What is Managed Website Hosting? | Pixelcarve

What is Managed Web Hosting and How Does it Work?

Ever felt like your website has become a technical monster you struggle to control? You’re not alone. Website management, especially for those without a strong technical background, can be a daunting task.

It is estimated that slow-loading websites cost the US economy more than $500 million annually, with a one-second delay decreasing conversion rates by as high as 7%

Juggling server maintenance, security updates, software installations, and performance optimization can quickly eat away at valuable time spent focusing on your core business. This is where managed website hosting steps in. 

As Curtis Priest, CEO of Pixelcarve, says, “Managed website hosting empowers you to reclaim your time and focus on what matters most.” 

Let’s explore managed website hosting, how it works, and why it might be the perfect solution for your website problems.

What Do We Mean by Managed Website Hosting?

Managed website hosting is a web hosting service that goes beyond just storing your website’s files. It offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to take the technical burden off your shoulders. A managed hosting company is your dedicated IT and web development team, handling all the back-end tasks that keep your website running smoothly and securely.

Here’s what a typical managed website hosting plan might include:

• Server Management: This includes tasks like operating system updates, security patching, performance monitoring, and resource allocation.

• Security Measures: Did you know more than 30,000 websites get hacked each day? Managed hosting companies take proactive steps to safeguard your website from online threats. This can include firewalls, intrusion detection systems, malware scanning, and regular security audits.

• Software Management: The hosting provider handles software installations, updates, and configuration for your website’s content management system (CMS), extensions, plugins, and other applications.

• Backups and Disaster Recovery: Regular backups ensure your website data is safe and can be restored quickly in case of unforeseen circumstances.

• Technical Support: Managed hosting plans typically come with technical support from experienced professionals who can troubleshoot any website issues you encounter.

Managed vs. Unmanaged Hosting: Choosing the Right Fit

There are two main types of web hosting: managed and unmanaged. Understanding the key differences will help you decide which option best suits your needs.

Unmanaged Hosting

With unmanaged hosting, you rent server space from a provider, but you are responsible for all the technical aspects of managing your website. This requires technical expertise and can be time-consuming. While unmanaged hosting is typically cheaper, it’s a better fit for experienced users comfortable handling server administration tasks.

Managed Hosting

Managed website hosting is a great option for website owners who lack the technical knowledge, don’t have an internal IT and web team, or simply don’t have the time to manage their website’s technical aspects. It allows them to focus on their core business while the hosting company handles the technical complexities.

Think of website hosting as renting an apartment. You get the space, but you’re responsible for everything inside it. Managed website hosting is like renting a fully-furnished apartment with a maintenance team, superintendent, and cleaner – less for you to worry about.

Choosing the Right Option:

• Unmanaged website hosting suits technically savvy users who want full control over their website, can handle server maintenance tasks, and are comfortable with website code and database management. It’s also typically cheaper.

• Managed website hosting is ideal for those who want a hands-off approach, have limited technical knowledge, or have a high-traffic website requiring constant performance and security.

Benefits of Managed Website Hosting

There are several compelling reasons to consider switching to a managed website hosting plan:

• Improved Performance and Uptime: Managed hosting providers proactively optimize your website’s performance and ensure maximum uptime. This translates to a faster, more reliable website for your visitors.

• Enhanced Security: Managed hosting offers robust security measures to protect your website from cyberattacks. This includes firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and regular security audits, giving you peace of mind.

• Reduced Time Commitment: Outsourcing website management tasks frees up valuable time that can be better spent growing your business.

• Expert Support: Managed hosting plans come with access to a team of technical experts who can troubleshoot any website issues you encounter.

• Peace of Mind: Knowing that your website is in the hands of professionals allows you to focus on what matters most – your business.

More resources you might like:  Top 11 Web Hosting Security Best Practices15 Common Web Design Mistakes to Steer Clear of in 2024The Essential Website Maintenance Checklist for 2024

How Does Managed Website Hosting Work?

The specific workings of managed website hosting can vary between providers, but the general process follows these steps:

• Choosing a Managed Hosting Plan: Select a managed hosting plan that meets your website’s needs and budget. Many providers offer different tiers with varying degrees of service.

• Migrating Your Website: The hosting company will assist you in migrating your website’s files and databases to their servers. This process is usually smooth and efficient.

• Server Management: The hosting provider takes over the responsibility of managing your website server, ensuring smooth operation and optimal performance.

• Security Measures: The provider implements robust security measures to protect your website from cyberattacks.

• Software Management: The hosting company manages software updates and configurations for your website’s CMS and other applications.

• Technical Support: You gain access to a dedicated technical support team that can address any website issues you encounter.

Pixelcarve Makes Managed Website Hosting Made Easy

By taking the technical burden off your plate, managed website hosting allows you to focus on what you do best – running your business. With improved performance, enhanced security, and expert support, managed hosting is a wise investment for any website owner who values a smooth-running and secure online presence.

Our experts at Pixelcarve are passionate about helping businesses thrive online. We offer a range of customizable managed website hosting plans to fit your specific needs and budget. Our commitment goes beyond just servers – we provide ongoing support and strategic guidance to ensure your website is a powerful tool for growth.

There are about 330,000 web hosting providers worldwide. Ensure you choose the right one! Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and see how we can unleash your website’s potential!