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Root Access: Do you really need it?
Web hosting plans can be confusing for a new webmaster. One of the questions on a lot of minds is "Do I need a hosting plan that offers root access?". The answer depends almost entirely on the type of hosting plan you need.
What is root access?
Root access gives the webmaster the ability to view and change everything on the server, including all directories, files, and even the operating system itself!
In effect, a hosting plan with root access gives you the ability to make changes that affect your website and every other website hosted on that server. This makes root access very dangerous on a shared web hosting server! For this reason, most hosting providers don't allow root access at all on shared hosting plans.
Bottom line: If you're going to be using a shared hosting plan, you don't need root access at all.
When would I need root access?
If you plan to host your website on an unmanaged dedicated server, root access is a must. Since you'll be responsible for installing your website and scripts, doing backups, and maintaining the system, you'll have to have root access. All unmanaged dedicated server hosting plans include root access.
If you're looking for a managed dedicated server, you can probably get by without root access, but I still recommend asking for it just in case you do find yourself needing it later.
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