Virtual Private Servers
One of Linux’s many strength’s is its highly suitable web hosting options. Primarily Apache web server on Linux with various open source applications can provide cheap solutions for hosting needs.
The most commonly used hosting option is Virtual Hosting through Apache. With a simple setup, hundreds of unique websites can be run with 1 single server machine. For about $100 (US) a year, you can get a good set of features from most providers. However, most providers limit your options (minimal email, limited databases, no Java App Server, etc.).
Until recently, the next best solution was Dedicated Hosting. This requires rental or ownship of a specific server machine and managing it yourself. Multiple virtual websites can be hosted and depending on the hardware it can have other services as well. However the cost is significantly higher. Most providers change at least $50 per month for basic hardware/features and it is fairly typical to see prices of $100-200 (plus fees) per month for competitive features.
The technology has been around for quite some time, but Virtual Private Servers (VPS) are recently becoming more popular. This is the process of running multiple instances of Linux and Apache on the same machine. Every VPS on the machine gets a percentage of CPU, disk space, etc. Then each VPS can then host whatever they want without the need to maintain server hardware. When they need to be rebooted, the whole machine is not rebooting bringing down other VPS’s on the same machine - more of software reset than hardware reboot. Software such as Virtuozzo is becoming a popular product from many providers. You can find hosting plans offering VPS from $20-40 per month.
Once I hear some good reliable reviews on VPS services I plan to migrate to that option. I’d welcome any comments on how well these services work.