A virtual private server (VPS) is a powerful tool that can do much more than just host websites.
For those looking to maximize the value of their VPS, there are numerous ways it can be used to improve security, streamline processes, and provide customized services.
From setting up a private mail server to creating a VPN, the possibilities are endless. Let’s see how you can make the most of your VPS’s potential:
Offsite backup for mission-critical files
One of the most useful applications of a VPS is to set it up as an off-site backup solution. By using open source software such as Syncthing either Seafile, A VPS can handle real-time backups of important files and databases.
This offers a secure and reliable way to ensure that crucial data is always protected and accessible, even if on-site hardware fails.
The flexibility and peace of mind this provides make a VPS an excellent choice for protecting mission-critical files.
Private mail server
Hosting an email server on a VPS allows for complete control over email communications. Instead of relying on third-party services, a private mail server can be set up.
There are free and open source solutions like Roundcube to keep your emails ad-free and the sensitive content of your customers’ emails, including customer information and pricing, away from the reach of curious AIs.
Custom and Branded VPN
With the growing need for secure remote access, setting up a VPN on a VPS is another great use case.
By using open source solutions such as OpenVPN, A VPS can become a fully customized VPN server with powerful encryption protocols.
Customizing your VPN for your specific needs allows for a level of control and security that surpasses many VPN solutions available on the market, while also saving you money.
Additionally, branding your VPN adds a professional touch, making it look more personalized.
Keep ads off my assets
For anyone who creates and shares media, hosting video and audio files on a VPS can eliminate the frustration of ads that often come with using public platforms like YouTube or Vimeo.
Jellyfin is a free and open source media server that allows you to upload, organize, and stream videos. No ads play before, during, or after videos. You can embed videos on websites and link to them from marketing materials.
This setup is perfect for company training videos or proprietary media, ensuring sensitive content remains within the company and secure.
Ad and service blocking
AdGuard Home is a free and open source DNS server software that can be installed on a VPS to block ads and control access to certain services or domains.
By pointing the office router to the VPS’s DNS server, users can block unwanted traffic on all devices connected to the network.
This feature is particularly useful for managing office networks or publicly accessible guest Wi-Fi networks, as it prevents wasting bandwidth on streaming services or unauthorized downloads.
Rationalization of subscriptions to essential services
For those who want more control over their data, Nextcloud is a fantastic open source alternative to subscription-based services like Microsoft Office 365, Dropbox, and Google Drive.
Hosting Nextcloud on a VPS allows users to securely store, share and collaborate on files.
It offers a self-hosted, cost-effective solution that avoids the security risks and ongoing costs associated with cloud service providers.
Nextcloud’s flexibility makes it a valuable tool for managing everything from files and calendars to project management.
Protection of confidential information
Companies that specialize in security, like LastPass, are not immune to attacks and have a monthly cost.
Free and open source solutions can be used, such as Passbolt , to add more value to a VPS by turning it into an enterprise-grade password manager.
It is an ideal solution for managing and protecting confidential information.
Using a VPS as a reverse proxy
A VPS can act as a reverse proxy server, providing secure access to internal networks or local applications over the Internet.
By integrating VPS into an existing infrastructure, it can help balance loads, reduce server strain, and improve overall system resilience.
This configuration is perfect for businesses that need a cost-effective way to improve uptime and capacity without investing in additional hardware.
Setting up automated CI/CD pipelines
A VPS can be a valuable asset for software development teams by hosting continuous integration and continuous deployment (CI/CD) pipelines.
By using tools such as Jenkins either GitLab CI , developers can automate the creation, testing, and deployment of their code.
Not only does this improve efficiency, it also ensures that updates and new features are deployed securely and consistently, keeping development workflows smooth and optimized.
Game Server Hosting
For gaming enthusiasts, a VPS can be used to host multiplayer game servers for titles such as Minecraft , CS:GO either Terraria .
With a dedicated server, users can control game settings, install custom mods, and scale resources as needed.
It is a flexible and affordable way to manage gaming environments, offering a unique experience for players while ensuring smooth gameplay.
VoIP and video conferencing
With the rise of remote work, communication tools are more important than ever. A VPS can be used to host a VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) and video conferencing system, offering a secure and scalable communication solution.
Free and open source software can be configured as Jitsi either Asterisk on a VPS, allowing businesses to manage their own conferencing systems without relying on third-party providers.
Hosting a CRM system
Many businesses rely on customer relationship management (CRM) systems and a VPS provides an excellent platform for hosting these tools.
Open source CRMs like SuiteCRM or OroCRM can be installed on a VPS, offering a fully customizable solution for managing customer interactions, sales pipelines and marketing campaigns.
Hosting a CRM on a VPS allows for greater control over data security and system customization, making it an attractive alternative to cloud-based services.
A VPS offers much more than just blazing-fast hosting for your client’s main website or application. By familiarizing yourself with these additional uses, you’ll be able to show your clients the full potential of a VPS and put yourself in a better position. You can also increase the specifications of the VPS to take into account the requirements of these services and charge extra for setting up and maintaining the services themselves.