Shared server

What is a 'shared server'?
A shared server is a server which provides service for many different Web sites.

What's so different from a 'shared server' and a 'dedicated server'?
A shared server hosts many sites at a time, depending on the limit placed by the hosting company. However, aside from that, you can purchase a dedicated server, or a server where you control all of its functions. These functions you can control include how many sites it hosts, how it operates, and what programs/services it operates.

Which one is for me; a shared server or a dedicated server?
For smaller sites that require hardly any PHP loading time, a shared server would be for you. On the other hand, sites with lengthy coding and heavy applications could be required to purchase a dedicated server or a server that is specially designed for your site.

What can I get on Dreamhost?
Basically, by signing up for Dreamhost, you are getting placed on one of thousands of Dreamhost servers, chosen randomly. You have no choice on what server you get, it just depends on what server is available with space at that time. You can, however, request a server move when you finish signing up your site.