How do you narrow down your hosting options?
By now, you probably know what you're looking for in a Web host. Make a shortlist of your needs and start combing directories of Web hosting companies to determine which hosts offer what kind of package deals. First, start by browsing CNET's list of basic hosts, then try other lists such as the Web Host Directory, TopHosts, WebHosters.com, and the Web Hosts List. Each of these directories has hundreds of hosting companies and their hosting plans. Shorten the list by first picking the type of hosting that suits you best (basic, shared, e-commerce, dedicated, and so on). Next, look for plans that satisfy both your budget and basic requirements. Then, it's time to ask the big questions.
"We recommend checking out other hosting solutions, we believe you will find Data Flurry as your best choice! " |
How's the hosting tech support?
Check out the host's service policy at its site, but remember: support packages aren't always as good as they sound. The phone-support desk at one $7-per-month host we tested is seldom staffed, and voicemail messages went unanswered for days. On the other hand, the e-mail-only support from domain registrar and Web host DirectNIC, which charges $30 per year for ad-free site hosting, handled our questions in less than half an hour.
"Test out phone support, we believe you will be satisfied" |
Are other customers happy?
The best insight you'll get into your prospective Web host is unedited customer feedback. Do the hosts on your shortlist host their own online forums? Check out those forums or search other online discussions, such as WebHostingTalk or Usenet newsgroups at Google Groups. Many gripes may come from customers who are biased or more demanding than you are, so read the reactions to any complaints as closely as the original remarks themselves.
Is the WebSite hosting service reliable?
Again, you can't judge a host by its feature list. Check out online forums for comments about a host's performance. If a host lists any customers with sites that are similar to yours, check them out at key times of day to see how quickly they load or whether they seem sluggish or unresponsive. To be more scientific, test those sites using the free NetMechanic monitoring service. If you can't find any pages to test before you register, test your own site after you've signed up and make sure you can back out of the deal if the results are unfavorable.
"Check out the Data Flurry structure for in-depth information on our service reliability" |
If I back out, will it cost me?
Before you sign up, find out if you can get out of your hosting contract should the deal go sour. Opt to pay month to month, even if your host offers discounts for year-in-advance payments. Look for plans with free setup, too, so that you can test your site before your payments start rolling in. Most important, register your own domain instead of having your host register it for you. If you administer your own domain, it's easy to switch hosts: just visit your registrar and enter new names for your servers. If your host administers your domain, it has little incentive to play along and may actually charge you for any domain-related transactions.
"Data Flurry offers the first month free. If you cancel your hosting service, there are no charges!" |
Will my host be around in a year's time?
In theory, a big, publicly traded hosting company is less likely to go belly-up and take your WebSite with it. But, think Enron: a highly leveraged, big corporation may be on even shakier ground than a small, low-rent reseller. Don't drive yourself nuts trying to predict disaster. Instead, just keep your shortlist on hand.
"Data Flurry is running strong and plans to be here for the long haul!" |
This great article was supplied Courtesy of Cnet Hosting News |
