There are several different types of web hosting accounts that you can get for your website based upon your needs, preferences and budget. A dedicated server account allows you more freedom over other hosting types, giving you the option of having a managed server or doing it all by yourself with an unmanaged solution.
Dedicated Server
Like other types of hosting, most dedicated server racks are housed within a data center just like a co-location facility, giving each customer the benefit of redundant power sources and powerful cooling systems. However, unlike a co-location hosting account, the server hardware in a dedicated server account is owned by the hosting provider with operating systems, programs and applications being provided to the customer within the hosting package or added on as extras.
Most hosting companies provide an open source operating system such as Linux or Unix at no charge. Other free open source operating systems include the BSD systems series: OpenBSD, FreeBSD and NetBSD. However, in most cases, a commercial operating system such as Microsoft Windows Server, is often made available to customers by default. Additional operating systems, such as Red Hat Enterprise, are usually available for an extra monthly fee.
Additional services, such as domain registration for domain names, domain lookup and other essential services are often provided directly through the host, giving account holders the ability to expand and grow their online businesses and networks in an easy-to-use streamlined process. Be sure to ask the web host questions in advance about what services, add-on programs and other extras are available to dedicated server account holders.
Choosing a dedicated server account over a virtual or shared hosting account is usually dependent upon your hosting needs and of course your budget. There is a significant price jump between dedicated and shared hosting accounts, however the services and freedoms that you will receive as a benefit of dedicated hosting will more than make up for the cost.