Managed web hosting refers to a dedicated hosting service in which the provider maintains complete control and care of the client's web server at all times. This is a useful and convenient solution for an individual or company that requires a dedicated server but does not have the time or lacks the resources to facilitate the necessities of their server on a constant basis. Managed web hosting is an arrangement in which the hosting provider retains control of the web server. While the client does have access to every aspect of the server, they are not required to do anything to maintain its stability or functionality. The hosting provider takes care of it all. In fact, some services that are normally available to dedicated server users are restricted to availability only on an as-needed basis. This isn't anything out of the ordinary, though. Managed web hosting providers often do this to prevent the development of security vulnerabilities due to avoidable client mistakes.

Managed web hosting provides multiple options in taking care of the consumer's hosting needs.  Some managed web hosting services only provide the hardware needed for a web server, and they routinely update it and do other things necessary to maintain its usability. There are some, however, that provide the hosting together with the software that assists in the application of the server. 
 
The provider maintains control of the web server with managed web hosting. They also take care of the hardware and operating systems and do what is necessary to keep the server running smoothly. Users most times will have limited access over their systems, and are often only allowed to do changes via a FTP tool. While it may that users are limited in their access, managed web hosting does provide better security for the web servers.
 
You can have more control over your web server operations if you opt for unmanaged web hosting, but, the hosting provider will only provide the hardware and operating systems needed for the server; they also provide the internet connection. The security of the web server and other such issues will also be in the hands of the user, so understanding how the web server works is important.
 
You might want to consider a dedicated server under a managed web hosting plan if you require more freedom and flexibility with your web server. Your server will be more secure because it is not shared by thousands of websites or clients. Thus, you will be able to enjoy all of your resources, and more importantly, your system will run at a much faster speed.

Having a dedicated server, and more importantly, managed web hosting, means more flexibility with software applications, freedom to set up websites as you see fit, and increased security. You don't get any of these options when sharing a server with other users, so you can see that advantage right there. Another thing to point out is the fact that you can upgrade your server at any time, and as many times as you want within the future.

One important thing to make a note of is the fact that managed web hosting is more expensive when compared to that of shared or unmanaged, but this is because of the cost required to receive above said benefits. Managed web hosting allows a company to focus only on their website, while the hosting provider takes care of all technical aspects of their web server.

When trying to decide whether or not you require managed web hosting, consider all of the services that you will require from your hosting provider. This will be a major factor in determining the type of hosting that you choose for your website. If you are a start-up business, keep in mind that there will come a day in the future when you will expand, and so, you will eventually need more resources. Additionally, as your website grows, you will probably require more support from your web host to ensure that your website stays online securely.

You should look for a managed web hosting provider that is able to offer you around the clock support every day of the week. It is also important to check that they have some type of coverage for downtime that may occur. Most hosts have backup power sources in the event of an outage to reduce or eliminate the downtime your website. If a hosting provider is unable to prevent your website from going offline, then, they will reimburse the cost of the downtime to compensate for any loss you may have suffered.

Managed web hosting does come with a higher price tag than shared or unmanaged hosting, but that price is not unwarranted. You gain the advantage of only having to focus on your own data instead of worrying about if someone else might do something to affect your websites. Plus, you don't have to worry about hardware or software issues since that's already being taken care of for you.
 
You might want to think long term when you are looking to find a good managed web hosting provider because you will have to expand once your website grows. So, you would want to have the extra bandwidth just in case, even though you might not need very much at the moment. Failing to plan ahead may lead to unpleasant overage charges if you exceed your account limits.
 
One thing to keep in mind is that it really doesn't matter what kind of web hosting you want, but customer support is important. It can mean the difference between you having a successful website operation and complete disaster. You need a managed web hosting company that offers 24 hour support every single day of the year. This will ensure that you have the best web hosting experience, and should problems with your server arise, you will be able to have them corrected within a relatively short amount of time. This will greatly impact your reputation and level of service among your own customers.

Aside from those things, you should always inquire about the reputation of any company that interests you. You want to host your website with a company that has a proven track record of being reliable and providing excellent support.