What is the difference between shared and dedicated hosting?

Shared hosting and dedicated hosting are two popular hosting options that cater to different needs and budgets. Shared hosting means that multiple websites share a single server and its resources, such as CPU, RAM, and disk space. This makes it a cost-effective solution, as users can take advantage of lower prices by pooling resources. However, this also means that performance may be affected by the activities of other websites on the same server. It is often suitable for smaller websites or those with lower traffic volumes. In contrast, dedicated hosting provides an entire server exclusively for one user or one website. This arrangement allows for greater control over the server's configuration, resources, and performance. Users benefit from higher reliability, improved site speed, and enhanced security since they are not sharing resources with others. Dedicated hosting is generally more expensive and is ideal for larger websites or those that experience higher traffic, as well as for businesses requiring additional customization and performance. Ultimately, the choice between shared and dedicated hosting will depend on the specific needs of the website, including budget, traffic levels, and technical requirements. For more information about hosting options, users may refer to the relevant pages on the NameCheap website.