# Hosting and Cloud Glossary > URL: https://www.atlantic.net/resources/glossary/ | Updated: 2026-09-16 Understand the terms used to choose and manage hosting infrastructure. Browse definitions for servers, cloud platforms, storage, databases, security, and recovery. Links lead to explanatory resources or clearly labeled hosting services. 81 terms across 18 letters ## A ### AI (Artificial Intelligence) Artificial intelligence is the field of developing computer systems that perform tasks such as recognizing patterns, understanding language, making predictions, or generating content. It includes machine learning and other approaches. In hosting, AI workloads can involve training models or running inference, with resource requirements determined by the model and application. [Read more about Artificial Intelligence](https://aws.amazon.com/what-is/artificial-intelligence/). ### AI Inference AI inference is the process of using a trained model to produce an output from new input. Examples include generating a response to a prompt, classifying an image, or predicting demand. The model, response-time target, and request volume determine the computing resources required. [Read more about AI Inference](https://www.nvidia.com/en-gb/glossary/ai-inference/). ### Apache HTTP Server Apache HTTP Server is open-source web server software maintained by the Apache Software Foundation. It serves website content over HTTP and HTTPS and can pass requests to application services. Administrators use its modules and configuration files to control functions such as authentication, logging, and request routing. [Read more about Apache HTTP Server](https://www.atlantic.net/vps-hosting/what-is-an-apache-server/). ### API (Application Programming Interface) An application programming interface defines how software components communicate and request functions or data from one another. Hosting APIs can automate tasks such as creating servers, managing storage, or retrieving account information. Available operations, authentication requirements, request limits, and response formats are described in the provider's API documentation. [Read more about APIs](https://aws.amazon.com/what-is/api/). ## B ### BaaS (Backup as a Service) Backup as a Service delivers backup capabilities through a service provider, usually with subscription or usage-based pricing. The service can include backup software, storage, scheduling, monitoring, and restoration support. Customers should confirm which systems are protected, how long copies are retained, where data is stored, and who performs and tests restores. [Explore Managed Backup services](https://www.atlantic.net/managed-services/veeam-services/). ### Backup A backup is a recoverable copy of data kept for use when the original is lost, damaged, or unavailable. Backups can cover files, databases, or entire systems. Their usefulness depends on the recovery points retained, protection against deletion or attack, and successful restoration testing. [Explore Backup services](https://www.atlantic.net/cloud-platform/backups/). ### Bandwidth Bandwidth is the data-carrying capacity of a network connection, usually expressed in megabits or gigabits per second. Actual transfer speeds also depend on congestion, latency, and the systems at each end. Hosting plans sometimes use “bandwidth” to describe a monthly data-transfer allowance, so check whether a stated limit measures capacity or total usage. [Read more about Bandwidth](https://developer.mozilla.org/en-US/docs/Glossary/Bandwidth). ### Bare Metal Server A bare metal server is a physical server allocated to one customer, with direct access to its hardware resources. The customer can install an operating system or virtualization software. Hosting providers often use “bare metal server” and “dedicated server” for closely related offerings. [Explore Bare Metal Server services](https://www.atlantic.net/dedicated-server-hosting/bare-metal-servers/). ### Big Data Big data describes datasets whose volume, speed of arrival, or variety makes them difficult to process with conventional tools. Examples include large collections of application logs, transaction records, and sensor readings. Big data systems often distribute storage and processing across multiple machines to support analysis, reporting, or machine learning. [Read more about Big Data](https://aws.amazon.com/what-is/big-data/). ### Block Storage Block storage presents data to a server as individually addressable blocks, usually within a volume that the operating system treats as a disk. The server can format that volume with a file system or use it for database storage. Performance depends on the underlying storage and connection. [Read more about Block Storage](https://www.atlantic.net/vps-hosting/what-is-block-storage/). ### Business Continuity Business continuity is an organization's ability to maintain essential operations during and after a disruption. Planning covers people, facilities, suppliers, communications, and technology, including alternative ways to deliver critical services. Disaster recovery supports business continuity by restoring IT systems, while the broader continuity plan addresses how the organization continues operating. [Read more about Business Continuity](https://www.ibm.com/think/topics/business-continuity). ## C ### CDN Service A content delivery network (CDN) service uses distributed servers to deliver website content closer to users. It can cache files such as images, stylesheets, and videos, reducing requests to the original hosting server. Some CDNs also accelerate dynamic traffic or provide security features. Results depend on caching rules, content type, and network coverage. [Read more about CDN services](https://aws.amazon.com/what-is/cdn/). ### Cloud Hosting Cloud hosting runs websites or applications using computing resources supplied through a cloud platform. Resources can be provisioned and adjusted as workloads change. Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) is one cloud service model; cloud hosting can also include services that manage more of the application environment. ### Cloud Infrastructure Cloud infrastructure is the collection of hardware and software that supports cloud computing services. It includes servers, storage, networking, virtualization, and management systems used to allocate resources to workloads. This infrastructure can support public, private, or hybrid cloud environments, with capacity and availability shaped by the underlying architecture. [Read more about Cloud Infrastructure](https://aws.amazon.com/what-is/cloud-infrastructure/). ### Cloud Migration Cloud migration is the process of moving applications, data, or other IT resources into a cloud environment or between cloud providers. A migration may transfer an existing system largely unchanged or redesign parts of it for new services. Planning includes dependencies, security, data transfer, testing, service cutover, and a rollback approach. [Explore Cloud Migration services](https://www.atlantic.net/managed-services/migration-services/). ### Cloud Native Cloud native describes an approach to building and operating applications that uses cloud capabilities such as automated deployment, flexible scaling, and service-based architecture. Containers, APIs, and microservices are common components, though the implementation varies. Cloud-native applications can run in public, private, or hybrid environments; moving an existing application to cloud hosting alone does not make it cloud native. [Read more about Cloud Native](https://aws.amazon.com/what-is/cloud-native/). ### Cloud Platform A cloud platform brings together computing services and the tools used to provision and manage them. It may offer virtual servers, storage, networking, databases, and application services through a control panel or API. Available features, supported software, billing methods, and the division of management responsibilities vary between platforms. [Explore Cloud Platform services](https://www.atlantic.net/cloud-platform/). ### Cloud Portability Cloud portability is the ability to move applications and data between cloud environments while preserving their intended operation. It depends on compatible runtimes, data formats, APIs, and supporting services. Containers and open standards can reduce migration work, while provider-specific features and dependencies can make a move more difficult. [Read more about Portability Across Cloud Environments](https://www.redhat.com/en/topics/cloud-computing/what-is-multicloud). ### Cloud Provider A cloud provider is a company that supplies computing services such as virtual servers, storage, networking, or hosted applications. The provider operates the infrastructure needed to deliver its services. Customer responsibilities for software, access controls, data protection, and recovery depend on the service model and the terms of the agreement. [Explore Cloud Hosting services](https://www.atlantic.net/cloud-platform/). ### Cloud Storage Cloud storage holds data on infrastructure accessed through a cloud service over a network. It can provide object storage, block volumes, or shared file systems, each suited to different access patterns. Capacity, performance, data location, access controls, and charges for requests or transfers depend on the selected service. [Read more about Cloud Storage](https://aws.amazon.com/what-is/cloud-storage/). ### Cluster A cluster is a group of connected computers or service instances, called nodes, that work together on a workload. Clusters can distribute processing, pool resources, or help services remain available when a node fails. Their behavior depends on the software, networking, storage, and failure-handling design; having multiple nodes alone does not guarantee uninterrupted service. [Explore Infrastructure Cluster services](https://www.atlantic.net/dedicated-server-hosting/infrastructure-cluster-solutions/). ### Colocation Hosting Colocation hosting places customer-owned servers in a provider’s data center. The provider supplies agreed facilities such as rack space, power, cooling, connectivity, and physical security. The customer retains ownership of the equipment, while hardware maintenance and any additional management services follow the contract. [Read more about Colocation Hosting](https://www.atlantic.net/orlando-colocation-hosting-data-center/what-is-colocation-hosting/). ### Container A container is an isolated environment for running an application and its required files and dependencies. Operating-system containers share the kernel of the system on which they run, rather than each requiring a separate guest operating system. Their portability and isolation depend on compatible platforms, runtime configuration, resource limits, and security controls. [Read more about Containers](https://docs.docker.com/get-started/docker-concepts/the-basics/what-is-a-container/). ### cPanel cPanel is a web-based control panel for managing