Many dedicated web hosting customers start out on shared web hosting plans. It’s just easier to start small and grow into the kind of server that suits your needs. If you start out as a nonprofit organization, you are likely not going to pay $100/month for a Dedicated Server. However, if that organization grows into one that accepts paying customers as well or which has boomed into a large readership or advertising opportunity, you are going to be moving from shared to dedicated hosting.

So what costs are involved in upgrading to a dedicated server?

That question depends on you!

1) Which dedicated server hosting provider are you choosing? If you choose our recommended dedicated host, Lunarpages Dedicated Server Hosting, there is really no worry. They will upgrade your existing Lunarpages Hosting account at no charge, and if you have a Basic or Business Hosting Plan and add cPanel to your Dedicated Server purchase, they will move your website content for free! So there is no extra cost to you to move up.

2) Do you require additional features, such as extra RAM, a second Hard Drive, or additional monthly bandwidth? These features incur separate charges, so be prepared and ask your host for a quote upfront.

3) Are you working with the same control panel? If you are with Lunarpages and are moving from cPanel to cPanel, there’s no issue! If you need to install a control panel that is not automatically offered by your dedicated web host, however, you may end up paying someone to help you figure it out and train to understand the new control panel.

4) Do you need help Managing your Dedicated Server? If so, Managed Hosting costs extra, but is well worth the pricetag. We always recommend Managed Hosting to customers who inquire if it’s worth it. Especially if you’re moving from Shared to Dedicated Hosting, you’ll likely need it.