7 Simple Steps For Choosing A Great Web Host
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Internet Business -> subcategory Web Hosting.
7 Easy Steps to Choosing the Perfect Web Host
Choosing a web host can feel overwhelming with thousands of options available today. Whether you're selecting your first host or seeking an upgrade, following these seven essential steps will help you make the right choice.
1. Choose the Right Platform
The initial step is to decide on the server platform: Unix/Linux or Windows. Your website's technologies will determine this choice. A site developed with Microsoft tools (like ASP or VB) should use Windows servers, while sites with open-source technologies (such as PHP, Perl, or Python) are best suited for Linux systems.
2. Identify Necessary Features
After selecting a platform, pinpoint the features you need. Web hosts offer extensive features, so it's crucial to review these carefully. Key features to consider include:
- Disk Space
- Bandwidth
- Backups
- Uptime
- Money-Back Guarantee
- Domains Allowed
- Databases (type and number)
- Support for CGI, PHP, Perl, Python, SSI
- Cron Jobs
- Email Accounts
Take your time to ensure your chosen host meets all your requirements.
3. Consider Cost
While cost is important, it shouldn't be the sole factor. Web hosting costs encompass more than just monthly fees. Consider the total cost of ownership (TCO), including downtime losses, extra charges for bandwidth, setup fees, and any additional features. Some hosts offer better prices for annual payments, while others provide competitive monthly rates.
4. Evaluate Customer Service
Reliable customer service is crucial. You need 24/7/365 support for continuous website operation. Don’t just take their word for it?"test their service via phone, email, and live chat at different times to ensure consistency.
5. Review Support Resources
A comprehensive knowledge base is invaluable and reflects the level of support you can expect. Spend some time exploring it to see how thoroughly questions are addressed and whether solutions are practical rather than generic responses.
6. Check Host Longevity
Investigate the web host's domain creation date. Newer hosts (less than a year old) pose a higher risk of going out of business. Considering that over 95% of new hosts close within a year, it's essential to choose one with a proven track record.
7. Verify Uptime Guarantees
No web host can promise 100% uptime due to necessary rebooting for updates. A 99.9% uptime guarantee is standard, but pay attention to the terms. Preferably, look for hosts offering a full month of free hosting if they miss this guarantee; smaller refunds for downtime usually aren’t substantial.
By following these seven steps, you can confidently select a web host that meets your needs. Conducting thorough research now can prevent future problems and ensure a smooth hosting experience.
You can find the original non-AI version of this article here: 7 Simple Steps For Choosing A Great Web Host.
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