hosting accounts on supported Linux servers. It provides tools for tasks such as managing website files, domains, email accounts, databases, and backups. Its companion product, WebHost Manager (WHM), supports server-level and account administration. Available features depend on the hosting plan and administrator's configuration. [Read more about cPanel](https://docs.cpanel.net/cpanel/). ## D ### Database Hosting Database hosting supplies the infrastructure on which a database system, such as MySQL or Microsoft SQL Server, runs. The customer may administer the database themselves or purchase management services. Responsibilities for patching, backups, replication, and recovery depend on the agreed service scope. ### Data Center A data center is a facility that houses servers, storage systems, and networking equipment. It supplies supporting infrastructure such as electrical power, cooling, connectivity, and physical security. Data centers may serve a single organization or multiple customers. Redundancy, maintenance procedures, and the services included vary between facilities. [Explore Data Center facilities](https://www.atlantic.net/hipaa-data-centers/). ### DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) A distributed denial-of-service attack attempts to make a system unavailable by overwhelming its network, services, or application with traffic from multiple sources. Attacks can exhaust bandwidth, connection capacity, or application resources. Protection may combine upstream traffic filtering, rate limits, application controls, and a response plan suited to the services being protected. [Read more about DDoS attacks and protection](https://aws.amazon.com/shield/ddos-attack-protection/). ### Dedicated Hosting Dedicated hosting is a service that provides one or more physical servers for a single customer's use. The customer receives access to the server's allocated hardware resources without sharing that server with other hosting customers. The service may be managed or self-managed, with maintenance, monitoring, backups, and security responsibilities defined in the agreement. [Explore Dedicated Hosting services](https://www.atlantic.net/dedicated-server-hosting/). ### Dedicated Hosting Provider A dedicated hosting provider supplies physical servers reserved for individual customers, together with agreed data center facilities and connectivity. Providers differ in their hardware options, deployment locations, support arrangements, and management services. The contract should identify responsibilities for hardware replacement, operating system maintenance, security controls, backups, and incident response. [Explore Atlantic.Net Dedicated Hosting](https://www.atlantic.net/dedicated-server-hosting/). ### Dedicated Server A dedicated server is a physical server reserved for one customer’s use. Its processor, memory, and local storage are allocated to that customer, who can run applications directly or install virtualization software. Operating system maintenance, backups, and monitoring depend on the hosting agreement. [Explore Dedicated Server services](https://www.atlantic.net/dedicated-server-hosting/). ### Disaster Recovery Disaster recovery is the planned process of restoring IT systems and data after a serious disruption. It covers recovery priorities, people, procedures, and the infrastructure needed to resume service. Backups can support recovery, while testing establishes whether applications and their dependencies can return within agreed targets. [Explore Disaster Recovery services](https://www.atlantic.net/disaster-recovery/). ### DNS (Domain Name System) The Domain Name System is a distributed naming system that associates domain names with records used by internet services. These records can identify server IP addresses, mail servers, and other configuration information. DNS resolvers retrieve and cache the records, so changes may not reach every user immediately when an existing cached record remains valid. [Read more about DNS](https://aws.amazon.com/route53/what-is-dns/). ### Docker Docker is a set of tools for building, distributing, and running containerized applications. Developers package application code and dependencies into images, which a compatible runtime uses to create containers. Docker can make development and deployment environments more consistent. Persistent data, networking, image updates, and access permissions still require configuration and management. [Read more about Docker](https://docs.docker.com/get-started/docker-overview/). ## F ### Firewall A firewall allows or blocks network traffic according to configured rules. It can run on a server, in a network appliance, or as a hosted service. Rules may consider addresses, ports, connection state, or application information. Effective protection depends on appropriate configuration and ongoing maintenance. [Explore Firewall services](https://www.atlantic.net/managed-services/firewall/). ### FTP (File Transfer Protocol) File Transfer Protocol is a network protocol for transferring files between a client and a server. Standard FTP does not encrypt credentials or file contents in transit. Encrypted alternatives include FTPS, which adds TLS protection to FTP, and SFTP, a separate file-transfer protocol that operates over SSH. [Read more about FTP, FTPS, and SFTP](https://docs.aws.amazon.com/transfer/latest/userguide/what-is-aws-transfer-family.html). ## G ### GPU A graphics processing unit (GPU) is a processor designed to