To a certain degree, most of the web-hosting providers out there are competing for the top spot in the web hosting industry and try to offer the very best services and high-end functionalities for their customers. We have a list of the top 6 things to be taken into consideration when shopping for web hosting packages. So whether you are a growing company or a large company or perhaps just looking for a simple web presence, it is important to be aware of certain vital aspects of web hosting and ascertain what features and benefits you would want to access from the different hosting packages offered.
1. Uptime and Reliability: Look for stability, speed and reliability when it comes to web hosting providers. Also, most web-hosting providers offer an uptime guarantee of 99% to 99.9%. This will ensure that your website is running smoothly and gets maximum uptime. Most web hosting companies offer a prorated refund if the guaranteed uptime falls below the stipulated benchmark. Companies can end up losing business if they do not consistently maintain their standards. So the uptime guarantee becomes a significant aspect to consider, as it would distinctly spell the credibility and reliability of the hosting provider.
2. Data Transfer and Bandwidth: Data transfer refers to the number of bytes delivered from your website to the visitors. Evaluate your current and long term web traffic figures and requirements as this would determine the amount of bandwidth required for your website. If the host is offering "unlimited bandwidth", it is important to find out the amount of traffic that would be allowed with this deal. Also inquire about any hidden costs or bandwidth overage policies. Evaluate your needs and budget before selecting the set package or perhaps just consider an upgrade if you would be paying for additional GB of bandwidth.
3. Disk Space: Do not get lured into "unlimited disk space" advertisements or large amounts of disk space of up to 500MB. Most of the web sites usually require not more than 10-20MB of disk space including the graphics, text, pictures or motion graphics.
4. Customer and Technical Support: Opt for a web hosting company that offers prompt and superior 24/7/365 customer and technical support. This feature enhances the reliability quotient of the web-hosting provider as well. You could also perform a test of their sales pitch by calling on a weekend and checking the reliability, validity, proficiency and promptness' of their technical and customer support.
5. Technical Features: Look for technical features like PHP, SSL, shopping carts, CGI-BIN, FTP etc. as all these are a necessity for your website. These features are essential in order to customize the error pages, set security measures, maintain the databases and much more. Ensure that the company offers full access to these tools and features and no hidden costs are involved within the package.
6. Control Panel: Consider this as your "cockpit" or "tools kit" as the control panel comes equipped with certain utilities that are required to efficiently and conveniently manage the certain aspects of your hosting account.
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