonable price?
Rental server usage fees vary depending on the company. It’s important to choose a plan that suits your needs and make sure you get the right price. You may also want to check initial costs, renewal costs, usage fees for optional services, etc.
Is there sufficient support?
When using a rental server, it is extremely important that you receive appropriate support when a problem or problem occurs. Especially for first-time users, there are many things they don’t understand, so it’s reassuring to have support that can quickly respond to inquiries.
Support systems vary by company, including email support,
chat
support, and telephone support. Other points to consider are whether they are available 24 hours a day and whether they have specialized staff.
Flow of rental server contract
In order to create a website, you need to contract for a rental server. Contracts can be completed online, so you can easily complete the process from the comfort of your own home. Below, we will explain the flow of the rental server contract.
Decide on a company to rent a server from
First, you need to choose a company that provides rental servers. There are many companies that offer this service, but in order to choose the one that is suitable for your website, you need to consider the following points.
- Are the capacity and functions suitable for the purpose of use?
- Is the company reliable?
- Can it be used at a reasonable price?
- Is there sufficient support?
Based on these points, choose a company that provides a rental server that suits you.
Get a domain
In order to create a website, you need to obtain a domain. A domain is an address that identifies a website, and is expressed in a format such as “example.com”. The domain must be acquired separately from the rental server contract.
Domains can be obtained from domain providers or rental server providers. Domain providers include JPRS and GMO Pepabo.
When acquiring a domain, you must enter registrant information. Registrant information includes name, address, telephone number, etc. It is important that you enter your registrant information accurately.
Domain association
Next, you need to associate the rental server with the domain. Association is a setting that connects a domain and a rental server and publishes the content on the rental server as a website.
There are two methods:
The way to change
DNS
settings is to set DNS records from the domain management screen. DNS records contain information that associates your domain with the IP address of your rental server. When changing DNS settings, it may take some time for the DNS records to be reflected after the settings are changed.
The way to change the domain name server to a rental server is to set the name server provided by the rental server company on the domain management screen. This method is easier than changing DNS settings and takes less time to reflect.
summary
In this article, we explained about rental servers.
- A rental server is a computer that is connected to the Internet, and by renting it, you can operate your website and email without having to prepare your own server.
- There are four types of servers: shared servers, dedicated servers, virtual private servers (VPS), and cloud servers, each with their own advantages and disadvantages.
- By using a rental server, you can do a variety of things such as use email addresses, operate a website, and operate an online shop.・When choosing a rental server, you need to consider things such as capacity, functionality, reliability of the company, fees, and level of support.
- A shared server is recommended for your first homepage operation. It has the advantages of being able to manage it even with little specialized knowledge, being able to use it immediately after applying, and being inexpensive.
- Rental servers allow you to easily operate websites and email without having to prepare your own server, so they can be used for your first homepage operations or personal blogs. When choosing a server, it is important to choose a server that suits your purpose and understand the contract process.