Web hosting has a huge canvas, and there are various types of hosting servers available in the market. Remote Desktop Protocol and Virtual Private Server are two such servers that offer online space to people or businesses.
Especially in the world where remote working and meetings are a common thing, these servers are a blessing. VPS hosting and RDP hosting allow you to access high-quality services through web hosting.
These two terms, remote desktop protocol and virtual private server, i.e., RDP and VPS, are often used interchangeably in this world of remote computing. However, they serve distinct purposes and have unique features that cater to specific needs.
In this blog, we will delve into the differences between RDP and VPS hosting, exploring their definitions, primary use, security levels, cost implications, and platform dependencies.
Difference between RDP and VPS
| Feature | RDP | VPS |
| Definition | Remote Desktop Protocol enables the users to connect to a remote computer or server and control it as if they were physically present with the machine. It is a protocol developed by Microsoft. | Virtual Private Server operates as an independent entity that has its own operating system and resources allowing unique configuration to the users. It is a server that was created by dividing a physical server into multiple virtual servers. |
| Primary use | RDP allows users to connect to remote systems (Windows-based computers)and control the computer. | A VPS serves various purposes like web hosting, running server software, application hosting, etc. It provides a dedicated portion of server resources that allow control and configuration. |
| Scope | RDP can connect the user to a particular type of computer or server. Windows 10/11 onwards. | With VPS, the scope is very vast. It works on different versions of Windows operating systems as well as Linux servers. |
| Security Level | RDP usage is best secured through code encryption. | VPS has a better and superior security system than RDP. Since there is no sharing of resources between the users, it is more isolated. |
| Cost | RDP is a built-in feature that is installed in Windows computers. There is no cost involved unless and until you buy an additional license or advanced version. | VPS users can choose how to pay, monthly or yearly, when it comes to the fees of the server. Various factors determine the cost of VPS. Linux VPS hosting in India also has a higher upfront cost compared to shared hosting. |
| Platform Dependency | Since RDP is developed by Microsoft, it is only operated on the Windows Operating System. That being said, integration with other operating systems is possible. | VS isn’t limited to a certain operating system or server services. Users can choose between various operating systems based on their convenience, including Linux VPS servers and Windows. |
| Access | RDP provides graphic-level or remote access to the physical network connection. | VPS offers root-level controls for configuration, administrative access, and software environment. |
Conclusion
We can summarise the discussion by saying that RDP serves as a powerful tool for remote desktop access; at the same time, Linux VPS offers a dedicated hosting environment with greater customisation and security.
That being said, RDP is a very narrow and unique-to-Windows kind of service. It provides benefits in a limited way. While it can be convenient to some users, others might find it tiring and limiting. VPS, on the other hand, is a broader and vast concept.