What KVM is
KVM (Kernel-based Virtual Machine) is the virtualisation built into the Linux kernel. It splits one physical server into virtual machines, each with its own kernel, operating system and memory.
What a KVM VPS gives you
A KVM VPS is one of those virtual machines: a server of your own, on a share of a physical one.
- Your own operating system and kernel control, with full root access.
- Linux (Ubuntu 24.04 LTS, Debian 12, AlmaLinux 9, Rocky Linux 9, Arch Linux or Alpine Linux), Windows Server 2022, or your own ISO.
- Snapshots, VPC and IPv6, on NVMe Gen4 storage.
- A browser VNC console, a 10 Gbps network and L3/L4/L7 DDoS protection.
KVM vs a normal (container) VPS
Some hosts sell container VPS, such as OpenVZ or LXC, where every server shares the host’s Linux kernel. On KVM each server runs its own kernel.
| Feature | KVM VPS | Container VPS |
|---|---|---|
| Kernel | Its own | Shared with the host |
| Operating system | Linux, Windows or your own ISO | Linux only |
| Kernel modules | Load your own | Only what the host loads |
| Docker | Runs as on any server | Only if the host allows it |
KVM VPS or VDS?
A KVM VPS shares burstable cores, for web apps, APIs, microservices and staging, from ₹581 per 30 days. A VDS pins every core to you, for databases and heavy compute, from ₹1,241. Compare VPS, VDS and bare metal.
What runs on a KVM VPS
- Web apps, APIs, microservices and staging servers.
- One-click apps: WordPress, Docker with Portainer, Node.js and Bun, GitLab CE, Next.js, Ghost and Supabase. See app hosting.
KVM VPS price in India
A HostUpIndia KVM VPS starts at ₹581 per 30 days for 2 vCPU, 4 GB of memory, 20 GB of NVMe and 5 TB of transfer, billed by the hour. Prices exclude 18% GST.