With the ever-growing demand for visual content, organizations like yours will create more and more videos in the months and years ahead. So, where should you host all that video content?
You have two main options:
- Keep your videos on a dedicated server.
- Store your videos on a cloud server.
The debate between cloud vs. server hosting continues, with many organizations preferring one method over the other. But what are the differences, and which one provides more value, especially when it comes to hosting videos? Learn more about cloud vs. server hosting below and make more informed technology decisions for your organization.
Cloud vs. Server Hosting: What Is a Dedicated Server?
A dedicated server is a server that belongs entirely to an organization. No other company or individual can use the server. It is physical machinery located in a data center that's managed by a third-party service provider. Users connect with the dedicated server via the Internet and use it to host, store, and deliver content to customers, clients, and colleagues.
Related Reading: The Benefits of Video Hosting for Business
What Is a Cloud Server?
Unlike a dedicated server, a cloud server exists in a virtualized environment. More than one organization uses the server, so you rent the "space" you need to host your videos. Third-party cloud hosting providers manage cloud servers, so you don't have to worry about updating security patches or clearing and archiving logs. Like a physical dedicated server, users can host, store, and share video content with various audiences.
Viostream provides a unique approach to cloud video hosting. You control access to your videos at all times and ensure only approved audiences watch content. Other security features include domain whitelisting, data sovereignty, and video restrictions for specific IP addresses and locations. Learn more about Viostream's video security features when it comes to cloud vs server hosting.
Related Reading: Best Secure Video Host for Your Company
Pros and Cons of Dedicated Servers
Dedicated servers can be more expensive to use than cloud servers. That's because an organization has to pay to use the entire server. If you use a dedicated server, you pay the same amount every month for the platform, regardless of whether you use its resources or not. On the flip side, dedicated servers can provide more server space than some cloud-based ones, which suits organizations that require lots of server capacity.
Weighing up the pros and cons of cloud vs. server hosting? Viostream offers up to 3,000 GB of video storage, allowing you to keep all your content in a safe space and share it with viewers. That's enough storage to host video tutorials, sales presentations, how-to guides, health and safety videos, explainer videos, and more. Start your 14-day trial and try Viostream for yourself.
Pros and Cons of Cloud Servers
Several customers use a cloud server simultaneously, which brings down costs for your organization. You only pay for the amount of server space needed, and you can scale hosting resources up or down when required. That means you won't pay for server space that you don't need.
One of the scariest things about using a cloud server for the first time is realizing that you are sharing hosting resources with organizations other than yours. Cloud servers can increase the risk of a data breach or other similar violations. That's why, when considering cloud vs. server hosting, it is critical to choose a platform that offers enhanced security and access controls.
Viostream is more than just a cloud video hosting tool. It lets you manage, share, and track your videos on one platform, helping you transform your content management strategy. You can view and manage all your videos from one easy-to-use dashboard, organize your content into video galleries and portals, and add accessibility features like closed captions to your content. Discover Viostream's video management features when deciding between cloud vs. server hosting.
Related Reading: How Do Private Video Hosting Platforms Work?
Cloud vs. Server Hosting: How to Choose
There are various factors to consider when deciding between cloud vs. server hosting. While dedicated servers are exclusive to an organization, they can cost more money than cloud servers and might require users to pay for resources they don't need. Cloud servers are a more cost-effective and scalable solution for most organizations. However, you should choose a platform that offers enhanced security features, such as domain whitelists, IP restrictions, geo-based restrictions, and access controls.
Viostream lets you host video content in the cloud without sacrificing security. Start your free trial now and test drive this top-level cloud-based video host for 14 days.