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BotHarbor vs. self-hosting on a VPS
A VPS gives you a whole machine. That's maximum control — and maximum responsibility.
| Criterion | BotHarbor | Your own VPS |
|---|---|---|
| Setup | Create, paste token, press Deploy | Install OS updates, runtime, process manager, firewall |
| Testing before going live | Built-in simulated server | Bring your own test server |
| Restarts after crashes | Automatic, with back-off | You configure it (e.g. a process manager) |
| Logs & metrics | In the dashboard, secrets redacted | You set them up |
| Custom code & system access | Custom code in gated beta; no root access | Full root access, anything goes |
| Cost model | Per-plan monthly price, clear limits | Server rental plus your time |
When to choose which
BotHarbor
- You want a bot online quickly without server administration.
- You value a safe place to test and beginner-friendly tooling.
Your own VPS
- You need full control of the machine, databases or unusual dependencies.
- You're comfortable maintaining and securing a server.