Is my server really dedicated?

[parstech]

I've newly purchased a Windows dedicated server (it's not hosted on JAGUARPC). How can I make sure that my server is a dedicated and it's not a VPS?

[Ron]

You'll have to trust your hosting providor?
Interesting question though.

[JPC-NickO]

Hi,

Actually, it's quite easy to determine as the device drivers the Virtualization product provider are unique to the product.

Just look in the device manager as if I recall correctly the virtual network card drivers will give the show away.

[Ron]

Couldn't those be concealed by name by a host who wanted to decieve?

[JPC-NickO]

For someone that is experienced in reverse engineering it would be possible.

I'd almost guarantee that most hosting providers don't have people that can do that sitting around so they can shave a few extra bucks a month.

[thisisit3]

Here is an easy way to find out: run a benchmark!

By running one of the widely available hardware benchmark programs, you can easily figure out if you have a real dedicated server or a virtual one.

First, you'll notice the results aren't consistent with real hardware and chances are you'll bring the whole hardware node which runs your VPS to its knees! (if it runs in shared resource mode).

[Gwaihir]

chances are you'll bring the whole hardware node which runs your VPS to its knees! (if it runs in shared resource mode).

Lol.. so you're saying overstress your own server as hard as you can. If it is dedicated, you're not bothering anyone. If it's a VPS, they'll have no choice but to shut you down and give away that it wasn't a real dedicated server?

[thisisit3]

thats correct, you'll probably get an email saying that your server is having troubles or something silly like that. This requires the virtual server to be in shared resource mode.

running a benchmark is the best way, something that will bring the whole system to its knees, especially when doing a harddrive test.