Edison.ovh
From zero to a fully operational web hosting business — VPS, DirectAdmin, FOSSBilling, custom nameservers and automated account provisioning
The Challenge
The client wanted to launch their own web hosting company — not as a reseller of a large platform, but as a fully independent provider with their own infrastructure, their own brand identity, and complete control over clients, pricing, and services.
That sounds straightforward, but behind a professional web hosting business lies a complex technical infrastructure. You do not just need a server — you need a VPS, a control panel for server management, a client portal for billing and support, custom branded nameservers, SSL certificates, automated account provisioning, and secure DNS configuration.
The client had the vision but not the technical knowledge to set all of this up themselves. The brief was clear: build a fully functional hosting infrastructure that is immediately ready for commercial use, scalable, and requires as little manual work as possible from the client.
The Solution
VPS server set up and configured
A powerful VPS server provisioned as the foundation of the hosting infrastructure. Includes OS hardening, firewall configuration (CSF/LFD), fail2ban, automatic security updates, and optimal server performance for shared hosting environments.
DirectAdmin control panel installed
DirectAdmin installed and fully configured as the hosting control panel. The client can create hosting accounts, manage email accounts, configure databases, manage DNS zones, and roll out SSL certificates — all from one clean, efficient panel.
FOSSBilling client portal & billing automation
FOSSBilling installed as the open-source client portal and billing system. Clients can order a hosting package, pay, view invoices, and create support tickets via the portal. FOSSBilling is connected to DirectAdmin via API so accounts are automatically created after payment — no manual work required.
Custom nameservers created
Custom nameservers created (ns1.edison.ovh and ns2.edison.ovh) with correct glue records at the domain registrar. Clients see the brand name in their DNS settings instead of a third-party provider — a requirement for any serious web hosting business.
Hosting packages and automatic provisioning
Multiple hosting packages configured in FOSSBilling with corresponding server resource limits in DirectAdmin. Once a client orders and pays, a DirectAdmin account is automatically created with the correct package. No manual intervention needed.
SSL, DNS and email infrastructure
Let's Encrypt SSL certificates configured for the control panel and all client domains. Correct SPF, DKIM and DMARC records set up for email deliverability. DNS zones properly configured so the entire hosting stack runs reliably and securely.
Technology & Implementation
The entire infrastructure is built on battle-tested open-source and proven commercial technology — a stack that large hosting companies use, now made accessible to a smaller independent provider.
Technologies & Tools Used
Results
Fully operational web hosting business built from a blank VPS
Clients can independently order a package, pay, and log in to their hosting account — fully automated
Custom nameservers live: clients see the brand name 'edison' in their DNS settings
Zero licensing costs for the client portal thanks to FOSSBilling (open source)
Server security in order: firewall, fail2ban, automatic SSL and email authentication
Scalable infrastructure: easily expand with additional servers or packages as the client base grows
Why this stack works for a new hosting business
The combination of DirectAdmin + FOSSBilling is a proven stack in the hosting world. DirectAdmin has a low server footprint and is highly stable, while FOSSBilling as an open-source alternative to WHMCS carries zero monthly licensing fees. Custom nameservers give a professional appearance and complete brand control. The result: a hosting setup that matches large providers in functionality and reliability, at the cost structure of an independent operator.
Want to start your own hosting business or set up server infrastructure?
Whether you want to launch a web hosting company, set up your own VPS, or need a client portal — I'll build it for you. Let's talk.