A virtual host service is a web hosting technique where a single virtual server is configured to run multiple applications/websites. The term host often refers to the physical machine, whereas the term virtual server refers to the virtual machine that is run on the physical machine[1]. This concept was developed in the late 1990s and quickly became an effective tool for managing and maintaining websites to maximize resource utilization.

There are a few different ways to configure virtual hosting, including IP-based hosting, name-based hosting and port-based virtual hosting. IP based hosting is the simplest method where different unique IP addresses are used to host different websites. Name-based hosting is the most common way used globally. In contrast to IP-based hosting, this method allows one IP address to make connection with multiple websites using multiple hostnames. The less common method is port-based virtual hosting. This method allow the websites are accessed through different ports such as 8080 or 8081[2].

Benefits of Virtual Hosting

One of the benefits of virtual hosting is that it is cost-efficient. Multiple virtual servers can live in a single physical host, thus reduces hardware investment cost. This technique also helps to reduce operational cost by reducing physical footprint and the need for maintenance system for data center. Another advantage of virtual virtual hosting is that it offers scalability and flexibility by allowing upgrade and adjustment of resources without the need for additional physical machine. Virtual environment is able to support an increase in capacity for a single virtual machine (vertical scaling) as well as an increase in number instances of virtual servers (horizontal scaling). Other benefits of virtual host service are that it enhances web security and customization of the server configuration. Users have access to administrative tasks and are able to install software or customize their websites. Each virtual machine lives in its own environments, preventing viruses or other security thread from spreading into other servers or to the physical machine[3].

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