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VPS → Ubuntu VPS
What is an Ubuntu VPS?
If you’ve ever felt limited by shared hosting but overwhelmed by the idea of managing a server from scratch, an Ubuntu VPS might be your sweet spot. It gives you the power and flexibility of a dedicated server—without the steep cost—and runs on one of the most popular and user-friendly Linux distributions in the world.
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What is an Ubuntu VPS?
An Ubuntu VPS (virtual private server) is a virtualized server environment that runs on Ubuntu, a free and open-source Linux operating system. It’s created by partitioning a physical server into multiple virtual servers, each with its own dedicated resources and operating system instance.
With an Ubuntu VPS, you get full control over your server environment—perfect for developers, agencies, or businesses that want flexibility without managing physical hardware.
How it works
There are several key aspects of an Ubuntu VPS that make it powerful, affordable, and beginner-friendly.
Virtualization
Virtualization is what makes a VPS possible. A hypervisor—like KVM or VMware—splits a physical server into multiple isolated environments. Each of those environments behaves like its own standalone server, with dedicated CPU, RAM, and storage.
On an Ubuntu VPS, you’re running Ubuntu in one of those virtual containers, separate from others on the same machine.
Ubuntu operating system (OS)
Ubuntu is one of the most popular Linux distributions, known for its stability, security, and ease of use. It’s a top choice for server environments because it supports a wide range of software, is backed by a massive community, and offers predictable release cycles.
With an Ubuntu VPS, you’re not locked into a proprietary OS—you’re running a system designed for customization and control.
Benefits: Why choose an Ubuntu VPS?
Ubuntu VPS hosting hits a great balance between control, cost, and convenience. Key benefits include:
- Root access: Full administrative access means you can install, configure, and run whatever you want, from web servers to database stacks.
- Scalability: Easily upgrade your resources as your traffic or app demands grow, without switching platforms.
- Community support: Ubuntu has a huge user base and documentation library, so it’s easy to find tutorials, solutions, and best practices.
- Security: Ubuntu regularly releases security updates, especially for Long-Term Support (LTS) versions that are maintained for five years.
- Software repository: Ubuntu’s package manager (APT) gives you access to thousands of pre-vetted open-source applications and tools.
Popular Ubuntu VPS use cases
An Ubuntu VPS is flexible enough for a wide range of projects. Some of the most common use cases include:
- Web hosting: Run high-performance websites or client projects with a stack like LAMP, LEMP, or Node.js.
- App development and staging: Build, test, and deploy apps in a clean, isolated environment.
- Cloud storage: Set up your own private cloud using tools like Nextcloud or ownCloud.
- VPN server: Enhance your online privacy by hosting your own secure VPN service.
- Game servers: Host game servers for Minecraft, CS:GO, or other multiplayer platforms.
- Self-hosted tools: Run your own email server, analytics platform, or project management tools.
How to choose an Ubuntu VPS hosting provider
When you’re ready to spin up an Ubuntu VPS, make sure your provider checks these boxes:
- Performance: Look for SSD storage, modern CPUs, and reliable RAM allocation.
- Uptime guarantee: Aim for a provider that offers at least 99.99% uptime.
- Root access and OS options: You should be able to choose your version of Ubuntu and have full control over your environment.
- Scalability: Can you upgrade resources without migrating?
- Support: Is 24/7 support available? Does the team know Linux?
- Backups and snapshots: Look for automated backup options and on-demand snapshots.
- Data center location: Choose a region close to your audience for better performance.
Getting started with VPS hosting
An Ubuntu VPS is a great middle ground between shared hosting and a full-blown dedicated server. You get the speed, flexibility, and control to build just about anything—without the high overhead.
If you’re ready to try it out, start by choosing a VPS hosting provider that supports Ubuntu and offers scalable plans. From there, you can deploy your server, install your software stack, and start building.
When you’re ready to upgrade your hosting to a high-quality VPS, Liquid Web can help. We’ve been leading the industry for decades, because our VPS servers are fast, cloud-based for easy scalability, and unbeatably reliable. Choose your favorite OS and the management tier that works best for you.
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?
First 5 tasks a new Ubuntu server →
Secure and optimize your new Ubuntu server with these five simple steps