# VPS vs dedicated server vs shared hosting: which do you need?

Pick **shared hosting** for one simple website that needs no special software. Pick a **VPS** when you want to control the
server or run your own apps. Pick a **dedicated server** when your work needs a whole machine.

## The difference at a glance

| | Shared hosting | VPS | Dedicated server |
|---|---|---|---|
| What you get | A space on a server, shared with other customers | A private server inside a bigger machine | A whole machine |
| Who shares the hardware | Many customers, on the same system | Other VPSs, each with its own system | Nobody |
| Can you install any software? | Usually only what the host allows | Yes | Yes |
| Do you get root access? | Usually not | Yes, unless someone runs it for you | Yes, unless someone runs it for you |
| How much you have to know | Very little | Some, unless someone runs it for you | The most |
| Best for | A small website or blog | Apps, shops, several sites, Docker | Very heavy, steady work |

## Pick shared hosting if

- You have one small website, such as a blog.
- You never want to use a terminal.
- The software you need is on the host's list.

## Pick a VPS if

- You want to run an app, Docker or a database of your own choice.
- Your site has outgrown shared hosting.
- You want to host several sites in one place.
- You want your own firewall and your own software versions.

Most people who ask this question need a VPS. You can usually move it to a bigger plan later, so you don't have to guess
your size perfectly on day one.

## Pick a dedicated server if

- Your server stays busy all day, and a big VPS is not enough.
- Your work needs special hardware.
- A rule you must follow says you can't share hardware with anyone.

## What about a "cloud server"?

"Cloud server" often means a VPS that you can make, resize or delete in minutes. Companies use the word in different ways,
so read what the plan really gives you.

## Who looks after the server?

This question matters as much as the size. On an **unmanaged** server, you do the updates and fix what breaks. On a
**managed** server, someone does part of that for you. Ask exactly what that covers, because it differs from one company to
the next.

## Doing this on CortexHosting

We offer two kinds of server:

- **VPS** (also called Unmanaged): you run it, and you can use root through `sudo`.
- **Managed**: we help run it. Safety updates install by themselves, and you do your work through the dashboard. No account
  on the server has `sudo`.

You can pick Ubuntu, Debian or Rocky Linux when you make either one. Read more in [What is CortexHosting?](/docs/what-is-cortexhosting/)

CortexHosting is not open yet, so you can’t order a server today.
Last changed: 2026-11-01
Source: https://cortexhosting.dev/docs/vps-vs-dedicated-vs-shared-hosting/