perform many calculations in parallel. GPUs handle graphics rendering and can accelerate workloads such as machine learning and scientific computing. Available memory, software support, and the workload’s processing pattern affect whether a particular GPU is suitable. [Explore GPU services](https://www.atlantic.net/gpu-server-hosting/). ## H ### HIPAA Business Associate Agreement (BAA) A HIPAA Business Associate Agreement (BAA) sets out a business associate’s obligations when handling Protected Health Information (PHI) for a covered entity or another business associate. It addresses permitted uses, safeguards, and reporting duties. Signing a BAA is one part of meeting applicable HIPAA requirements. [Read more about HIPAA Business Associate Agreement (BAA)](https://www.atlantic.net/what-is-baa-hipaa-business-associate-agreement/). ### Host A host is a physical or virtual computer that runs software or provides services on a network. In virtualization, the host is the system that runs the hypervisor and its guest virtual machines. In web hosting, the term can also refer to the company supplying hosting services. [Read more about Hosts](https://developer.mozilla.org/en-US/docs/Glossary/Host). ### Hybrid Cloud Hybrid cloud connects public cloud services with private cloud or on-premises infrastructure so that applications and data can work across environments. Organizations may use it to retain existing systems while adding cloud-based capacity or services. Effective operation requires suitable connectivity, identity management, security controls, monitoring, and clearly defined responsibilities across the connected systems. [Read more about Hybrid Cloud](https://aws.amazon.com/what-is/hybrid-cloud/). ### Hyper-V Hyper-V is Microsoft's hardware virtualization technology, available in Windows Server and supported editions of Windows. It creates virtual machines with their own operating systems, virtual disks, and network connections. Server deployments can use features such as live migration, clustering, and replication, subject to the Windows edition, hardware, and configuration. [Read more about Hyper-V](https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-server/virtualization/hyper-v/overview). ### Hypervisor A hypervisor is the software layer that creates and runs virtual machines while managing their access to physical computing resources. Type 1 hypervisors operate directly on hardware, while Type 2 hypervisors run through a host operating system. Resource scheduling, isolation, device support, and management features differ between implementations. [Read more about Hypervisors](https://aws.amazon.com/what-is/hypervisor/). ## I ### Infrastructure IT infrastructure is the combination of hardware, software, networks, and supporting facilities used to operate technology services. It includes components such as servers, storage, operating systems, switches, power, and cooling. Infrastructure may be located on premises, supplied by a hosting provider, or distributed across several environments. [Explore Infrastructure Cluster solutions](https://www.atlantic.net/dedicated-server-hosting/infrastructure-cluster-solutions/). ### Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) Infrastructure as a Service supplies processing, storage, and networking resources that customers use to run software. The provider manages the underlying cloud infrastructure; the customer controls operating systems and deployed applications. Additional management services can change who performs particular tasks, so responsibilities should be documented. [Read more about Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)](https://www.atlantic.net/dedicated-server-hosting/what-is-iaas/). ### Internet Information Services (IIS) Internet Information Services is Microsoft’s web server software for Windows. It serves web content and hosts applications through a configurable request-processing system. Application pools provide boundaries between groups of applications, but several applications can share a pool and its worker process, depending on configuration. [Read more about Internet Information Services (IIS)](https://www.atlantic.net/vps-hosting/what-is-an-iis-server/). ### IP Address An Internet Protocol address identifies a network interface and helps direct traffic to its destination. IPv4 uses 32-bit addresses, while IPv6 uses 128-bit addresses. Public addresses can be routed across the internet; private addresses are used within private networks. A device can have multiple addresses, and an address does not necessarily identify one person or website. [Read more about IP Addresses](https://developer.mozilla.org/en-US/docs/Glossary/IP_Address). ## K ### KVM (Kernel-based Virtual Machine) Kernel-based Virtual Machine is an open-source virtualization technology built into the Linux kernel. It uses hardware virtualization support to run virtual machines with their own operating systems and resources. KVM is commonly combined with QEMU, which provides virtual hardware and other supporting functions, and management tools that handle provisioning, networking, and storage. [Read more about KVM](https://linux-kvm.org/page/Main_Page). ## L ### Load Balancer A load balancer distributes incoming traffic across multiple servers or application instances. Depending on its configuration, it can check backend health and direct requests to available destinations. It supports capacity and availability, while session handling, application