What Are The 7 Types Of Web Hosting?

Web hosting type is the classification of hosting services based on key attributes such as server infrastructure and distribution of resources. These directly influence cost, performance, user-friendliness, flexibility, maintenance, security, and scalability for website owners.

The 7 main hosting types are shared hosting, WordPress hosting, VPS hosting, dedicated server hosting, cloud hosting, reseller hosting, and colocation hosting. Most of these come in both unmanaged and managed hosting forms. The difference between managed vs unmanaged hosting is that managed hosting provides technical support and maintenance, while unmanaged hosting requires users to handle updates, backups, and security themselves.

Choosing the right hosting type starts with assessing your website’s specific needs, such as its purpose, platform, and expected traffic. For example, portfolio websites and eCommerce sites have different needs and are best matched with different hosting types.

1. Shared Hosting

Shared Hosting is a type of web hosting where multiple websites share a single server’s resources such as CPU, RAM, and bandwidth. Shared Hosting works by pre-configuring server environments and managing its maintenance. Shared Hosting is known to offer affordable plans with user-friendly features.

There are 5 pros of Shared Hosting. The first is affordability because costs are split among users. The second is accessibility since most web hosts sell this form of hosting. The third is beginner-friendliness. The fourth is maintenance-free management, as the host handles updates. The fifth is scalability for growing websites.

There are 4 cons of Shared Hosting. The first is volatile performance because other sites affect stability. The second is limited resources per user. The third is needing to share an IP address. The fourth is higher security risks due to shared environments.

Shared Hosting is best for low-traffic and static websites.

2. WordPress Hosting

WordPress Hosting is a type of hosting optimized for WordPress websites. It works by providing servers configured to meet WordPress requirements like PHP and MySQL, along with tools like caching and CDN integration for performance. WordPress hosting providers simplify WordPress site management with features like staging environments and WP-CLI support.

There are 3 pros of WordPress Hosting. The first is optimized WordPress performance, as servers are tailored for speed and reliability. The second is improved WordPress security thanks to automated updates and patches. The third is simplified WordPress site management via specialized WordPress support and staging tools.

There are 3 cons of WordPress Hosting. The first is limited flexibility since it is tailored to sites built on the WordPress CMS only. The second is restricted resources. The third is higher costs compared to general shared hosting.

WordPress Hosting is best for blogs and portfolios built on WordPress, and WooCommerce stores.

3. VPS Hosting

VPS Hosting is a web hosting type where a physical server is divided into virtual servers, each with dedicated resources. It works by using virtualization technology to create isolated environments for better control and performance.

There are 4 pros of VPS hosting. The first is reliable performance, with dedicated CPU and RAM. The second is enhanced server control, enabling root access and custom configurations. The third is scalability, as resources can be upgraded as needed. The fourth is improved security, with isolation reducing the risk of breaches.

There are 2 cons of VPS hosting. The first is higher costs, as dedicated resources are more expensive. The second is technical complexity, with unmanaged plans requiring server management expertise.

VPS hosting is best for resource-heavy websites, developers, and eCommerce platforms needing security and reliability.

4. Dedicated Server Hosting

Dedicated Server Hosting is a type of hosting where users rent an entire server and get exclusive access and control over its resources.

There are 3 pros of Dedicated Server Hosting. The first is superior performance since there is no competition for resources. The second is high security since isolated server environments reduce risks. The third is control over the server.

There are 2 cons of Dedicated Server Hosting. The first is higher costs because exclusive servers are expensive by default. The second is that setting up and maintaining this type of hosting requires a high level of technical expertise, particularly for unmanaged dedicated server plans.

Dedicated server hosting is best for high-traffic websites, resource-intensive tasks, and industries needing strict compliance.

5. Cloud Hosting

Cloud Hosting is a type of hosting that uses a network of servers to distribute resources dynamically. It works by pooling server resources to ensure scalability and reliability.

There are 4 pros of Cloud Hosting. The first is dynamic scalability, adjusting resources to traffic needs. The second is flexibility, allowing users to modify resources as required. The third is reliability, minimizing downtime with redundancy. The fourth is cost efficiency, using pay-as-you-go pricing to avoid excess costs.

There are 2 cons of Cloud Hosting. The first is cost unpredictability because bills rise with traffic surges. The second is technical complexity.

Cloud hosting is best for businesses with fluctuating traffic or growing demands.

6. Reseller Hosting

Reseller Hosting is a type of hosting where users buy server resources in bulk and resell them to clients. It works by leasing server space and using white-label tools to manage client accounts under the reseller’s branding. It also provides client management and billing tools.

There are 2 pros of reseller hosting. The first is revenue generation. The second is accessibility into the hosting market, as it eliminates the need for owning or managing server infrastructure.

There are 2 cons of reseller hosting. The first is dependency on host providers. The second is client support responsibilities since resellers need to handle billing and technical issues.

Reseller hosting is best for developers, agencies, or entrepreneurs managing multiple websites.

7. Colocation Hosting

Colocation Hosting, also known as “co-located hosting” is a type of hosting where businesses place their own servers in third-party data centers. The web host provides infrastructure like power, temperature control, and internet connectivity while clients maintain control of the actual server hardware.

There are 3 pros of Colocation Hosting. The first is allowing the business to maintain full server control including the server hardware. The second is high security since your server is housed in a physically secure location. The third is cost-effective access to premium infrastructure.

There are 2 cons of Colocation Hosting. The first is high initial costs, as businesses must purchase and maintain expensive server hardware. The second is technical expertise since the responsibility of server management lies with the business.

Colocation hosting is best for businesses needing strict data control and compliance.

Managed Vs Unmanaged Hosting: What’s The Difference?

The difference between managed hosting and unmanaged hosting lies in the level of technical support provided by the host.

