◦ Comprehensive security
◦ Support
VPS → Self-Managed VPS
What is a self-managed VPS?
A self-managed VPS—also known as an unmanaged VPS—is a hosting solution where the user is responsible for server management and maintenance. Unlike a managed VPS, where the hosting provider takes care of server maintenance, security, software updates, and troubleshooting, a self-managed VPS gives you full control but requires some technical knowledge.
A self-managed VPS is a good option for devs and sysadmins who want complete control over their hosting environment, or other tech-savvy users who are comfortable with server responsibility.
It’s also a good option for organizations and/or projects that require custom software stacks or configs, or for any cost-conscious user who wants the lowest possible investment.
Get premium VPS hosting
High-performance VPS hosting that delivers unrivaled power
If you’re not comfortable managing a server on your own, managed VPS hosting might be a better fit, as it includes support, maintenance, and security handled by the hosting provider.
Benefits of a self-managed VPS
A self-managed VPS offers several key benefits, especially for users who have the technical skills to handle server administration.
1. Full control and customization
With a self-managed VPS, you have complete control over the server environment. You can:
- Choose your preferred operating system (Linux or Windows).
- Configure security settings and firewall rules to match your needs.
This level of flexibility is ideal for developers and businesses with specific performance or security requirements.
2. Lower cost
Since you’re not paying for management services, self-managed VPS plans are cheaper than managed VPS plans. This makes them a great option for:
- Developers running multiple test environments.
- Startups or businesses operating on a tight budget.
- Hobbyists or advanced users who don’t need hands-on support.
3. Better performance and resource allocation
Because you control the environment, you can fine-tune performance settings to match your workload. Unlike shared hosting, a VPS gives you:
- Allocated CPU, RAM, and storage, meaning no resource-sharing bottlenecks.
- The ability to optimize software (e.g., caching, database tuning) for better speed.
- A more predictable and scalable hosting solution.
4. Greater security control
Self-managed VPS hosting allows you to implement custom security measures, rather than relying on a hosting provider’s pre-configured settings. You can:
Challenges of a self-managed VPS
Some of the same benefits of a self-managed VPS become challenges if you don’t have server management experience or expertise.
- Server management responsibility: You often handle OS installation, software setup, and troubleshooting.
- Security and updates: You must configure firewalls, apply security patches, and monitor for threats.
- Little technical support: You might get general customer support, but your hosting provider will not perform server maintenance tasks for you.
- Steep learning curve: Requires knowledge of your OS of choice, control panel, CLI, networking, and server administration.
A self-managed VPS is powerful, but it requires technical expertise and proactive maintenance.
Use cases for a self-managed VPS
Even if you have the server maintenance skills, a self-managed VPS might not be the best solution. Here are a few use cases where self-managed VPS shine:
- Hosting websites and web applications: Ideal for developers who need full control over server configurations, custom software stacks, or specific performance optimizations.
- Game servers: Popular for hosting private Minecraft, Rust, ARK, or CS:GO servers that don’t need a complete dedicated server.
- Development and testing environments: Great for software developers who need isolated environments to test applications, frameworks, or new technologies.
- Self-hosted applications: Useful for running tools like Nextcloud (file storage), GitLab (version control), or Jitsi (video conferencing) without third-party restrictions.
- VPN or proxy server: Allows users to set up a private VPN for secure browsing and privacy.
- Custom email servers: Enables businesses or individuals to host their own email solutions instead of relying on third-party providers.
- Data analytics and automation: Ideal for processing large datasets, running cron jobs, or setting up web scraping and automation scripts.
How a self-managed VPS works (simplified)
Whether you’re setting up a new VPS or migrating to a new hosting provider, here’s the big picture view of how it works:
- You rent a virtual server: The VPS hosting provider gives you a portion of a physical server with dedicated resources (CPU, RAM, storage).
- You get full control: You have root (Linux) or admin (Windows) access, allowing you to configure settings and manage security.
- You install and set up everything: Unlike shared hosting, you usually have to install a web server, database, and applications yourself. Some hosting providers will let you select an OS and control panel, and set them up for you.
- You handle security and updates: You may have to set up firewalls, apply security patches, and monitor for threats. Some hosting providers include basic security in their VPS packages.
- You manage performance and troubleshooting: The provider ensures hardware and network uptime, but you are responsible for keeping your server running smoothly.
- You can scale as needed: Upgrade CPU, RAM, or storage based on your project’s demands.
Getting started with a self-managed VPS
A self-managed VPS is exactly what it sounds like: a virtual private server that you manage yourself. It’s a great option if you can handle the server management—lower cost, greater security, and more. But it’s risky if you’re not ready to maintain the virtual server.
When you’re ready to get started, you’ll want to find an experienced VPS hosting provider that offers the hardware and customer service you need.
That’s where Liquid Web comes in. We’ve been leading the industry in premium VPS server hosting for decades. Our virtual private servers come configured with Linux or Windows, and you can choose from self-managed or fully-managed.
Click below to learn more or start a chat with one of our VPS experts right now to learn more.
Additional resources
VPS: A Beginner’s Guide →
A complete beginner’s guide to virtual private servers
Managed VPS vs self-managed VPS hosting →
What’s the difference and which is right for you?
Expert tips for managing your own VPS →
Tools, tips, tutorials, courses, and more
David Richards has been an educator, a Technology Director, and now a Technical Writer for 20+ years. He’s an English major with a love for technology and helping others find ways to use technology more effectively. In his free time, Dave loves to read, play games, and spend time with his family.