Hello there, Basically I've been developing a website for around two months now and shortly it will be ready to go live to the public. One of it's features is a video upload service, now I've never hosted this type of website before in my life so I'm learning as I progress. My main concern is the server hosting. Do I opt for a dedicated server straight away, or start on shared hosting then move to a dedicated server once required? All advice is greatly appreciated.
Depending on your hosts TOS/bandwidth limits, shared hosting may not be the best way to go. I would personally opt for a VPS to begin with, or just go straight for a Dedicated Server if you feel you will have the need for it.
As a video veteran I can say that you will run into a TON of issues with shared hosting for video. I would highly suggest a VPS to start out with.
I agree with previous replys. I suggest going with a VPS as shared hosting will bring a great deal of issues for you.
don't think "ill start with VPS and move up to dedicated as I make more $$$" the problem with video is no one makes money in just video hosting, if you're just a video host expect high upfront cost with minimal returns.
You should start small and not invest up front big $. Shared hosting is fine..just make sure to familiarize yourself with TOS.
Agreed. Even if you have a dedicated box, some web hosting companies have other stumbling blocks that come into play for high bandwidth or traffic sites. I would say this to you, make sure you get a good host and read over their T.O.S.. A lot of web hosts will not allow a big video/tube type of site. They do not come out and specifically 'say' that. But when you get into the limits on resources, or how you use them, then you will start to see how they get you. That said, I would start with semi-dedicated, and then move to dedicated when you need it. Most people pay for way more bandwith, and hosting costs, then they truly need. Whether it is just because of some 'special' or an upsell 'sweet deal'. Finding the right hosting and right price is a science.
I'm pretty sure I read an article a while ago about hosting such sites. You will want a dedicated server(s) for sure. Hosting videos takes a lot of space and bandwidth.
do not go for share hosting !!!! as soon your site hit the limits (which are pretty low) - it will be suspended !! - they do not care if your site is offline or not - they just shut it and that is that !!!