Virtual Private Servers
Frequently Asked Questions


Q: What is a Virtual Private Server?

A: Virtual Private Server (VPS) is a form of hosting that partitions one physical server computer into multiple “virtual” servers, with each having the appearance and capabilities of running on its own dedicated machine. Each virtual server is isolated, can run its own virtual operating system, and can be independently rebooted. VPS users can have administrator access, which provides them control, flexibility, and power over their hosting solution to run and install almost any application on their server.
VPS includes larger amounts of data transfer per month (compared to shared hosting), which enables users to host and manage multiple high-traffic applications or websites on a single VPS subscription. VPS servers are particularly useful for companies and individuals that run high traffic sites that need a high level of data transfer, consistent performance, and flexibility that is typically not available on traditional shared hosting accounts.

Q: What is the difference between Shared and VPS hosting?

A: Shared hosting enables hundreds or even thousands of subscribers to share a server, resulting in lower customer costs.  Many subscribers of shared hosting prefer to focus on the online business while allowing the hosting provider to look after the technology. Virtual Private Servers provide advanced features for customers in a manner similar to a dedicated server, but at a much lower cost. VPS separates a server into several “virtual” servers, with each server capable of operating separately from the others. VPS is the choice for advanced subscribers who understand and need the advanced features of a dedicated instance of Microsoft IIS and direct operating system controls.

Q: How do I choose between Windows Shared Hosting and VPS?

A: VPS may be the right choice for you in the following circumstances:

  • Admin Server Access: If you want to fully customize your server configuration and install your own applications.
  • You need to use VPS as a file server to map remote network drives
  • You feel comfortable managing a Microsoft 2003 Server

Q: What level of customer support do you offer with VPS?

A: Our Technical Support staff is dedicated to providing you with responsive, professional assistance so you can manage your Windows-based Virtual Private Server effectively. Both online and live support resources are available.

    Support Policy

    Included at no additional cost with your VPS account is our standard support to assure server and infrastructure availability.  Optional, fee-based support services are also available.

    Standard VPS Support Definition

    Standard support covers systems and infrastructure that is exclusively managed by our support and operations staff, and is outside of customer control. In addition, we will assist you in basic connectivity questions, including navigation—to and logging into—your VPS server and the VPS section features of your MailStreet Control Panel.  

    Optional VPS Support Services Definition (fee-based)

    Optional Support services are charged per incident or per quote basis for educational or administration requests. Per-incident VPS support service incident credits may be purchased through the MailStreet Control Panel at current prices.

    Per-Incident Examples

      • Your server becomes unavailable, not due to hardware or network services exclusively under our control
      • You request assistance with a pre-installed application that you may have configured incorrectly

    Education & Administration Examples

      • You request assistance with a script
      • System administration
      • System or application instruction
      • System setup or configuration
    Please be aware that changes made by our technicians are made on an as-is, no warranty basis, and are subject to our Terms of Service. Additional changes, administration, or troubleshooting will be subject to additional support fees.
    You retain control and responsibility for the management of the VPS system, server software, and applications. Upgrades are at your option, responsibility, and control.
    A backup of your VPS should always be performed (by you) before attempting installations, updates, or modifications. In the event of a failed or aborted change that results in damage to your VPS, a restoration from your backup can be performed at your discretion without incurring fees. Restoration without your own backup of your VPS is not guaranteed or implied, and will incur fees if you request our assistance.

    Support Process

    Support requests may be submitted via telephone or email. Urgent "system down" issues should always be reported via telephone for quickest resolution. Email requests will generally be responded to in less than 24 hours. Please visit the support home page for telephone and email contact details. Support requests must always be initiated by customer personnel who have systems access and the required knowledge to administer your VPS implementation.


Q: What is Virtuozzo?

A:  Virtuozzo Power Panel helps you to more efficiently manage your VPS, and is recognized as the industry-leading solution. Using Virtuozzo, you can manage high-level elements of your VPS such as: starting, stopping, or rebooting the VPS; restoring files; and changing VPS passwords.

Q: What is the average provisioning time for a VPS server?

A: MailStreet typically provisions VPS subscriptions in approximately 30 minutes.

Q: Do I get full Admin access to my VPS?

A: MailStreet VPS subscriptions include full Administrator access.

Q: What firewall ports are open?

A: The firewall ports in the table below are open for inbound and outbound traffic for all VPS subscriptions. Additional ports will be reviewed upon request and justification from customers. All ports are open between VPS subscriptions, and are not restricted by a firewall (allowing unrestricted communication between VPS subscriptions).

TCP Traffic UDP Traffic
80
 139
25  
587  
143  
993  
443
 445
445  
1723  
3389
  
4643  
8080
  
8443  

Get Started