Control Panel

Cost: Free for Linux Servers running Webmin and Virtualmin

Cost: not applicable for servers running Microsoft Windows in most cases

The control panel is the steering wheel for your server. It is a web-based program used to administer the various applications and users of the system. For Linux, the free Webmin package is recommended, even for advanced system administrators. For servers with Microsoft Windows,  a control panel may not be necessary since Windows 2003 and 2008 provide administrative functionality.

Infrastructure & Backups

Cost: Free (unless purchasing extra resources)

The infrastructure that supports the server is important to ensure maximum availability. We go to extra lengths to make sure that all systems are redundant including power, cooling and bandwidth. If your server requires additional resources, take note of the costs in the table below:

Server Monitoring

Cost: Free for standard monitoring

Monitoring the server and it's various systems is important to catch problems before they become serious. In many cases, it is possible to avert a serious problem by being alerted to a failing condition and taking action right away. For example, if the disk drives fills up, the system will begin to fail or if CPU and RAM reach a high level, the system may begin to act sluggish. These conditions and others should be monitored closely. The monitoring system can send out email alerts to smartphones so the right people are notified of an event.

Cost: $20 setup fee per advanced monitoring service

Security Bundle

Cost: $120 per month

The security bundle is less expensive than buying the same services unbundled. Security is crucial in light of the fact that malware attacks are on the rise. A simple firewall isn't enough for a public facing server.

Other measures are strongly recommended, including a web application firewall, which filters the traffic that the standard firewall let's through. Keeping the system updated by applying patches and updates to the operating system is also considered best practices to ensure that known vulnerabilities in the operating system are patched and repaired.

The following table describes the optional security bundle for a cost of $120 per month. If you decline the security bundle, then you should still pick some level of security from the "Managed Services" tab. Alternatively, you can provide your own security if you are knowledgeable in this area.

Managed Services

Cost: See chart below for costs

Managed services provide additional benefits that you may not have the time or inclination to do yourself. These services include backups and security related services. All services are charged monthly with the exception of server hardening, which is a one-time fee (each time a server is built or re-built).

Security Management is the reaction to a security breach. Certain steps need to be taken in the event that security is compromised and a vulnerability was exploited. If you don't have the know-how on how to alleviate a security breach, then consider adding this managed service.