Being a webmaster, you are probably already aware of the importance of having a hosting provider. After all, it is the foundation of what websites and other online data centres exist. You will need to ensure that your host site is reliable and has sufficient security measures installed to prevent theft or destruction.
You may also choose a hosting provider that provides multiple server installations (a multi-server hosting plan) or perhaps even a package with unlimited server space.
What Is Web Hosting ?
This is an online data storage and sharing service, as well as the server space where Internet services such as the World Wide Web (www), file transfer, and Mail are hosted… Hosting allows you to keep your website’s content or data contained.
In another sense, Hosting is like a piece of property on which you can build your home, which is your website. In this land, you can make websites, register domain names, and upload photos and videos using WordPress.
Types Of Web Hosting
Before you decide to buy a host, you should be aware of the primary three types of hosting:
● Dedicated Server:
When you rent a private server, you have complete control. As a result, this Hosting is for a website with a high volume of visitors. Because a Dedicated Server is quite expensive, it is not necessary to purchase one if you have just created a website.
● Virtual Private Server (Vps):
A Virtual Private Server is a minor type of hosting. With a VPS account, you only have access to the resources you buy. So, if you only want to add a minimal number of reports, VPS is most suited for your needs.
● Shared Hosting:
This is the most popular type of hosting and is open to any webmaster with an idea and a web space to display information. As the name implies, this type of website hosting involves a single server that multiple websites or virtual hosts (in other words, other websites) share by using their directories, databases and FTP accounts.
How To Buy Web Hosting ?
Nowadays, there are many data centres in the world, and you must establish a variety of online presences for business purposes. To do this, you need to evaluate each requirement for hosting and buy Hosting according to your specifications.
First, you should choose the Hosting that suits your needs. For example, if you need a shared hosting plan with unlimited server space or if you require personal space for each account, then VPS or a Dedicated server might be your best choice.
Second, it is essential to check many criteria such as bandwidth limit for uploads and downloads, number of domains registered with your host provider and so on. You’ll need web space that is large enough for future needs.
Third and final, before buying Hosting, you’ll have to obtain documents from the hosting provider, such as a signed agreement and your data centre access. This should be done so that Hosting will not be in violation.
10 THINGS TO CHECK BEFORE BUYING HOSTING?
i. First-time purchase Vs Renewal cost
Most of the best Hosting companies provide different types of hosting plans. If you are going to be a first-time buyer, then you should choose the most economical method. In case you are renewing your Hosting, you should check out what features and facilities the Hosting company offers.
ii. Support
Check if the hosting company you’re considering offers live or 24/7 support for any issues or questions. When you need help with your Hosting, the support team should be able to solve your problems as quickly as possible by recommending the best solution.
iii. Backup/security
Backup is essential for your data, especially if you engage in e-commerce. Make sure the Hosting company you choose has some online backup solution – it will keep your site’s content safe from harm and ensure that any problems can be quickly addressed and rectified.
iv. Uptime and downtime
Choose a hosting provider with a strong reputation for maximum uptime because the last thing you want your customers to see when they type your URL is a blank screen. Choose a hosting provider who guarantees 99.9% uptime all year, minimal downtime, and no loss of customers or revenue.
v. Terms & Conditions
A hosting company with your best interests in mind will offer a “Terms and Conditions” agreement, which explains the basics of hosting and what it is you will be getting from them. They will explain how long you have to use the hosting service before deciding whether or not it is a good fit for you. You should also make sure that you read this agreement thoroughly.
vi. Reviews and rating
Check some websites with Hosting reviews before making a decision. Also, check on other sites related to your website hosting business, such as review sites like Capterra, G2 Crowd and Felfly. These websites provide customer satisfaction and reviews of various business-like website hosting service providers.
vii. Price & package comparison
Compare pricing plans and packages offered by different companies. You can also ask for your competitors’ benchmark pricing so you will know which hosting provider would be offering the best deal. However, if you are looking for cheap hosting services and do not mind that you might not get things your way, then choose a low-priced hosting account.
viii. Domain
When you choose a website hosting plan, you must make sure you pick a domain name from the host company. A good example would be .com domains because typically, this is the most familiar domain used on the web. It also helps to have a .net or .biz domain because these can also be relevant.
ix. Refund Policy
As a customer, you should always check the contract you sign with the host company. If something goes wrong, you need to understand the host company’s refund policy. Check to see if there will be any charge from them for processing your request for credit or refund.
x. C panel
Through cPanel Plesk, all hosting providers provide standard methods for managing your Hosting. Even though this is a fundamental requirement for customers, it is essential to check whether a hosting provider charges for this service, as most do not.
Conclusion
As you can see, several things to consider before buying hosting for your business. As the saying goes, with great power comes great responsibility. You should always take the time and check if the hosting company you are considering is legitimate.
If you find out that there are things wrong at the host level (such as security issues), you should switch hosts immediately as it indicates that the entire site could be compromised.