When you finally decide to pursue a web presence for your business- where do you start? With so many service providers and variable elements, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and throw in the towel before you even start. But, there’s a few markers you can utilize in your decision making process.
Shared Servers versus Dedicated Web Hosting: Do your needs make it possible for you to share a server with other users, or do you need the control of a dedicated server? This question can be answered by both the amount of traffic your site has and your level of technological prowess. As your bandwidth needs increase, you may see a jump in cost as you surpass your bandwidth allocation on a shared server. Having a dedicated server eliminates this restriction and essentially gives you free reign on bandwidth- depending on hardware. But, having a dedicated server also tests your technical knowledge and wouldn’t be recommended for new users. With shared server service, the web hosting provider provides for your software and management needs, making the technical decisions that keep you running. Having the total control that comes with a dedicated server could be catastrophic if you don’t have the technical skills. There are hosting companies that could upgrade you to a dedicated server and even offer technical support. Overall, it may be best to start with a webhosting company that provides you with a plan- including limited bandwidth, technical support, and server management needs- and eventually upgrade as your bandwidth needs increase- if they do.
Provider Service: All websites are not the same and each needs different software, applications, and traffic management. Begin by assessing the web hosting provider ability to deal with complicated applications, software compatibility, and even amplified traffic scenarios. Minimizing your server downtime is key. Do they provide you with a management portal in which you can manage content, or must you pay a fee for them to make any content changes- a service which may also delay content changes depending on how many clients they have. Remember that many websites tend to grow with time- as your business grows. So, it is important to get a service that can accommodate your growth.
Provider Credibility: A Web Hosting Provider’s website is the best guide to what you’re getting. How transparent is the information on the site? Is it easy to find answers to questions you have?
FAQ and contact details reflect the professionalism of the provider, so be mindful of how they present their services. Flashy sites aren’t necessarily the best- all that glitters isn’t gold. What matters is the nuts and bolts of the services they can provide you. As a consumer, be wary of big claims. Many service providers tout 99% server uptime. But, with shared servers and load balancing, this is often harder to provide than claim- so beware your expectations. Having a money back guarantee can be the stamp of a reliable company. Just make sure to read the fine print. The same goes for pricing. Low prices are great, but often they’ll lock you into a 3 year contract with no getting out. Finally, regardless of what their website says, it’s always wise to call the company and speak with a rep. Verify the information on the website and ask any more probing questions that might shed light on what you are getting.
Finding a web hosting provider doesn’t have to be scary. Evaluating server space and bandwidth, provider knowledge and support, and pricing will help you make the right decision for you.