How to Deploy Next.js to a VPS: The Ultimate UK Guide for 2025

Deploying Next.js to a VPS gives you full control, speed, and SEO advantages. This guide covers every step, with advanced schema, actionable UK-specific tips, and expert troubleshooting.

1. Prepare Your Server

• Choose a UK-based VPS provider (e.g., Fasthosts, Krystal, OVH UK) for local speed and support.

• Update and secure your Ubuntu server:

  sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y
  sudo apt install build-essential curl
  

• Set up a non-root user and SSH keys for secure access.

2. Deploy Your Next.js App

• Clone your repo and install dependencies:

  git clone <your-repo-url>
  cd <project>
  npm install
  npm run build
  

• Set environment variables for production (use .env.production).

3. Use PM2 for Process Management

• Install PM2 globally:

  npm install -g pm2
  pm2 start npm --name "nextjs-app" -- start
  pm2 startup
  pm2 save
  

• Monitor and restart on failure: pm2 logs, pm2 status.

4. Configure nginx as a Reverse Proxy

• Install nginx: sudo apt install nginx

• Example config:

  server {
      listen 80;
      server_name yourdomain.com;
  
      location / {
          proxy_pass http://localhost:3000;
          proxy_set_header Host $host;
          proxy_set_header X-Real-IP $remote_addr;
          proxy_set_header X-Forwarded-For $proxy_add_x_forwarded_for;
          proxy_set_header X-Forwarded-Proto $scheme;
      }
  }
  

• Test and reload: sudo nginx -t && sudo systemctl reload nginx

5. Secure Your Deployment

• Set up SSL with Let's Encrypt:

  sudo apt install certbot python3-certbot-nginx
  sudo certbot --nginx -d yourdomain.com
  

• Use strong passwords, SSH keys, and regular updates.

• Monitor with tools like UptimeRobot and fail2ban.

6. Advanced Schema & Local SEO

• Add LocalBusiness JSON-LD schema to homepage/contact:

  {
    "@context": "https://schema.org",
    "@type": "LocalBusiness",
    "name": "Kreative Kommit",
    "address": {
      "@type": "PostalAddress",
      "streetAddress": "123 High Street",
      "addressLocality": "Liverpool",
      "postalCode": "L1 2AB",
      "addressCountry": "GB"
    },
    "telephone": "+44 1234 567890",
    "url": "https://kreativekommit.com/"
  }
  

• Optimise Google Business Profile and encourage reviews with city/service keywords.

• Use internal links to related guides and service pages.

7. Case Study: Liverpool Agency Success

A Liverpool agency switched to a UK VPS, implemented schema, and optimised GBP. Results: 30% more local traffic, 20% faster load times, and increased client enquiries.

8. FAQs

Q: Can I deploy Next.js with Docker?
A: Yes, use a Dockerfile and docker-compose for containerised deployments.

Q: How do I automate deployments?
A: Use GitHub Actions or GitLab CI/CD to build and deploy on push.

Q: What if my app crashes?
A: PM2 restarts automatically; check logs for errors and optimise memory usage.

9. Troubleshooting & Best Practices

• Use environment variables for secrets.
• Automate backups and monitor server health.
• Test performance with Lighthouse and WebPageTest.
• Stay GDPR compliant for UK users.

10. Action Steps

• Audit your server security and SEO signals.
• Add schema and optimise GBP.
• Monitor, refine, and update monthly.

---

Ready to deploy? Follow these steps and reach out for expert help if needed!