Block Storage, Cloud Computing & Database Servers

web servers on a rack

Sometimes you need extra resources for your website, or to run complex computations. This is where hosting accounts for block storage, cloud computing and databases can add value to your web hosting stack.

  • Block Storage: This type of hosting account is ideal for storing static files. For example, you may host large files for download. Or, you might host your images and videos on these types of servers, to free up resources on your website.
  • Cloud Computing: This type of hosting account is good for running complex computations. Generally, you can use this sort of account for things like 3D rendering, machine learning algorithms, and blockchain purposes. Just keep in mind that you need to check the terms of service before choosing an account. For example, many hosting companies will ban cryptocurrency mining on their servers.
  • Database Servers: This type of hosting account is good for running heavy database queries off-site. Often, these accounts are good for hosting SAAS applications, such as site-search.

Hosting Companies

Try these hosting companies for the aforementioned services.

  1. Linode Block Storage Plan
  2. DigitalOcean Block Storage Plan
  3. Linode Nanode Cloud Computing Plan
  4. DigitalOcean Managed Database Hosting Plan
  5. UpCloud Simple Cloud Computing Plan
  6. UpCloud MaxIOPS Block Storage Plan

Short Block Storage, Cloud Computing & Database Servers Hosting Reviews

If you don’t want to read all of the full-length Block Storage, Cloud Computing & Database Servers hosting reviews, then save yourself some time and scan this list. We’ve listed the hosting companies in priority order, with the most highly reviewed website at the top of the list. You can then either click through to each company website, or choose to read more if something catches your interest.

1. Linode Block Storage

Linode Company
  • It’s very easy to expand server space thanks to how flexible block storage is.
  • Data is backed up so it’s always available even if one server goes down.
  • Linode blocks can be managed independently of each other. Changing them does not require a reboot.
  • Linode uses very fast hard drives.
  • Storage space can be purchased as needed.
  • Because it’s not a standard type of server space, there is a learning curve.
  • May not necessarily be the right option for some needs.
  • Data can be at risk if you don’t have a security expert handling things.

2. DigitalOcean Block Storage

DigitalOcean Logo
  • Data is replicated across multiple servers, so it’s always available.
  • You can easily scale storage as needed.
  • The system encrypts all stored information.
  • The company uses very fast solid state drives to store all data.
  • Price is per GB, so you’re only paying for what you use.
  • You do have to purchase Droplets (what DigitalOcean calls servers) – this is an add-on to their hosting option.
  • No control panel or other easy-to-use configuration system.
  • You will need to do some research into block storage to ensure it’s the right option for you.

3. Linode Nanode

Linode Company
  • Linode Nanode storage can be used with many types of websites, including informational sites, WordPress blogs, and eCommerce sites.
  • Incredibly flexible – add as many Nanodes to your hosting as needed.
  • You only pay for what you actually need rather than pay for a lot of features you never use.
  • This is a higher level of hosting and does require an understanding of how Linode hosting works.
  • While a single Nanode of storage and resources is cheap, most projects need multiple Nanodes. This can quickly add up.
  • These advanced hosting plans are not right for most needs.

4. DigitalOcean Cloud Database

DigitalOcean Logo
  • Easily scalable.
  • Servers back up your data daily.
  • DigitalOcean configures and manages your servers.
  •  Solid state drives provide reliable and fast data retrieval.
  • Backup servers take over if the main server goes down, so your data is always available.
  • You must purchase a hosting plan to use these databases.
  • There is an additional cost for adding managed databases to your cloud.
  • You can easily go over your monthly budget if you’re not careful.

5. UpCloud Cloud Computing

UpCloud
  • Only pay for the resources you need.
  • Flexible plans.
  • 100% uptime.
  • All servers use solid state drives for faster data transfers.
  • Good amount of support documentation available.
  • Not a good option for beginners.
  • Not for basic hosting.
  • Can quickly become costly depending on your needs.

6. UpCloud Block Storage

UpCloud
  • Flexible storage can easily be increased or decreased as needed.
  • Free 3-day trial.
  • You can move your block storage between UpCloud’s cloud servers quickly and easily.
  • Create automatic backups that activate as often as you need.
  • UpCloud supports both Windows and Linux.
  • You do have to have UpCloud cloud server hosting to use MaxIOPS
  • Pricing can quickly increase if you need a large amount of resources.
  • Block storage isn’t useful for every project and is not at all needed for basic web hosting.
  • You will need to have an understanding of how to manage and configure cloud servers and block storage.
  • The free trial is only for three days, which may not be long enough to determine if this is right for you.