Cloudways
Cloudways is a managed cloud hosting platform that runs sites and applications on providers such as DigitalOcean, AWS and Google Cloud without requiring server administration.
Overview
Overview
Cloudways is a managed hosting layer on top of established cloud providers, aimed at people who want cloud infrastructure without server administration.
What it does
It provisions and manages servers and applications, and handles backups, staging environments, caching, SSL certificates and monitoring from one panel.
Who it may suit
Agencies and site owners outgrowing shared hosting who do not want to run their own infrastructure.
Limitations
- More expensive than entry-level shared hosting
- Less low-level control than an unmanaged server
- Email hosting is not included by default
Buying considerations
Costs depend on the underlying provider, server size and add-ons. Confirm current pricing, included support and migration terms on the official site.
Best for
Agencies, developers and site owners who want cloud hosting performance without maintaining servers themselves.
Freelancers, agencies and businesses running WordPress or other applications who want managed infrastructure.
Helps with: Deploying and managing servers and applications, with backups, staging, caching and SSL handled through one control panel.
Not ideal for
It will not remove the need to maintain your own applications, plugins and content, and it is not a website builder.
Pros
- Choice of underlying cloud providers
- Managed updates, backups, staging and SSL
- Built-in caching and performance tooling
- Scales server resources as traffic grows
Cons
- Costs more than basic shared hosting
- Some server-level control is abstracted away
- Email hosting is a separate add-on
Pricing
Pricing and plan availability change over time. Check current pricing and availability on the provider's site.
Evidence & trust
Rated A under the HOS editorial standard. Ratings reflect independence, transparency, and track record - never popularity. Read our research standards.
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