Websites need web hosting to be built. Selecting the right web host and plan is not an easy task. Not every host is made equal, and you may want to ensure you get everything you need.
This guide will help ensure you choose the right web hosting service. We’ve broken down our recommendations into five categories: shared, VPS, and dedicated servers.
Each category has pros and cons, so we recommend starting with one type before moving on to the next if you don’t have experience with them yet.
Types of hosting
Shared Web Hosting Service
Shared web hosting services are Internet hosting services where multiple customers share the same hardware. The customer’s data and resources are stored on this single server, but each customer has private control.
Shared web hosting services are usually inexpensive, but they can lack advanced features such as email support or security tools.
Shared hosting typically offers unlimited disk space, bandwidth, and email accounts. However, you won’t be able to install applications like WordPress, Joomla, Drupal, or Magento.
Reseller Web Hosting
A reseller is a company that sells services to other companies, usually on a per-unit basis. The term “reseller” may also be used for the customer who purchases these services from the reseller. A reseller can sell any service or product as long as it has been approved by the original manufacturer and meets its quality standards.
Resellers offer more than just web hosting; they provide additional services like domain registration, website maintenance, and technical support. Resellers may charge lower prices than traditional web hosts because they do not have to invest in expensive infrastructure.
VPS Web Hosting
Virtual Private Servers (VPS) are virtual servers hosted on a physical server. This means that all the resources available to the server are allocated to the specific account. Unlike shared hosting, which allows multiple users to use the same server, a virtual private server (VPS) provides each user with their server.
The main advantage of using a VPS is that you get full root access to the server, allowing you to customize it according to your needs. You can use software like cPanel to manage your files and folders.
If you want a good balance between affordability and flexibility, VPS hosting is the way to go.
Managed Hosting Service
A managed hosting service is similar to a VPS, except that the provider takes care of most of the tasks required to maintain the server. They handle weekly backups, updates, and security patches. Managed hosting services are usually more expensive than VPSs, but they provide peace of mind knowing that their team is maintaining your site properly.
The user has their Web server but is limited in managing it. They are allowed to manage their files via FTP or other remote file management tools.
The user is prevented from having full control of the server so that the provider can ensure the quality of service by preventing the user from modifying the server. Typically, the user doesn’t own the server. The server is rented to the client.
Dedicated Web Hosting
A dedicated web hosting service is a form of Internet hosting that provides only one resource at a time. Dedicated web hosting is ideal for sites that require lots of processing power or memory. It is also useful when you need complete control over your server.
You can set up your custom operating system on a dedicated server, including Linux, Windows, or Unix. If you want to run an application that requires a lot of RAM, you can purchase extra RAM modules and add them to your server.
Dedicated servers are expensive, so if you’re looking for a cheap solution, consider a shared hosting packages instead.
Cloud Hosting
Cloud computing refers to delivering computer services (such as email) as a service rather than providing them on physical servers owned by the customer. It allows customers to pay only when they use the service, not upfront.
There are many different types of cloud hosting plans. Some are based on virtualization technology, while others are based on storage space.
In addition to providing a platform for storing data, some cloud providers allow you to host applications. For example, Amazon’s EC2 service lets you rent out a virtual machine with its operating system.
10 things you need to keep in mind when choosing the best web hosting service
Uptime
Uptime is important because downtime will cost you money. A good web hosting service should be able to guarantee 99.9% uptime. If you have a website that receives a large amount of traffic, you’ll want to choose a reliable web hosting service that offers guaranteed uptime.
Available Storage
Depending on your website’s purpose, you will need a lot or a little space for the files you upload. Whatever your situation, hiring the best service best fits your needs is always recommended.
Make sure that the web host you choose has enough space for you to run your site without running out of memory. If you need less storage, choose smaller plans and save money that could be spent on extra space.
But if your web hosting service doesn’t have any limits on storage space, you don’t need to worry about that factor.
Monthly Traffic
Some web hosting companies have a monthly traffic limit for their websites. After a certain number of visits, the server will start charging extra fees. Or it might stop displaying your website on its website.
So if you expect your website to receive a high volume of visitors each month, ensure that the web hosting service you choose can handle this level of traffic. You may want to look into a package with additional bandwidth and/or disk space.
Data Security
Data security is another important factor in selecting a web hosting provider. Make sure that your information is safe from hackers. The most common way hackers get access to your personal information is through email accounts.
If you share your login credentials with other people, then they can gain access to your account. So make sure your web hosting company uses strong passwords and two-factor authentication (2FA).
Customer Support
Customer support is also an important consideration. It’s not just about whether the customer service team responds quickly to emails; it’s also about how helpful they are.
If you ever have problems with your web hosting service, you should know that you can contact them anytime. They should respond within 24 hours.
Before signing up with a service provider, check out how their support works and see which channels they offer for you to contact them and ask for help.
Payment Methods
Finding a web hosting service that accepts all major credit cards is important. Some services accept PayPal payments, while others require you to pay by bank transfer.
Content Management System
Look for a service that provides its own intuitive content management system (CMS) or easy installation of an open source CMS, such as WordPress, so you don’t have to hire someone else to install it. You will use these platforms every day when interacting with your website. So consider this, especially if you intend to create content frequently.
Do A Free Trial
Many web hosting providers offer free trial periods for their users to get to know them and see if they have everything they need.
During this period, you should find out whether it’s worthwhile to hire the service you’re considering and figure out any potential obstacles you hadn’t considered before putting your idea into action.
If the service provider doesn’t meet your expectations, you can cancel without any charge.
Discover Extra Benefits
You should know any extras that come with the web hosting service you select. For example, some include discounts on domain names, SSL certificates, and more.
Some extra features to consider include:
• Domain name registration
• Email forwarding
• Website builder tools
• FTP access
• SSL certificate
• Cloudflare CDN
• Dedicated IP address
