VPS for forums?

Lazlo90 · #1 (**permalink**) 02-21-09, 11:04

I have several forums, and am thinking of getting another VPS dedicated just for one of those forums. Right now I'm using shared hosting for all of them, one of them in specific is doing fairly well but has not caused any problems with the current host I'm using. Therefore I haven't been forced to switch over yet, but when should I start preparing for a VPS? I'm aware that it's not really based on member count so much but more on how many users are on at the same time. However I've heard stories about large databases becoming a problem, can a large DB cause a problem on a shared host? If so, how large does it have to be for it to become a problem. I'd say a ~25,000 post forum probably has a DB sized of around 15-20MB when compressed with GZ. That size varies though as you also have to consider PM messages, as well as the software you're using but generally speaking I'd say that's a fair figure.

Hopefully a large forum owner can answer this..

BodShane · #2 (**permalink**) 02-21-09, 14:19

Let's put it this way, the database might cause issues in the near future. However, now is the time to opt for a VPS Hosting package. I suppose once you have a VPS, you can easily run multiple forums without having any issues and if the forum grow, you can always upgrade to a higher configuration VPS and then a dedicated server.

Regards,

Shane Phillips

johnny · #3 (**permalink**) 02-21-09, 15:30

Yes, I would say the same, if you have something that is growing rapidly, you need to put yourself in a position where it is easy for your to upgrade your account when needed, without downtime.

Lazlo90 · #4 (**permalink**) 02-21-09, 16:51

That is a good point.

I will think about it and since I haven't had any problems at the moment I should have enough time to think it through well. My main concern right now is the cost of the switch however the optimistic way I see it is that if it gets enough traffic so that I have to switch, it should also be getting more revenue therefore the cost might not be a problem after all.

carl owen · #5 (**permalink**) 02-21-09, 18:09

VPS will be surely be the best package for you at this point of time. Also, I would suggest you to move all our forums on the same VPS as this will make it easier for you to manage all your forums easily. If you need more resources in future you can always upgrade to a higher package or a Dedicated server.