Has anyone tried using a hosted Raspberry Pi from a provider rather than hosting it at home? And more importantly, has anyone compared it to a basic VPS (the cheapest being one core)? I require to host multiple static sites, and I need to verify the availability of my main sites.
On the $4 VDS plan, the availability check (50 requests per minute) takes anywhere between 7-15 seconds, every half hour at exactly 0 and 30 minutes. It's possible that some resource-intensive applications are running on the same server, causing this delay.
Ideally, I would like to set everything up and forget about it for 5-7 years. However, with the inexpensive price of $800, it could be worth experimenting with. Although, considering the frailty of microSD cards, I have my suspicions about its longevity.
If the software is specifically compiled for arm microcomputers and does not work in emulation, it runs noticeably faster than on standard Intel computers. However, it's important to note that the use of microSD cards can cause a slowdown. As an administrator of virtual machines, I often encounter this issue with hosting providers whose disks run at a speed of 5mbps or even less.
When it comes to speed, a VDS will be faster than an SD card if the hosting provider doesn't oversell and become arrogant. Additionally, a microcomputer typically has twice as much RAM, which is likely faster. With 4GB of RAM, there is a lot of room for caching.
In terms of processing power, a hosting provider typically offers 2 virtual cores that are heavily populated, whereas a microcomputer has 4 virtual cores. However, it's worth noting that the SD card used in a microcomputer can be unreliable and requires frequent monitoring and backups.
Overall, if you're interested in using a microcomputer, I recommend giving it a try and sharing your experience with me.
Drawbacks of VDS/VPS include the possibility of someone else having control over it and potentially causing issues such as taking money out of your account, or stopping your VPS abruptly by claiming it's using too much CPU. In one case, FirstVDS used sh + files as a book reader, while the user only intended to create a Viber Bot. Additionally, there is a risk of not being able to access certain web-based service management interfaces if your phone does not support them. It's crucial to have a backup plan, such as using a computer that supports SSH, in case of any unforeseen issues with your VDS/VPS.
On the other hand, the disadvantages of using a Raspberry Pi include its vulnerability to abrupt power outages and a lack of WOL. In such cases, an old computer with 4GB of RAM can come in handy for backup purposes.
Raspberry Pi Hosting vs. Basic VPS
Reliability and Performance:
When comparing hosting a Raspberry Pi at home versus using a hosted solution, reliability and performance are critical factors.
Raspberry Pi Hosting at Home: While it may seem cost-effective initially, it introduces potential points of failure such as power outages, internet connectivity issues, and hardware malfunctions. Additionally, the Raspberry Pi's limited resources may struggle to handle multiple static sites efficiently, especially if other resource-intensive applications are running concurrently.
Hosted Raspberry Pi vs. Basic VPS: Opting for a hosted Raspberry Pi from a provider offers several advantages. Providers typically offer redundant power, network connectivity, and professional hardware maintenance, minimizing the risk of downtime. However, it's essential to choose a reputable provider with a proven track record of reliability.
Cost:
Initial Investment: Hosting a Raspberry Pi at home may seem more cost-effective initially, but when factoring in the cost of hardware, power consumption, and internet connectivity, the long-term expenses can add up.
Hosted Solution: While a hosted Raspberry Pi may have an upfront cost, it eliminates the need for hardware maintenance and provides predictable monthly expenses. Additionally, many providers offer scalable solutions, allowing you to adjust resources as your needs evolve.
Longevity:
Raspberry Pi at Home: MicroSD cards, which are commonly used for Raspberry Pi storage, have limited read/write cycles and are susceptible to failure over time. While proper maintenance and backups can mitigate this risk, it's essential to consider the longevity of your setup.
Hosted Solution: Hosted solutions typically use more robust storage options such as SSDs, reducing the risk of data loss due to hardware failure. Additionally, reputable providers often implement redundancy and backup solutions to ensure data integrity.
Recommendation:
Considering your requirement for hosting multiple static sites and the need for reliability and longevity, I recommend opting for a hosted solution, such as a basic VPS. While the initial cost may be higher compared to hosting a Raspberry Pi at home, the peace of mind and long-term stability it provides outweigh the potential savings. Be sure to choose a provider with a solid reputation for reliability and scalability to accommodate your future growth.