Should you let experts handle your server or manage it yourself? This comprehensive guide will help Nigerian website owners understand the differences and make the right choice.
We handle everything for you
You have full control
Think of it like owning a car vs using a chauffeur service
Managed hosting is like having a professional chauffeur. The hosting provider handles all the technical work - server setup, security, updates, monitoring, and optimization. You simply focus on your website content and business.
Unmanaged hosting is like driving your own car. You get the keys (server access) and basic setup, but you're responsible for everything else - maintenance, security, updates, and troubleshooting. Full control, full responsibility.
Unmanaged hosting looks cheaper, but factor in your time
per month
Best for: Business owners, non-technical users, those who value time over money
per month (hosting only)
Best for: Developers, IT professionals, learning environments
Think about it: If your hourly rate is ₦5,000 and you spend 10 hours/month on server management, that's ₦50,000 of your time. Managed hosting at ₦32,000/month saves you ₦18,000 PLUS you get expert support!
| Feature | Managed Hosting | Unmanaged Hosting |
|---|---|---|
| Server Setup | Done for you | You do it yourself |
| Security Updates | Automatic | Manual |
| Server Monitoring | 24/7 by experts | Set up your own |
| Backups | Automatic daily | Configure yourself |
| Performance Optimization | Included | DIY optimization |
| Technical Support | Expert server support | Basic/limited support |
| Root Access | Limited/on request | Full access |
| Custom Configuration | Request through support | Complete freedom |
| Learning Opportunity | Limited | High - hands-on experience |
| Monthly Cost | Higher (₦32,000+/month) | Lower (₦500-4,500/month) |
| Time Investment | Minimal | 5-20+ hours/month |
| Technical Skills Needed | Basic | Advanced Linux/server skills |
| Best For | Businesses, busy professionals | Developers, IT professionals |
See exactly what's managed in each hosting type
Firewall config, malware scanning, intrusion detection, SSL management, security patches
OS updates, control panel updates, PHP versions, database updates
Daily backups, off-site storage, easy restore, backup monitoring
Caching setup, server tuning, resource monitoring, load balancing
Uptime monitoring, proactive issue resolution, expert assistance
Configure firewall, install security tools, monitor for threats, apply patches
Manually update OS, install packages, manage dependencies, fix conflicts
Set up backup scripts, configure storage, test restores, automate
Research best practices, tune settings, benchmark, troubleshoot slowdowns
Debug issues yourself, search forums, read documentation, trial and error
"With thousands of daily transactions, we can't afford downtime. Managed hosting gives us peace of mind."
Managed Hosting
"We run multiple client projects and need full control. Unmanaged VPS lets us configure everything perfectly."
Unmanaged Hosting
"Client confidentiality is paramount. Managed hosting handles security so we focus on legal work."
Managed Hosting
"Learning server administration is part of my education. Unmanaged hosting teaches me real skills."
Unmanaged Hosting
"Regulatory compliance requires expert security management. Managed hosting helps us meet NDPC requirements."
Managed Hosting
"We create websites, not manage servers. Managed hosting lets us focus on our clients' success."
Managed HostingBoth options include free SSL, Nigerian support, and 30-day money-back guarantee.
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