Resources: Website Hosting Guide
A few simple steps to finding high quality web hosting services.First things first
Before you do anything else check that your preferred domain name is available and register it!Although this sounds obvious, it's worth mentioning because your entire design will be based around this name. You'll design your logos, optimize your copy and set-up your e-mail accounts with the domain name you want in mind. There are few things more frustrating than completing the design and testing of your website only to find you need to rework your graphics and code because the domain has been purchased by someone else.
Find a hosting provider for your Website
- Massive bandwidth and huge disc space is worth paying for if your website is going to rival Microsoft but may be overkill for your on-line store - at least to begin with.
Choose a provider who offers an option to purchase more bandwidth or disc space as necessary.
- Check out the providers data connection speeds (the speed your site files will be served to viewers).
This is an important point, not least because of the increasing uptake of Broadband. People expect websites to load quickly whatever the content, if your hosting provider is slow in delivering your website to their browser they will go elsewhere.
- Find out where the servers are housed and what security is employed.
Any reputable host service provider will provide information on their Website about their data centre and the type of security that is employed to keep your information secure. Servers should be behind Hardware & software firewalls and the building itself should have controlled access.
- If you have produced a dynamic, database driven website make sure your host provides the necessary databases and access to them.
- Look into the e-mail services that come with the package.
Choose a provider that lets you configure mailboxes and e-mail re-directs manually. If e-mail functions are available as an 'extra' look elsewhere.
- Choose a provider who offers e-mail & telephone support as part of the package - not an optional extra, and check it out.
Before you go with them, contact them by e-mail and ask a couple of questions; if they reply promptly they might live up to their support response claims, if you have to wait a week, go elsewhere!
- Remember, the cheapest option is not always the best option.
As with most things, you often get what you pay for. If you find a dedicated hosting service for two beans and a carrot per year you will probably end up with a casserole - great to eat but not very good at serving websites!
More pages from the Resources section
Resources HomeFind a website hosting service | Memory upgrade or new computer system?
In-Depth Articles...Web hosting
Choose from thousands of professional templates - get the impact your business website deserves fast...search
Continued SERPs monitoring and site optimisation for increased visitor numbers and business exposure...details
Solutions
Whatever you need - talk to us.Complete websites, existing site upgrades, product catalogues, mailing lists, user access systems & spam busting contact forms.