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What is a cloud server?

Learn how virtual cloud servers work, why they matter, and how to choose the right one for your needs. Explore different types, key features, and real-world benefits.
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Overview of cloud servers

Cloud servers deliver computing power on demand, offering flexibility, scalability, and security. Whether you're running applications, managing data, or supporting remote teams, cloud servers adapt to your needs—without the limits of traditional hardware.

Key takeaways

  • Cloud servers are virtual servers that provide on-demand computing power over a network.
  • They offer scalability, flexibility, and cost efficiency compared to traditional servers.
  • Public, private, and hybrid cloud server options suit different needs.
  • Choosing the right server depends on workload, budget, and security needs.

Discover cloud servers

A cloud server is a virtual server that runs in a cloud computing environment, providing on-demand access to computing resources over the internet. Like physical servers, cloud servers store data and run applications, but they are hosted by third-party providers and can scale to support multiple users.

Cloud servers are created using virtualization software, known as a hypervisor, which divides a physical server into multiple virtual servers. This process pools computing power, allowing for flexible and efficient resource allocation.

How do cloud servers work?

Virtual cloud servers work like regular servers, but they have one big difference—they can be accessed from almost anywhere. In contrast, traditional servers are typically hosted on site and only accessible from that location.

Cloud servers also allow for the sharing of memory and processing power across multiple virtual servers. This flexibility supports a variety of cloud computing models, including Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Software as a Service (SaaS). Additionally, cloud servers come with all necessary software pre-installed, so you don’t have to worry about upgrades.

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Cloud vs. traditional servers

Cloud servers function similarly to traditional servers since they both deliver processing power, applications, and storage. However, because they rely on cloud-based hosting and are accessed remotely, they tend to be more stable and secure than traditional servers.

The primary difference between a virtual cloud server and a traditional server is that a cloud server can be shared among many users over an accessible platform, often through a network such as the internet. A traditional server is only accessed by a given company or entity. While cloud servers perform the same functions as physical servers, cloud servers are hosted and delivered over a cloud server network rather than set up and managed on site. 

Additionally, cloud servers offer virtually unlimited compute capacity, while physical servers are limited by their existing infrastructure. Physical servers are typically more customizable than cloud servers, offering greater processing power, additional random access memory, and access to backup power.
 Benefits

Benefits of cloud servers

Scalability

Cloud servers offer unlimited computing power, making it easy to scale memory or storage to support more users. This flexibility makes them an ideal choice for companies experiencing growth.

Security

Virtual cloud servers aren't susceptible to overloads from high user traffic. Additionally, any software issues, such as outdated programs or incorrect data edits, are isolated from your local environment.

Processing power

Cloud computing servers are linked to share computing power across varying workloads, making them essential for building applications, tools, or environments.

Reliability

Cloud servers provide a reliable, uninterrupted connection and fast access to authorized users.

Flexibility

Cloud servers allow remote access from anywhere, supporting a flexible workforce. They also adapt to varying workloads by quickly scaling to meet different computing demands.

Affordability

Cloud servers reduce hardware and energy costs for businesses. With pay-as-you-go pricing, compute power and resources scale automatically based on demand.

Types of cloud servers

Public server

In the public cloud, third-party cloud service providers deliver computing resources, like servers, over the internet. This cloud-based hosting model allows businesses to scale resources easily without managing physical infrastructure. The cloud provider owns and manages all hardware, software, and supporting infrastructure.  

Private server

A provider can host a private cloud server, accessible through a secure private network. This setup offers enhanced control and security, making it ideal for businesses with specific data protection or compliance needs.  

Hybrid server
 

Hybrid cloud servers combine public and private clouds, allowing data and applications to move between them. This setup provides businesses with greater flexibility, more deployment options, and the ability to optimize infrastructure, security, and compliance.

Choosing your cloud server

Choosing the right cloud server comes down to what your business needs. Budget, technology setup, and provider reputation all play a role in the decision.

Public cloud servers are the most common, with third-party providers managing the infrastructure while customers access computing power as needed. Private cloud servers are dedicated to a single organization, offering more security and control.

Before selecting a provider, take time to assess your priorities—whether it’s cost, security, or flexibility—so you can choose the best cloud solution for your needs.
   

Steps to choosing the right cloud server

  1. Determine if you have variable workloads or data-sensitive workloads. Cloud servers are best for variable workloads while physical servers are better for data-sensitive workloads.
  2. Categorize your needs based on budget, provider, and technology requirements.
  3. Assess your security needs and decide whether you can sustain outages or other performance issues that might arise from public cloud usage.
  4. Consider a hybrid deployment, combining cloud and on-site infrastructure, to access the benefits of both. 
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Frequently asked questions

  • A cloud server is a type of cloud computing service typically delivered by third-party providers over a cloud server network. It’s accessible anytime by multiple users, making it ideal for scalable, remote computing needs. Unlike physical servers, cloud servers are virtualized, allowing for greater flexibility and efficiency in resource management.
  • Cloud servers operate similarly to traditional servers but are accessed remotely from virtually anywhere. They are often virtualized using software called a hypervisor, which divides physical servers into multiple virtual machines that share computing resources. This allows for flexible, scalable computing without the need for on-site infrastructure.
  • Cloud servers are shared among many users over an accessible platform, often through a network, which allows for remote access from anywhere. In contrast, traditional servers are typically confined to one physical location and can only be accessed by users within that location. Cloud servers offer greater flexibility and scalability, while traditional servers are often more customizable for specific, on-site needs.
  • Cloud servers offer several benefits, including flexibility, scalability, and cost-efficiency. They provide on-demand access to computing resources, meaning businesses only pay for what they use. Cloud servers are secure, reliable, and easily scalable to meet growing demands, with the ability to quickly adjust resources as needed. They can also make remote work and collaboration easier by providing on-demand access from anywhere.
  • There are three main types of cloud servers:
    • Public cloud servers are hosted by third-party providers and shared among multiple users.
    • Private cloud servers are dedicated to a single user or organization, offering greater control and security.
    • Hybrid cloud servers combine both public and private clouds, providing a mix of flexibility, security, and control.
  • When choosing a cloud server, start by evaluating your needs based on budget, technology requirements, and provider capabilities. Consider whether your workloads are variable or data-sensitive, and whether a public, private, or hybrid cloud setup would best support your goals. Don’t forget to assess security and compliance needs, as well as potential growth, to ensure you select a solution that can scale with your business.
  • Cloud servers power a wide range of applications, from hosting websites and running business software to supporting big data analytics and AI workloads. They’re also used for cloud-based hosting, data storage, remote collaboration, and scaling enterprise applications. Businesses rely on cloud servers for their flexibility, scalability, and cost efficiency.