What's the difference between Self-Managed / Unmanaged VPS and Managed VPS Hosting?
While Self-Managed and Managed VPS servers are built on the same high performance platform and reliable infrastructure, Managed VPS Hosting includes extra support and optimizations to make managing your server easier. Self-Managed VPS does not include server management, which means you will have to update your server via the command line. Self-Managed VPS does not include cPanel or WHM either, meaning you will have to manage any services you require or choose to use (like email and DNS management).
Who is Self-Managed VPS for?
Self-Managed VPS is perfect for system administrators running remote services and scripts, and developers who need a fast and flexible development environment. If you're comfortable with the command line, need to customize and configure your own VPS to exactly what you want, need a streamlined and efficient workflow to stay productive, or want maximum resources without unnecessary software getting in your way, then a Self-Managed VPS server is perfect for you!
What is pre-installed on the server when it's provisioned?
That's the beauty of this product - almost nothing. We only install the operating system you choose (CentOS or Ubuntu) as your base OS and a firewall for security. Everything else is up to you. Whether that's programming languages, email services, remote cron jobs, or a command line based web server, you are free to install and configure your Self-Managed VPS server to exactly what you need.
What kind of support is available with a Self-Managed VPS?
Because you know exactly what you're looking for, and you're comfortable managing your own server via the command line, we just want to give you access to your VPS and let you be on your way. A Self-Managed VPS doesn't come with all the bells and whistles of a Managed VPS - and in your case, that's good. No more sluggish servers or software bloat! We've included tools, described below, to help you resolve possible problems that you may encounter. Outside of that, we do have an A La Carte service available called Managed Hosting, available in blocks of 1-3 hours, in which we can provide our best effort to help you resolve your issue.
How do I get access to my Self-Managed VPS?
Whether you're accessing your VPS for the first time, or locked yourself out accidently, we can help you get back in. We offer a public-private key management system, available in AMP, to control your key access. If you've accidently locked yourself out due to changing your firewall rules, we also have a Flush Firewall tool to reset your firewall and get you back in - so you can continue your work.
What happens if I misconfigured my VPS and it becomes unusable?
If for some reason you've misconfigured your system files, or it otherwise becomes unusable, we've also provided a Re-OS tool, available in AMP. This tool will reset your VPS back to a new, fresh state - as if has just been provisioned for the first time. This tool should only be used as a last resort as it will erase the data currently stored on your VPS, but it will get you back to a usable state.
What other kind of management and account tools are available for my VPS?
When you purchase a Self-Managed VPS from InMotion Hosting, you also get a number of other invaluable tools to help you manage your account and server. Within AMP (your account management panel), you'll have a Resource Monitoring Dashboard which displays your server usage over time including bandwidth, storage, RAM, and load, helping you stay on top of resource demands. You also get snapshot management. With Live-State Snapshots, you can capture an image of your VPS in that instant, including live processes, in which you can roll back to. You also have the ability to purchase additional hosting, dedicated IP addresses, and manage your account and billing details in an easy-to-use interface.