In modern enterprises, information technology has taken the center-stage which in turn has raised the need for efficient and safe server solutions to host data, applications, and the entire organizational network. One of the leading and famous used server operating systems is Windows Server. But what is a windows server and does it provide hosting services? At Hostaix we intend to answer these queries and illustrate how Windows Server can enhance your business infrastructure.
What is Windows Server?
Windows Server is a family of server operating systems produced by microsoft. It is keen on dealing with business level responsibilities such as supervising the network’s resources, application hosting, providing data storage as well as business web services. Unlike the ordinary Windows Operating system used in desktops and laptops, Windows Server is tuned for server hardware and business environments.
Some Windows Server functions are:
- Active Directory: helps organize users and devices in addition to partitioning security elements of the accounts on a computer network.
- File and Storage Services: provide data storage in a central location along with file sharing and security services.
- Remote Desktop Services: supports various users to use a Windows desktop on another location.
- Hyper-V: This service aids the customer virtualize to run multiple virtual machines and operate them on one physical server which is owned by the business, expanded by Microsoft.
- Web Server (IIS): For hosting websites and web applications, use Internet Information Services.
- Networking and Security: These are network firewall tools for access control and network encryption.Â
Windows Server is offered in different editions such as Standard and Datacenter or Essentials tailored to various sizes of businesses.
Is Windows Server a Hosted Service?
This is a frequently asked question. The answer varies on how you implement Windows Server.
1. Windows Server as On-Premise Software
In most cases, businesses install Windows Server on their physical servers that are kept at their business premises. In this case, the company owns the hardware, IT environment, and the Windows Server software. Responsibility for maintenance, updates, backups, and security is solely on you.Â
2. Windows Server as a Hosted Service
You can also use Windows Server as a hosted service. In this case, the software operates on a Windows Server and is installed on servers maintained by a third party like Hostaix. These servers are placed in data centers that have high-speed internet connections, secondary power supplies, and backups which make them secure.
In this hosted environment:
- You lease server resources instead of buying physical hardware. Â
- Maintenance on hardware, network infrastructure, and physical security are on the hosting provider. Â
- Investments on hardware are eliminated and you start enjoying the benefits of Windows Server.
- You can quickly adjust such resources as CPU, RAM, and even storage to suit the requirements of your business. Â
- Flexibility for businesses with remote teams is possible since access can be done from remote locations. Â
The Windows Server Operating System (OS) is installed and managed according to your needs in Virtual Private Servers (VPS) and Dedicated Servers, which are Hosted Windows Server services. Â
Benefits of Using Hostaix’s Hosted Windows Server Services
In Hosting, we offer dependable Windows Server hosting services with optimal application uptime, security, and performance, specially tailored for your business.
- Cost Efficiency: Eliminate the initial costs of purchasing and maintaining hardware. Â
- Scalability: Easily increase your server resources as your business expands. Â
- Security: Data center access control measures are both physical and digital. Â
- Expert Support: Technical staff provides assistance for configuration, setup, and even system management and troubleshooting. Â
- High Availability: Your services will stay online due to redundant infrastructure. Â
Conclusion
Windows Server is a powerful and versatile operating system that can be tailored to aid in the management and support of an enterprise IT infrastructure. Its deployment has predominantly been done on premise, but its use is becoming more common as a hosted service since it is more flexible, scalable, and cost effective for businesses.
If quality, secure, scalable, and managed Windows Server hosting is what you seek, then Hostaix is your trusted partner. Reach out to us today and discover more about our plans for Windows Server hosting and how they can enhance your business growth effortlessly in this digital era.