Virtual Private Server (VPS) overview

Overview

The DreamHost Virtual Private Server (VPS) is a premium hosting plan available as an add-on to an existing DreamHost plan or a standalone service.

New VPSs added in the panel run Ubuntu Focal and use Linux-Containers (LXC) to create a "virtual" server that protects a user's RAM resources from other users on the same physical machine. For example, on a shared server resources are shared by other users. On a VPS, these resources are more isolated which improves performance and helps to maintain stability.

This article provides details on how to add a:

  • VPS server
  • VPS User
  • other details for managing and using your VPS.

What features does a VPS include?

  • Protected RAM
  • Persistent processes are allowed (and are never killed)
  • Ability to upgrade RAM without a restart (downgrading will restart the server)
  • Ability to reboot the server from the panel
  • Historical memory and load graphs can be viewed on the panel

IP addresses

Each VPS comes with its own IP address included. You can then add a Unique IP to each domain (IPv4 or IPv6) for an additional fee. View the following article for further details:

Please note that DreamHost is unable to offer static IP addresses. This means that the IPs of your site (including Unique IPs) are subject to change.

Although this rarely occurs, DreamHost is unable to guarantee that an IP address will never change. Additionally, when an IP change does occur, you will be notified via email in a timely fashion.

Persistent processes

Unlike a regular Shared Hosting setup, VPS hosting allows persistent processes to run. Regardless of how long it takes to run these processes (web invoked, console invoked, cron, or otherwise), the processes are never killed by the server.

Wildcard DNS

Please visit the Wildcard DNS article for instructions on how to enable this service on your VPS.

How much does a VPS cost?

See the following page for more information on VPS features and pricing plans:

What is a Legacy VPS?

Legacy VPS refers to old VPS plans that DreamHost previously offered in the past. While these configurations are out-of-date and are no longer available, instances may still exist on some accounts. Please contact support if you have a Legacy VPS and would like to upgrade to one of DreamHost’s newer offerings.

How to check the operating system version

To view the operating system running, log into your server via SSH. Once logged in, run the following command:

[server]$ cat /etc/issue

Are MySQL databases on the VPS?

No. A VPS only runs website files. Any databases you add in your panel will default to a Shared MySQL server.

You can also purchase a private MySQL server, but this would be a second server in addition to your VPS. View the following article for further details:

Will I be refunded if I cancel a VPS hosting plan?

Refunds only apply to Shared Hosting accounts. View the Refunds article for further details:

See also

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Article last updated PST.

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