design, and the load balancer’s own resilience still need consideration. [Explore Load Balancer services](https://www.atlantic.net/managed-services/load-balancing/). ## M ### Managed Hosting Managed hosting includes agreed administration tasks alongside the hosting infrastructure. These may cover operating system updates, monitoring, backups, or security controls. Coverage varies between providers and plans. The service agreement should identify who maintains applications, responds to alerts, restores data, and handles work outside the standard scope. [Read more about Managed Hosting](https://www.atlantic.net/dedicated-server-hosting/what-is-managed-hosting/). ### Microsoft SQL Server (MSSQL) Microsoft SQL Server is a relational database management system that stores structured data and supports queries using Transact-SQL (T-SQL). Applications use it to read and update records, enforce data relationships, and process transactions. Available features and deployment options depend on the selected version and edition. [Read more about Microsoft SQL Server (MSSQL)](https://www.atlantic.net/vps-hosting/what-is-mssql/). ### ML (Machine Learning) Machine learning is a branch of artificial intelligence that develops models by learning patterns from data. These models can support tasks such as forecasting demand, detecting unusual transactions, or classifying images. Training develops the model, while inference applies it to new inputs. Accuracy depends on data quality, model design, and evaluation. [Read more about Machine Learning](https://aws.amazon.com/what-is/machine-learning/). ### Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Multi-factor authentication requires evidence from at least two different categories: something you know, something you have, or something you are. A password combined with a security key is one example. Two passwords belong to the same factor category. Protection varies with the authentication method and account-recovery process. [Explore Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) services](https://www.atlantic.net/managed-services/multi-factor-authentication/). ### MySQL MySQL is an open-source relational database management system that uses SQL to store, retrieve, and update structured data. It organizes information into tables and supports applications such as WordPress. Hosting a MySQL database also requires decisions about access controls, backups, software updates, and recovery. [Read more about MySQL](https://www.atlantic.net/dedicated-server-hosting/what-is-mysql/). ## N ### NFS (Network File System) Network File System is a protocol that allows a computer to access files and directories stored on another system over a network. It is commonly used for shared storage in Linux and Unix environments, with support also available on other platforms. Permissions, identity mapping, network access, and protocol configuration determine how clients can use a share. [Read more about NFS](https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-server/storage/nfs/nfs-overview). ### NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) Non-Volatile Memory Express is a storage interface and protocol designed for efficient access to non-volatile storage, especially solid-state drives. Local NVMe drives commonly connect through PCI Express, while NVMe over Fabrics extends access across a network. Performance depends on the drive, connection, queue handling, and workload, rather than the NVMe label alone. [Read more about NVMe](https://www.ibm.com/think/topics/nvme). ## O ### Object Storage Object storage holds data as objects, each containing the data itself, metadata, and an identifier. Applications usually access objects through an API within a bucket or similar container. It is commonly used for images, videos, backups, and large datasets. Object storage has different access behavior from a mounted block volume or shared file system. [Read more about Object Storage](https://aws.amazon.com/what-is/object-storage/). ### One-Click Application A one-click application is a preconfigured software deployment available through a hosting platform or control panel. It automates steps such as installing a web server, database, or content management system. Users still need to review credentials, configure the application, and arrange updates, security controls, and backups after deployment. [Explore One-Click Applications on the Cloud Platform](https://www.atlantic.net/cloud-platform/). ### OS (Operating System) An operating system manages a computer's processor, memory, storage, devices, and access to hardware. It also provides the environment in which applications run. Server operating systems include Linux distributions and Windows Server. Software compatibility, licensing, security updates, administration tools, and support requirements influence which operating system suits a workload. [Read more about Operating Systems](https://www.ibm.com/think/topics/operating-systems). ### OVN/OVS Open Virtual Network (OVN) and Open vSwitch (OVS) are related open-source networking technologies. OVS provides software switching that forwards traffic between virtual interfaces and networks. OVN adds logical switches, routers, and access policies that are translated into configurations for OVS. Together, they support software-defined networking for virtualized and cloud environments. [Read more about OVN](https://www.ovn.org/en/). [Read more about Open vSwitch](https://www.openvswitch.org/). ## P ### PCI Hosting PCI hosting describes hosting services intended to support Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) requirements. The provider’s assessed services and responsibilities should be clear. A customer’s compliance also depends on its applications, access controls, processes, and the full scope of its payment environment. [Explore PCI Hosting services](https://www.atlantic.net/pci-compliant-hosting/#WhatisPCIHosting). ### Platform as a Service (PaaS) Platform as a Service provides an environment for deploying applications while the provider manages the underlying infrastructure, operating systems, and supported runtime components. Customers manage their application code and data. Supported languages, database services, configuration options, and operational responsibilities vary between platforms. [Read more about Platform as a Service (PaaS)](https://www.atlantic.net/dedicated-server-hosting/what-is-paas/). ### Plesk Plesk is a hosting control panel available for supported Linux and Windows servers. It provides a web interface for managing websites, domains, email, databases, certificates, and hosting subscriptions. Extensions can add application and administration tools. Available features depend on the operating system, license, installed extensions, and settings chosen by the administrator. [Read more about Plesk](https://docs.plesk.com/en-US/obsidian/). ### Private Cloud Hosting Private cloud hosting provides cloud infrastructure for the exclusive use of one organization. It can be operated on the organization’s premises or by a hosting provider. Resources remain available to multiple internal users or teams, with cloud capabilities such as self-service provisioning and resource pooling. [Read more about Private Cloud Hosting](https://www.atlantic.net/vps-hosting/what-is-private-cloud-hosting/). ### Private Hosting Private hosting is a broad marketing term whose meaning varies between providers. It may describe a virtual private server, dedicated hardware, or a private cloud. Check what is reserved for your organization: a VPS can provide a separate operating system while sharing the physical server with other customers. ### Proxmox Proxmox Virtual Environment, commonly called Proxmox VE, is an open-source platform for managing virtual machines and containers. It combines KVM virtualization and LXC containers with tools for storage, networking, backups, and clustering. Administrators use its web interface or command-line tools to manage hosts and workloads, with availability features dependent on the deployment design. [Read more about Proxmox VE](https://www.proxmox.com/en/products/proxmox-virtual-environment/overview). ### Public Cloud Public cloud provides computing services offered by a provider to many customers. Customers can provision resources such as virtual servers, storage, or managed applications without owning the underlying infrastructure. Physical resources are often shared, with access controls separating customer environments. “Public” describes service availability and does not mean that a customer's data is publicly accessible. [Read more about Public Cloud](https://aws.amazon.com/what-is/public-cloud/). ## R ### Recovery Point Objective (RPO) Recovery point objective describes the point in time to which data must be recovered after an outage. It is commonly expressed as an acceptable data-loss interval. An RPO of 15 minutes means planning to recover data to a point no more than 15 minutes before disruption. [Read more about Recovery Point Objective (RPO)](https://csrc.nist.gov/glossary/term/recovery_point_objective). ### Recovery Time Objective (RTO) Recovery time objective is the target time for restoring a system or service after disruption. An RTO of two hours means planning to resume the agreed service within that period. Recovery procedures must account for dependencies, data restoration, checks, and the people needed to complete the work. [Read more about Recovery Time Objective (RTO)](https://csrc.nist.gov/glossary/term/recovery_time_objective). ## S ### Server Migration Server migration moves a server's applications, data, or complete operating environment to another physical or virtual server. It may involve a hardware replacement, operating system change, or move to another hosting provider. The migration plan should cover compatibility, data synchronization, configuration changes, testing, service cutover, and recovery if the new environment does not work as expected. [Explore Server Migration services](https://www.atlantic.net/managed-services/migration-services/). ### Server Virtualization Server virtualization uses a software layer called a hypervisor to run multiple virtual machines on physical hardware. Each virtual machine has its own operating system and allocated resources. This allows workloads to share a server, while performance and isolation depend on resource allocation and configuration. [Read more about Server Virtualization](https://www.atlantic.net/vps-hosting/what-is-server-virtualization/). ### Snapshot A snapshot records the state of a storage volume or virtual machine at a particular time. It can provide a recovery point before a change or help create another environment. How snapshots are stored and restored varies between platforms. A snapshot is not automatically an independently protected backup; its usefulness depends on consistency, storage location, and retention. [Explore Snapshot and Backup