Good Web Hosting Service
If you’re looking to build a Web domain, you need to find a Web host (a company that will store your files on its servers). Web hosting companies offer shared dedicated and virtual server packages, but that doesn’t mean that they’re cookie cutter products. Web hosting is a varied landscape in which pricing, storage capacity, RAM, CPU power, databases, email accounts, and other factors are vital differentiators that separate one provider from the next.
Web Hosting Service.
Desperately Seeking Servers
Before you decide on a Web hosting package, you need to know which type of hosting best suits your needs.
- Shared servers are very affordable, but they can prove problematic when other sites on the server eat up system resources and impact your domain’s performance.
- Dedicated servers eliminate shared server issues by allocating all of the system resources to your domain, but you’ll pay a pretty penny for the exclusivity.
- Virtual servers fall somewhere between shared and dedicated; multiple domains can exist on a virtual server, but they operate in a dedicated server-like fashion.
Investigate the pros and cons of each server type before plunking down your credit card—especially “unlimited bandwidth” claims that aren’t truly unlimited. A Web host that has 24/7 customer support is desirable, too. You’ll want someone to call when your site inevitably goes down at three in the morning.
Linux vs. Windows Servers
Web hosting involves more than just selecting a server type; you have to decide whether you want to go with a Linux-based and Windows-based server (yes, servers require operating systems).
- Linux-based servers are generally more popular, wallet-friendly investments. This is the route to take if you don’t need to run apps that require Microsoft software.
- Windows-based servers will set you back a few more bucks, but it’s worth the dollars if you need to run specific apps. For example, if you have custom applications written in Microsoft’s .NET language, you’ll want to toss some money at a Windows-based Web server.
Pore over several Web hosts’ Linux and Windows offerings before pulling the monetary trigger.