VPS vs VDS: what is the difference?
Providers often use VPS and VDS as marketing synonyms. The virtualization technology and resource policy tell you more than the label.
Compare the underlying platform
| Platform | Typical properties |
|---|---|
| KVM / full virtualization | Own kernel, broad OS choice, stronger isolation |
| Containers | Shared host kernel, lower overhead, more restrictions |
Questions worth asking
- Is CPU time guaranteed, burstable or subject to fair use?
- Is the advertised RAM dedicated?
- Can you mount a custom ISO and use snapshots?
- What happens when a neighbouring customer is busy?
Choose full virtualization when you need Windows, a custom kernel, predictable isolation or unusual networking. A container can be economical for a simple Linux service if its limitations are documented.
Compare what is actually includedUse virtualization and resource filters, not the product name.
Compare virtual servers