Server hosting is a way of using software based on the web. It does not require installation of any software pieces on your desktop computer. Instead any applications, databases or files are located on a computer in the internet. This is normally maintained by a host provider for a monthly subscription fee.
A person will find different types of managed support. The most basic of these is usually offered for free. They usually provide a web page and very basic file storage where files can be uploaded. Fully managed ones include monitoring, software updates, reboots, security patches and operating system upgrades, these are normally a lot more expensive.
Virtual dedicated or VPS hosting is when a web host has a computer and they have partitioned it into many different virtual machines. They can do this with virtualization software and is becoming more popular. There are multiple sites on a single server, so each account ends up sharing space with other users.
With a VPS, each virtual machine is rented to an individual or business. They are private and separate from other virtual machines that are in the same computer. However it is normally inflexible and restricts the level of interactivity of the website. This increases the risk of other users being on the same server. It is not recommended for websites that generate high traffic volumes. Sometimes an individual with one of these is responsible for fixing and maintaining it.
Dedicated hosting allows an individual rent an entire server from a company. The Person has full control of the website and will own the software applications and content. They have better reliability and stability. There are normally more expensive to start up and maintain. This type is more suited to websites that are busier.
Managed hosting is where a person pays a subscription for their own web space but is not allowed full control over it. They may be able to manage any data they have on there. The service provider has more responsibility for the maintenance, monitoring, updates and back up of the server. The provider guarantees quality by not allowing the customer to modify it or potentially create configuration problems. This is more suited to people or businesses that do not have the technical know how to carry out the tasks themselves.
Saas or Software as a service is sometimes referred to as software on demand. This is made available to customers over the internet and runs behind a firewall on a local area network or a personal computer. It is a service where a company can sell software to a customer or business over the internet. This is a new way of selling software, the more traditional way is on disks or cds.
With software on demand, a customer would not need to install anything onto their computer with this method. A company licences an application to a person or business either as an on demand, subscription or pay as you go service. Sometimes there may be no charge for a Saas if there is an opportunity to make money from advertisements or user list sales.