Before ordering a root server you should check seven points: virtualisation (KVM or container), whether the resources are dedicated, processor and storage type, connectivity, DDoS protection, location and contract model. If you tick these off, you compare offers by what matters in operation and not by the biggest number on the price list.
1. Virtualisation: KVM or container?
With many providers "root server" only means "root access". What matters is what runs underneath. KVM delivers a complete virtual machine with its own kernel, on which Windows and Docker run cleanly too. Containers (LXC, OpenVZ) share the host kernel, are cheaper but limited. If the technology is not stated in the offer, ask.
2. Dedicated or oversold?
Four cores are not four cores. Some providers sell the same cores several times and hope that not all customers generate load at the same time. At FameSystems CPU, RAM and storage are dedicated and not oversold. Look for wording such as "dedicated" or "guaranteed" in the offer, and be wary of "up to".
3. Processor and storage
| Feature | What to look for | At FameSystems |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Generation and clock speed, not just core count | AMD EPYC, AMD Ryzen 7000, Intel Xeon |
| Memory | DDR4 or DDR5, dedicated | Both selectable |
| Storage | NVMe instead of SATA SSD or HDD | NVMe with EPYC and Ryzen |
| Connectivity | Bandwidth and whether traffic is limited | 2× 10 Gbit/s |
4. DDoS protection: included or extra?
A server without DDoS protection is a server that goes offline at the first attack. Check whether protection is included in the price, how much bandwidth it absorbs and whether it is permanently active or only kicks in after a report. At FameSystems Arbor mitigation of up to 1 Tbit/s is included with every server and permanently active.
5. Location and data protection
For German customers and visitors a location in Germany counts twice: short latencies and GDPR without detours. Ask for the specific data centre and its certifications. FameSystems servers are located in Maincubes FRA01 in Frankfurt, certified to TÜV Level 3, DIN EN 50600 and ISO 27001.
6. Term, prices, cancellation
- Is there a minimum term or a prepaid model without commitment?
- Does the price stay stable for the term or are there teaser offers with later increases?
- Does setup cost extra?
- Are upgrades possible without reordering?
7. Support when it matters
The cheapest server is expensive if nobody is reachable at night. Check whether tickets are processed around the clock, whether there is a console for emergencies and whether you reach a human with questions. At FameSystems ticket support runs 24/7, by phone you get through Monday to Friday from 8 to 17.
Rent a root server at FameSystems
KVM, dedicated resources, NVMe, 2× 10 Gbit/s, Arbor DDoS protection and Frankfurt location. All packages with prices compared.