Why Cpanel makes a Difference
If you are looking for hosting or if you are interested in renting a dedicated server then you have probably come across the term Cpanel. Especially if you are new to hosting then you have to make a decision between Cpanel hosting and a virtual server abbreviated VPS, which may or may not include Cpanel.

Cpanel is a graphical interface for managing your server or hosting. Today’s web server operating systems such as, for instance, CentOS, do not have a built-in graphical interface That is, they have to be managed from the command line by default. Thus, even for simple administrative tasks you such as adding a new web site you have to type in the correct Linux commands or fill-in a config file unless you have a GUI.

Cpanel not only is an easy-to-use GUI for managing your web hosting, but it also has numerous functionalities to set up and manage a server. Unless you are Linux expert this will be almost impossible in command mode.

Even, if you are good a Linux Cpanel will save you much time for administrative tasks. A Cpanel may cost a few bucks a month, but it will probably save you time worth the multiples of it.

Hosting including CPanel

Cpanel web hosting really is the way to go. You will have less a need for support from your hosting provider, many of which will only help out for free if there is an issue with your hosting, and charge you for administrative tasks.

Some, but not all, hosting providers include Cpanel if you buy hosting with them. Other may charge you a small fee. The bottom line is that you shouldn’t have hosting without, particularly if you are a new webmaster.

Before I have changed to a dedicated server – with Cpanel of course – , I had a hosting account with Hostgator. Their web hosting plans start for less than four dollars a month and include Cpanel! If you want to check out other providers google them for the term Cpanel web hosting.

Cpanel Advantages for a VPS or Dedicated Server

If you are renting a server or have a virtual private server then you usually have to manage and run the server software on your own. Many providers give little if any support unless you have hardware issue, as I can tell from experience. Hostgator might be better in this aspect, but as opposed to web hosting their pricing for servers and VPS is not the best offer in the market.

So when you find a better deal you are somewhat prone to have little support, and this is where Cpanel kicks in. Make sure to opt in for a Cpanel license when you make the server contract because you will get support from Cpanel directly if you encounter an issue, and from my experience they also help out if you don’t know what to do. What’s more is that you can Google many Cpanel related questions, and find help in the Cpanel forum.

The Cpanel license cost for a server should be around 15$ a month, less for a VPS. This money is spent wisely given the ease of use for server administration and setup. Compare this to the rates for hiring a Linux/CENTOS specialist, or the lost revenue should your websites experience a down time.

Now that you understand what is Cpanel do yourself a favour and make sure you it have along your hosting, VPS or dedicated server hardware.

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