What Do You Need From a Web Hosting Package?

By Mark Bellinger

Web Hosting Packages

The first consideration for most people when looking at a hosting package is cost. However whilst this may be true, many people are also wary of the "cheaper hosting packages" as they may seem to offer little in the way of added value not to mention the perception of poor support & reliability.

So ideally you really need a hosting package that combines low cost with high standards in terms of up time, reliability dependability & value.

Therefore the above criteria should be non-negotiable when it comes to selecting a hosting package to support a professional web presence - but where can such an animal be found?

First of all let's identify the things you do not want from a web hosting provider

• Down Time - Not only will your site be down & unavailable to site visitors, but your email will also not be functioning. The consequences of this happening are obviously dire & extended or frequent periods of down time will not happen with a reputable web host.
  
• Poor or Non Existent Support - 24/7 Email or telephone support is of vital importance because if its not there when you need it most, for instance when your site is down, your stress levels will go through the roof.
  
• No Regular Back Ups - Unfortunately hard disc failures do happen & without regular back ups, you will have to re upload all your files & images - however with no backups of your own you will have no website - nothing!
  
• No Added Value - With most web hosting packages you would at least expect to get added value features like free templates & shopping carts etc.

Just be aware that whilst the above pitfalls are often associated with cheap hosting packages they can also be present with the more expensive packages - so pricey does not necessarily mean top quality.

So What Are the Minimum Requirements That You Should Expect Form Any Web Hosting Package?

Well it should be easy to secure at least the following from any web host worth their salt;

• 24/7 Support
  
• Free Website Builder
  
• Free Website Templates
  
• Free Easy Install Scripts

So whilst making sure that your web hosting package includes at least the above value, you still need to ensure that you don't fall prey to an unscrupulous web hosting company that falls short of it's promises.

Some victims of shabby web hosts have lost year's worth of work, customer databases and other valuable information - in other words a web hosting company that turns nasty could cost you your business.

Therefore if you come across a hosting package that is both cheap & has all the bells & whistles, just make sure that you do some research in terms of the company's track record & profile before signing up with them - it could be the best (or the worst) hosting deal you will ever get.

Read about our Web Hosting Package of choice here. Mark Bellinger, a university graduate, is a successful businessman and entrepreneur exploring internet business opportunities here.