10 Factors to consider when choosing a Hosting Provider
Quality and affordable website hosting services can be realised by taking into consideration the following factors.
1. Web Space – This is the storage space available and must meet the customer's requirements.
2. Bandwidth – Refers to the maximum amount of monthly data traffic that you can transfer. Web hosting providers are now very generous with bandwidth these days.
3. Availability - This is the time the server is available for use by clients. Aim for +99.9% uptime in the selection of a web hosting provider. In these modern days most web hosting companies are providing reliable and quality service through the installlation of back-up or stand-by servers.
4. Support – Check for the back-up support offered by the hosting provider. The back-up support can be done through online chats, e-mails, knowleddge base data, support desks and tickets. Some web hosting companies are now offering 24/7 support to their clients.
5. Site Content Management - The availability of a control panel and billing management system. The following web hosting control software is used to manage websites:
cPanel
Direct Admin,
ehcp,
Domain Technologie control,
Gnupanel,
H-sphere,
ISP Config,
LxAdmin,
Plesk,
Usermin,
Webmin.
All the software above is compatible with Linus whereas Windows can only use H-sphere, Plesk, Usermin and Webmin.
6. Commercial Considerations - shopping carts integration and secure server facilities (SSL).
7. Webmail – Availability of internet based mail and features such as Auto Responders, Spam control, POP3 and Mail forwarding.
8. Software – The operating system, packages, software and scripts must fulfill your needs.
Examples of what to look for are choosing bewtween Linus or Windows based hosting, databases such as MySQL, FTP, PHP, Perl, Fantastico De Luxe etc. It is important to check for any restrictions or limitations on the type of files you can download or upload
9. Hardware - Server hardware specifications and maintenance must be checked and verified.
10. Price - Finally you must pay for the right and low price for the right web hosting plan.
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