services](https://www.atlantic.net/cloud-platform/backups/). ### Software as a Service (SaaS) Software as a Service delivers a provider-hosted application that customers access through a browser, client, or API. The provider manages the underlying infrastructure and application software. Customers typically control their data and available settings. Pricing may use subscriptions, usage charges, or other commercial arrangements. [Read more about Software as a Service (SaaS)](https://www.atlantic.net/vps-hosting/what-is-saas-hosting/). ### Storage Area Network (SAN) A storage area network connects servers to shared block storage through a specialized network. Technologies such as Fibre Channel and iSCSI carry storage traffic, allowing servers to access volumes as disks. Access controls and suitable file systems are needed when multiple servers use shared storage. [Read more about Storage Area Network (SAN)](https://www.atlantic.net/dedicated-server-hosting/what-is-a-san/). ## V ### Veeam Veeam is a provider of backup, recovery, and data-protection software and services. Its products protect supported virtual, physical, and cloud workloads, with capabilities such as scheduled backups, replication, and file-level restoration. Supported platforms and recovery options vary by product and license. A Veeam deployment still requires appropriate storage, access controls, monitoring, and restoration testing. [Explore Managed Veeam services](https://www.atlantic.net/managed-services/veeam-services/). ### Virtualization Virtualization uses software to represent physical computing resources as logical resources that can be allocated and managed separately. It can apply to servers, storage, networks, or desktops. Server virtualization uses hypervisors to run virtual machines, while other forms use different techniques. Resource sharing can improve utilization, but capacity planning and isolation remain important. [Read more about Virtualization](https://aws.amazon.com/what-is/virtualization/). ### Virtual Machine (VM) A virtual machine is a software-defined computer with virtual processors, memory, storage, and network interfaces. It runs its own operating system and applications, with a hypervisor managing access to the host's hardware. Multiple virtual machines can share one physical server, although their performance and isolation depend on the resources allocated and the virtualization configuration. [Read more about Virtual Machines](https://aws.amazon.com/what-is/virtualization/). ### Virtual Private Server (VPS) A virtual private server is a virtual machine used to host websites or applications. It has its own operating system and allocated computing resources, while the physical server may also host other customers’ virtual machines. The hosting plan determines which resources are shared and which are reserved. [Read more about Virtual Private Server (VPS)](https://www.atlantic.net/vps-hosting/what-is-vps-buyers-guide-and-expert-tips/). ### VMware VMware is a brand of virtualization and infrastructure software. Its technologies include the ESXi hypervisor, which runs virtual machines on physical servers, and vCenter Server, which manages virtualized environments. Specific capabilities, licensing, and supported configurations depend on the products and versions selected. [Read more about VMware](https://www.atlantic.net/dedicated-server-hosting/what-is-vmware/). ### vSphere vSphere is VMware's server virtualization platform, built around the ESXi hypervisor and centralized management through vCenter Server. It provides tools for managing virtual machines, hosts, storage, and networking. Capabilities such as live migration, high availability, and resource scheduling depend on the selected product entitlement, hardware compatibility, and configuration. [Read more about vSphere](https://www.vmware.com/products/cloud-infrastructure/vsphere). ## W ### Web Server Hosting Web server hosting supplies an environment for software such as Apache HTTP Server, NGINX, or IIS to deliver website content over HTTP and HTTPS. The environment may use shared hosting, virtual servers, or dedicated hardware. Responsibility for configuring and maintaining the web server depends on the service. [Read more about Web Server Hosting](https://www.atlantic.net/dedicated-server-hosting/what-is-web-server-hosting/). ### Website A website is a collection of related web pages and resources, usually accessed through a domain name. Its content may consist of stored files or be generated by applications and databases when a visitor makes a request. Hosting supplies the environment that delivers the site, while DNS helps visitors locate it. [Read more about Website Hosting](https://www.atlantic.net/dedicated-server-hosting/what-is-web-server-hosting/). ### WordPress WordPress is an open-source content management system used to create and manage websites. It provides an editing interface, themes for site design, and plugins for additional functionality. Self-hosted WordPress runs on a compatible web server with PHP and a MySQL or MariaDB database. Updates, access controls, and backups require ongoing attention. [Read more about WordPress](https://wordpress.org/about/). ## Award-Winning Hosting Solutions & Services Simple, Fast, Reliable Server Hosting ## Enterprise Hosting Designed Around Your Needs From single servers to fully managed clusters, we'll help you build the ideal infrastructure for your business. Call or email us now. 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