A VPS is a private server that runs around the clock with its own IP address and full control. That makes it useful for far more than websites. This guide tours 15 common uses, notes which operating system usually fits each one, and points you to where to start.
Before you start
Each use below is marked with the usual choice of server:
- Linux VPS for most web, app and automation work, managed over SSH.
- Windows VPS for Windows Server software, managed over Remote Desktop on port 3389.
- Windows Admin RDP for a Windows desktop you work in.
If you are not sure what a VPS is, read what is a VPS first.
Websites and web apps
1. Host a website or blog
Run WordPress or another CMS on Nginx or Apache with PHP and MariaDB. You control caching, PHP version and security. Usually Linux.
2. Host several websites on one server
Use virtual hosts to serve several domains from one VPS, or install a control panel to manage them. You get one from the vendor. Usually Linux.
3. Run an online shop
Shops built on WooCommerce, PrestaShop or Magento need steady performance and a database you can tune. Usually Linux.
4. Deploy a custom web app or API
Run Node.js, Python, PHP, Go or.NET apps behind a reverse proxy, kept alive by a process manager or systemd. Linux, or Windows for IIS and.NET Framework.
5. Run Docker containers
Package apps and their dependencies with Docker and Docker Compose, and run several services side by side. Usually Linux.
Trading and remote work
6. Run MetaTrader or other trading platforms
Keep MetaTrader 4/5 and expert advisors running 24/7 even when your PC is off, ideally on a server near your broker. Windows VPS or Admin RDP.
7. Keep a remote Windows desktop
Use one Windows desktop from your laptop, tablet or phone, with your browsers and office apps always open where you left them. Admin RDP.
8. Run desktop programs 24/7
Some tools only run as Windows desktop apps, such as monitoring tools or automation software. A remote desktop keeps them going after you disconnect. Admin RDP or Windows VPS.
Bots and automation
9. Host Discord and Telegram bots
Bots need to stay online. A small VPS runs several bots with a process manager that restarts them after a crash. Usually Linux.
10. Run scheduled scripts and scrapers
Use cron on Linux or Task Scheduler on Windows to run reports, data jobs or polite, rule-following scrapers on a schedule. Either.
11. Self-host useful tools
Run your own uptime monitor, dashboards, password manager, file sync or photo backup. Usually Linux with Docker.
Games, networking and development
12. Run a game server
Host Minecraft, Valheim, CS2 and many other dedicated servers for friends or a community. Location matters for ping. Linux for most games, Windows for some.
13. Run a private VPN
Set up WireGuard or Tailscale to reach your own services privately or protect your traffic on public Wi-Fi. Usually Linux.
14. Build a development or staging server
Test changes on a copy of your live site, run CI jobs, or give a team a shared environment. Either.
15. Learn system administration
A VPS is a safe place to learn Linux, Windows Server, networking and security. If you break it, reinstall the OS from your VPS provider's control panel and start again.
Check what fits
Pick your main use, then confirm three things before you order:
- Operating system: does your software need Windows, or does it run on Linux? See Linux VPS vs Windows VPS.
- Size: how much RAM and CPU does it need? See how much RAM a VPS needs.
- Location: close to your users, players or broker.
You can run several uses on one server, as long as the combined resources fit.
Troubleshooting common questions
- Many people use a separate email provider.
- "Do I need a domain?": not for bots, trading or remote desktops. For websites, buy a domain from a registrar and point it at your server IP.
- "Is it allowed to run X?": check the terms of service before running anything that sends bulk traffic or mail.
- "My use is not listed": ask MdmHost AI at /ai whether a VPS suits it.
Next steps
- Work out the plan you need: VPS buying checklist.