Managed hosting refers to hosting plans where the web host’s support team handles the technical aspects of a website. This includes routine tasks like automatic updates, backups, security optimizations. Managed hosting services are commonly available in the forms of VPS, dedicated server hosting, and cloud hosting. Shared and WordPress hosting are both inherently managed hosting types.

Unmanaged hosting refers to hosting plans that only provide basic server resources and leave customers responsible for server management. Unmanaged hosting services are commonly available in the form of VPS, dedicated server hosting, cloud hosting and colocation hosting.

Managed hosting therefore simplifies server management for the customer and offers greater convenience compared to unmanaged hosting. Unmanaged hosting offers cheaper prices but is better suited to users with technical expertise. Learn more about the differences between managed and unmanaged hosting.

Does Unmanaged Shared Hosting Exist?

No, unmanaged shared hosting does not exist because shared hosting is inherently managed by the web hosting provider. The host takes full responsibility for server administration, security, and maintenance. Users get limited administration privileges.

What Does Managed WordPress Hosting Mean?

Managed WordPress hosting means the hosting provider takes care of routine technical tasks such as WordPress version and plugin updates, automatic site backups, and ongoing server optimization.

Managed VPS Vs Managed Cloud Hosting: Is There A Difference?

Yes, there is a difference between managed VPS and managed cloud hosting in how their server infrastructure is set up. Managed VPS operates on a single server divided into virtual partitions with dedicated resources. Managed cloud hosting uses a network of servers to provide dynamic resource allocation. The managed services of each hosting type are tailored to their specific infrastructure.

Is Unmanaged Dedicated Hosting Technically Demanding?

Yes, unmanaged dedicated hosting is technically demanding because users are responsible for server setup, installing the operating system, managing security, and performing updates and maintenance. This often requires root access and familiarity with command-line tools.

How Does My Website Needs Influence The Choice Of Web Hosting Type?

Your website needs influence the choice of web hosting type by defining priorities for performance, scalability, features, and value.

For example, the needs of a small portfolio site are well-served by shared hosting. The needs of a high-traffic eCommerce site are well-served by cloud hosting. Understanding your website’s needs is therefore the first step to selecting a web hosting solution. This process provides clarity on what your website requires to succeed and allows you to match those needs to the strengths of each of the 7 hosting types.

How Do I Understand My Website Needs?

To understand your website needs, focus on 3 key aspects: purpose, platform, and expected traffic. Firstly, identify the primary purpose of your website. Whether you are sharing information, selling products, or building a community, the purpose determines the hosting features and resources required. Secondly, evaluate the platform your website uses to understand its technical and compatibility requirements. Finally, estimate your site’s traffic to understand the hosting resources needed to keep it online.

Which Hosting Type Is The Most Suitable For A Blog?

Shared hosting is the most suitable hosting type for a blog. The best blogging platforms combine the affordability of shared hosting with beginner-friendly design tools that simplify the process of creating, managing and monetizing blogs.

Which Hosting Type Is The Most Suitable For A WordPress Site?

WordPress hosting is the most suitable hosting type for a WordPress site. The best WordPress hosting provides WordPress-optimized environments with 1-click installations, automatic core updates, and WordPress-specific support.

Which Hosting Type Is The Most Suitable For An eCommerce Website?

Cloud Hosting is the most suitable hosting type for an eCommerce website. The best cloud hosting delivers the generous resources and scalability needed to handle high traffic and seasonal spikes during sales events.

Which Hosting Type Is The Most Suitable For A Portfolio Website?

Shared Hosting is the most suitable hosting type for a portfolio website. The best shared hosting is budget-friendly and provides user-friendly tools that help you launch a professional online presence.

Which Hosting Type Is The Most Suitable For A Business Website?

Shared hosting or VPS hosting is the most suitable hosting type for a business website. Shared hosting suits simple and small company websites while VPS hosting suits eCommerce websites. The best business hosting makes sure to provide high server speeds, a 99.9% uptime guarantee and email hosting for a fair price.

Which Hosting Type Is The Most Suitable For A Booking Website?

Shared hosting and VPS hosting are the most suitable hosting type for a booking website. Shared hosting works for small sites with low traffic, but as a site grows, it needs higher uptime and reliability to ensure smooth appointment scheduling. The best VPS hosting ensures maximum uptime and speed by giving users isolated resources and high control.

Which Hosting Type Is The Most Suitable For A High-Availability Website?

Dedicated server hosting is the most suitable hosting type for a high-availability website. High-availability websites require constant accessibility even under heavy traffic or system failures. The best dedicated hosting ensures maximum uptime by providing an entire server’s resources and allowing users full control over their security configurations.

Which Hosting Type Is The Most Suitable For A Web Design Agency?

Reseller hosting is the most suitable hosting type for a web design agency. The best reseller hosting provides high resource allocations and management tools like WHMCS to easily manage multiple web design clients. This allows agencies to bundle hosting with web design services and make use of offer staging environments. 

Which Hosting Type Is The Most Suitable For A Static Website?

Shared hosting is the most suitable hosting type for a static website. Static websites serve fixed HTML, CSS, and JavaScript files without server-side processing or databases. The best static hosting combines affordable shared hosting with reliable performance. This saves users from paying for unnecessary resources or overly-complex server configurations

Which Hosting Type Is The Most Suitable For Hosting A Game Server?

VPS hosting or dedicated server hosting are the most suitable hosting types for hosting a game server. The best game server hosts combine the dedicated resources of these types of hosting with low-latency connections, easy mod installation and fast customer support.

Which Hosting Type Is The Most Suitable For A Forum Website?

VPS Hosting is the most suitable hosting type for a forum website. VPS hosting handles high user activity and offers the flexibility to manage traffic spikes. It’s a reliable choice for community platforms.