Published: 25.07.2026
Two servers with the same hardware can offer very different experiences, depending on who takes care of them. Understand the difference before you order.
Unmanaged VPS
The provider delivers a working virtual machine and keeps the hardware and the network running. Everything inside the system is your responsibility: installation, configuration, security updates, monitoring and backups.
- Lower price.
- Maximum freedom.
- Requires Linux or Windows server skills.
Managed VPS
The provider or an administrator also takes care of the system and the main services: updates, security, monitoring, control panel installation and help with problems.
- Higher price, but time is saved.
- Faster solution of problems.
- Good for businesses without a system administrator.
What is usually included in management
- Installation and configuration of the web server, the database and the mail service.
- Regular updates and security patches.
- Monitoring with alerts and reaction to incidents.
- Backup setup and restore.
- Help with migration and performance problems.
How to decide
- Do you have a person who can administer a Linux server? If not, choose managed.
- How expensive is an hour of downtime for you?
- Do you need custom software? Check that the managed plan allows it.
Middle way
Start with an unmanaged server and buy one-time services, such as setup or a security audit. You can also move to a managed plan later.
Frequently asked questions
Do I still get root access on a managed server? Often yes, but changes by the customer can limit the scope of support.
Is management the same as a control panel? No. A panel is software; management is a service performed by people.
