Web Hosting Buying Guide

Web hosting services allow businesses or individuals to set up and run their own websites, without the need to buy and maintain expensive additional computer programs and equipment. Web hosts provide the use of space on a server, programmes to design websites and also Internet connectivity. They can also provide a data storage service.

Web hosting can cover a wide range of different needs, from basic pages and low storage space for personal websites, to complex sites for businesses that include database support and additional development platforms such as Java and SSL. This additional software will allow businesses to install applications such as chat forums and online procurement systems.

There are many web hosting companies available, and the price and quality of their services varies considerably. Therefore it is important for you to look at a number of factors before choosing a service, to ensure you get the best deal you can.

Domain Name – You need to sort this out before you sign up to a web-hosting package. Some hosting companies will include domain name registration as part of their services, but you can register your domain name yourself. This could save you money, but more importantly will mean you are in control of your domain name and will be able to take it with you if you decide to change web hosts in the future.

Uptime – this is vital if you intend to run a web based business, as uptime is the percentage of time in which your website will be available to view by customers. Factors such as general service maintenance and network downtime can affect this and you should be looking for at least 97% guaranteed uptime from any web hosting service (some companies may say 99% uptime but do not guarantee it).

Technical Support – most web hosts will provide some kind of technical support, usually through an ow hosts that provide 24hr technical support, and also companies that guarantee a quick response to your queries, or a telephone support service.

Storage Space – You will need to decide how much storage space you need for your website, as many companies charge on a page/space bases. Most companies offer low monthly hosting fees on simple web pages for both business and personal use up to around 10GB.

CGI (Common Gateway Interface) Programs – If you are running an advanced website you will need check you have a complete CGI package so that you can run essential programmes such as Perl, Java, or Visual Basic.

SSL – If you are running a online business then you will need a web host package that includes SSL so that you can accept credit cards payments securely through your website. Some business hosting packages look like a good deal on the surface, but have hidden costs such an additionally monthly charge for SSL features.

And last but not the least, don’t forget to evaluate the reputation and reliability of the company in the web hosting industry - because scams happen a lot. If you are not sure, read some web hosting reviews to find the host.