Quick answer: Next.js production on a VPS = next build + next start (or Docker) behind Caddy/Traefik with SSL – full control, fixed cost, servers in Germany.
Related
VPS & root servers: Order VPS in Germany · NexoraHost · nexorahost.com (Maincubes FRA01 Frankfurt · Ryzen · NVMe · GDPR)
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Next.js on VPS or Vercel?
Vercel: zero-ops, costlier at scale. VPS: fixed cost, full control, GDPR in DE. Mid traffic often cheaper on VPS.
Which Node stack?
next build && next start behind Caddy/Traefik, or standalone output in Docker. PM2 for restarts without Docker.
How much RAM for Next.js?
Small apps: 1–2 GB. With image optimization + API: 2–4 GB. Budget DB separately.
SSR and caching?
Use ISR/cache headers. Static assets via CDN (Cloudflare). Keep origin in Frankfurt.
Secure env secrets?
Never commit .env.production. With Docker: env_file. Rotate on leaks.