What does unmanaged mean?
With an unmanaged server the provider supplies the hardware or virtual server, power and internet connectivity. Everything that happens on the server is your responsibility: operating system updates, firewall, hardening, backups, monitoring and troubleshooting. In return you have full control and only pay for the infrastructure.
What does managed mean?
With a managed server the provider also takes over administration. This typically includes:
- Setting up the operating system, web server and database
- Regular security updates
- Round-the-clock monitoring with alerts
- Backups and restoration in an emergency
- Help with errors, performance problems and attacks
You focus on your website or application – professionals look after the server.
The differences at a glance
| Unmanaged | Managed | |
|---|---|---|
| Updates & security | Your job | Handled by the provider |
| Backups | Set up yourself | Included or set up |
| Monitoring | Set up yourself | Included |
| Control | Complete | High, by agreement |
| Cost | Cheaper | Surcharge for the service |
| Know-how needed | Linux or Windows administration | None |
Who is unmanaged for?
Unmanaged is the right choice for developers, system administrators and companies with their own IT department. If you know how to secure a server, apply updates and verify backups, you save the surcharge and keep every detail in your own hands.
Who is managed for?
Managed pays off for everyone without their own IT, or whose IT should focus on other things – such as small and medium-sized businesses, agencies, online retailers and medical practices. A neglected server is a real security risk: outdated software is one of the most common entry points for attacks. The cost of a managed server is almost always lower than the damage caused by a hacked server or lost data.
Checklist: do I need managed?
If you answer “no” to any of the following questions, we recommend managed:
- Does someone in your team regularly apply security updates?
- Are there backups whose restoration has actually been tested?
- Would you notice if your server went down at night?
- Would you know what to do in the event of a hacker attack?
The middle ground at Evolus
With us you don't have to choose a rigid package. You can start with an unmanaged server and hand over individual tasks – such as just backups and monitoring – or outsource operations completely. As an IT service provider we can also look after the software running on your server.
FAQ
Do I still have root access with a managed server?
That is a matter of agreement. With us, root access is possible even with a managed server – we agree who makes which changes so nothing conflicts.
Can I switch from unmanaged to managed later?
Yes, at any time. We review your server, bring it up to date and then take over its management.