Developed in the early 1970s by a group of AT&T employees, Unix dedicated hosting is currently the most widely used web hosting platform. Originally spelled Unics -- UNiplexed Information and Computing System -- Unix dedicated hosting is an open system which allows anyone to access its source code for free via various websites. Because of this open system and years of quality assurance testing, customers who use Unix dedicated servers expect more and have the option of moving to one of thousands of other Unix system implementations should they become dissatisfied.

Whether you choose to manage your own Unix server or pay an inexpensive monthly fee to manage it for you, consider the following:

1. Save time and space with web hosting companies.

2. Hire professional Unix hosting servers to manage your hardware and software.

3. Control it all with your own IT team and the right products.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Host cheaply with a Unix web hosting company

There are thousands of Unix web hosting companies and the services they provide typically depend on what you have to spend each month. By using a hosting service, you'll have to share a server. But, if you don't have money to purchase your own server, you can find Unix web hosting companies that offer packages with ridiculously low monthly fees with the ability to set up multiple Web domains in one account. Nearly all come with 24/7 phone support, but you may be able to find one with live chat support which cuts your wait time.

I recommend: Cheap Hosting Directory lists unix web hosting companies with bottom-line pricing. Visionwebhosting.net offers 4 different plans, complete with templates for building websites.

Forget about sharing server space and let the professionals handle all of your Unix hosting needs

If you're looking to install Unix web hosting servers, you can lease one, complete with monthly bandwith. This means you get to keep your own websites on your own server and you won't have to worry about traffic on your site slowing to a crawl because you're sharing a server with hundreds of other sites. Choose from companies that can not only install a server but can also maintain and update your server from anywhere in the world.

I recommend: Check out LOD.com for their Unix server leasing packages. Rackspace Hosting also offers several server packages, as well as "green" options.

Find the right products and your IT department can manage your Unix web hosting servers

If you've purchased Unix servers and are planning to have your own IT department maintain them, you can find small servers for small to medium sized businesses from leaders in the industry. You'll also need accessories such as cables and switch boxes to maintain solid connections.

I recommend: IBM offers several Unix and Linux web servers that serve a multitude of workloads. Check out SunHelp for news, reviews and multiple listings of sites dedicated to server accessories.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Any Unix hosting information provided by potential server providers should contain security information. To protect your business, you'll want to select a provider that is familiar with firewall configuration as well as incident response and data recovery.