Have you ever encountered your website or gaming server crash with no apparent cause? In some cases, it is not even your fault, as it could be a DDoS attack. This is when hackers flood your server with fake traffic causing it to become unusable. Then companies sell DDoS protected VPS systems. The real question is whether you even need DDoS protection, or merely the extra cost.
The primary advantages are:
• Rely on an online store where your downtime results in lost sales.
• Host game servers (trolls love attacking game servers).
• Handle business apps or private data.
I once knew a guy who had a small Minecraft server. Every few weeks, trolls were knocking it offline. Once he set up a DDoS protected VPS, players didn’t even notice each time an attack happened.
• Have a personal blog
• Have a little test site
• Trying out how to use VPS
…then you'll save your cash. Most of the small sites probably don't get attacked. Why buy fire insurance when you don't even light candles?
• Do I get one included?
• How much for the “advanced” protection?
• Is my site even important enough to want to pay for: "Is it worth it?"
Ask yourself this: Would a DDoS attack ruin my week, or just be a little inconvenience? Think about you will likely find out if it is worth it.
What is DDoS Protection?
The analogy of a traffic jam best describes a DDoS attack. There are too many cars on the street to move. The same is true when a hacker DDoS attacks your server by flooding it with fake requests and no real users. DDoS protection acts like a traffic cop; it lets all the visitors through, but stops fake traffic from passing.The primary advantages are:
- Guarantees uptime when under attack.
- Protects your business from downtime that could cost you money or trust.
- Is sanity insurance on important projects.
When You Actually Need It
You pay for DDoS protection if you:• Rely on an online store where your downtime results in lost sales.
• Host game servers (trolls love attacking game servers).
• Handle business apps or private data.
I once knew a guy who had a small Minecraft server. Every few weeks, trolls were knocking it offline. Once he set up a DDoS protected VPS, players didn’t even notice each time an attack happened.
When to Skip It
Not everyone's going to need this. If you simply:• Have a personal blog
• Have a little test site
• Trying out how to use VPS
…then you'll save your cash. Most of the small sites probably don't get attacked. Why buy fire insurance when you don't even light candles?
The Cost Dilemma
Some VPS providers will give you basic DDoS protection for free. Others will charge you extra, and it can mean a lot of money. Before buying, ask yourself:• Do I get one included?
• How much for the “advanced” protection?
• Is my site even important enough to want to pay for: "Is it worth it?"
My Opinion
Think of it like car insurance: If there's a high risk, I get it. If there's no risk, I don't waste my money. A DDoS protected VPS is very good for important projects, but not worth it for small sites.Final Word
So is DDoS protected VPS a requirement, or a waste of money? It depends on your project. Paying for it makes sense, if downtime would hurt you, if not, spend the cash on something else - faster storage or more ram.Ask yourself this: Would a DDoS attack ruin my week, or just be a little inconvenience? Think about you will likely find out if it is worth it.