Table of Contents
If you’re evaluating Plesk as your control-panel for VPS or dedicated servers, you’ll encounter a few different editions and license types. Knowing which edition fits your needs and how the license type (VPS vs Dedicated) works will save you time (and money). This article covers the three primary Plesk editions and key licensing distinctions, based on Plesk’s official pricing and documentation.
License Type: VPS vs Dedicated
While the major functional differences come via editions (see section 2), you’ll also need to pick the correct license type depending on your server environment:
- VPS License – Meant for installation on a supported virtualised server (e.g., VMware, Xen, Open VZ, Virtuozzo). For KnownHost, this is VPS, NVMe VPS and Cloud servers.
- Dedicated License – For installation on a physical dedicated server. (Though the same edition features apply.)
Note: Features of the edition do not change depending on VPS vs Dedicated. The distinction is about the environment, not the functionality.
If you’re unsure which environment or license type is best for your setup, contact KnownHost Sales. They can help determine the right edition, license type, and any applicable add-ons to match your hosting goals.
Plesk Editions: Web Admin | Web Pro | Web Host
Plesk sells three main editions (at least in the current model) each aimed at different user-types.
| Feature Category | Web Admin Edition | Web Pro Edition | Web Host Edition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical target user | Web/IT admin managing their own sites or business server (not full reseller) | Web developer / agency managing sites for customers (“Web Professionals”) | Hosting business or agency with reseller capabilities and many domains |
| Domain/quota limit | Up to 10 domains | Up to 30 domains | Unlimited domains |
| Reseller management features | Not included (no reseller accounts) | Not included (reseller management is missing) | Included – full reseller/tenant support (accounts, subscriptions, resellers) |
| Subscription/Account/Customer management | None | Yes. Full subscription/customer management and “Service Provider” view enabled | Yes. Same as Pro, plus resellers and multi‑tenant focus |
| WordPress Toolkit (WPT) | Limited version (often “SE” or light) | Full WordPress Toolkit included | Full WordPress Toolkit included |
| Support for PostgreSQL / MSSQL / developer pack features | Not Included | Included developer features (PostgreSQL, MSSQL, etc) | Included developer features (same as Pro edition) |
| Interface / View Mode | Power‑User view only (i.e., single server/site admin) | Both Power‑User view + Service‑Provider view (for multi‑tenant/hosting) | Both Power‑User + Service‑Provider view (hosting style) |
| Security and core features | All editions include core security stack (Let’s Encrypt, ModSecurity basic) | Same core security plus extended features available via add‑ons/extensions | Same as above, with full host‑level control and reseller/tenant isolation capabilities |
| Ideal scenario for use | One server, limited number of domains, you manage everything | Agency/developer managing many sites (up to ~30), need somewhat multi‑client support | Hosting company or you want to resell, manage unlimited domains, create other accounts/resellers |
Important Functional Notes:
- The “Service Provider” and “Custom View/Restricted Mode” features are only available in Web Pro and Web Host editions.
- Some advanced modules (e.g., full WP Toolkit, developer pack, PostgreSQL/MSSQL support) are either limited or missing in the lower editions.
Which Edition Should You Choose?
Here’s how to pick:
- Small business / single‐server with limited domains → Go with Web Admin. If you’re just managing up to ~10 domains and don’t need hosting business features, this fits.
- Developer / agency / building multiple client sites → Choose Web Pro. You’ll get more flexibility (30 domains, subscriptions, fuller toolkit).
- Hosting provider / multi-tenant / reseller model → Opt for Web Host. Unlimited domains + full host/reseller management capabilities.
- Check server environment → Choose VPS vs Dedicated license based on whether your server is virtual or physical.
- Plan for scale → If you expect growth (more domains, resellers, heavy WordPress usage), better to pick the higher edition or make sure you can upgrade. Plesk supports upgrades between editions.
To recap:
- Edition = determines feature set (domains allowed, reseller features, toolkit level)
- License type (VPS vs Dedicated) = determines environment suitability
- Choose the combination that aligns with your usage: number of domains + management model + infrastructure
7. FAQ
Q: Can I install a Web Admin Edition on a dedicated server?
A: Yes, but you’ll be limited to the Web Admin feature set. KnownHost Sales can clarify if this is cost-effective for your server.
Q: If I outgrow Web Admin, can I move to Web Pro?
A: Yes. Plesk supports upgrades. KnownHost Sales can assist in planning a seamless transition.
Q: Are the edition features fixed forever?
A: Editions are stable, but modules and add-ons can change. Sales can explain current options.
Q: Do edition limits apply per server or per license key?
A: Limits apply per license.
