CGI Scripting
Web Hosting
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Web Hosting
I have been asked over and over again, what should I consider when choosing a web hosting provider?
- The Basics: The foundation of web hosting includes disk space, monthly traffic (bandwidth) and number of email
addresses. For most reading this page, the starter or basic package should suffice. With that said, however, if you
plan to offer streaming video, pictures, audio and other media that require large amounts of space, then I would
recommend upgrading your web hosting account. If unsure which web hosting package is best, choose a web host that allows you to switch between
packages without a fee and start with the basic account.
- Bells and Whistles: Under this category, I would include options like blogs, chat rooms, streaming video, etc. These
‘extras’ are usually standard in the more expensive packages and web hosting companies may encourage you to pay more for features that you
may never use. Determine which 'extras' are a must and see if you may add them to a basic account.
- Uptime: What is the point to have the best web site if it is online half the time. Look for web hosting companies that
guarantee a certain level of uptime. The more reliable and respected web hosts advertise a 99.99% recorded uptime.
- Customer support: Many of the smaller web hosting companies will offer an online FAQs page or a place for electronic manual posts.
Although this will solve the simple and basic questions, it is often difficult to get a timely response when the answer
can not be obtained from their “pre-asked” question list. Look for a company that offers live phone and
email support. These days, many of the larger, more reliable web hosts will boast 24/7 toll-free technical support, a
live-chat line and prompt e-mail service. And don’t be shy to call them on it. I suggest testing their avenues of
support during a normal business day and again on a weekend.
- Speed: Check out how fast it takes to call up your site. Check out DNSstuff.com
Like most things in life, you get what you pay for.
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