Make no mistake. Not all web hosting services are created equal. After experimenting with tons of web hosting services by various hosting providers in the US, Europe, Japan, Singapore, and Pakistan, we have come up with the top 5 issues one should consider while choosing a web hosting service.
Top 5 Issues To Consider While Choosing A Web Hosting Service
1. Backup.
You can’t have security without a stable backup solution provided by your hosting provider. If your website does get attacked, you’ll want to make sure all your site content is automatically backed up and easily accessible so you can get up and running again quickly with limited downtime.
Pro-tip: Try one-click off-site backup because it allows your data to get back online immediately. This should apply to both backup of data you input, as well as the backup of your Web host’s data in case something happens to its server. Some web hosting companies such as siteground provide automatic backups for 30 days which could be an excellent solution for newbies in the web hosting industry.
2. Security
Security should be a top priority when searching for a Web host since cyberattacks and malware threats can cause your site to crash, or put your customers’ private information at risk.
When choosing a Web host, search for one that uses encryption technology between the user and the server, or between the Web host server and your business server. This ensures communications are encrypted and protected from hackers looking to obtain data.
Pro-tip: Inquire about password storage — you’ll generally want your Web host to avoid storing passwords in plain text format.
3. Analytics.
When you’re searching for a Web host, learn about the built-in analytics it offers. Analytics can help drive your marketing and content strategy. It should also be updated in real-time and easily accessible.
You’ll also want to work with a Web host that makes it easy for you to integrate changes to your website. Search for one that allows for simple and straightforward login capabilities, both to make updates to content and to access features such as email.
Pro-tip: Look for a Web host that features an easy-to-use control panel that allows you to not only access and edit any aspect of your website, but one that allows you to use search engine optimization tools.
4. Customer support.
The Web never sleeps, and neither should your Web host customer support team. Around the clock, support is essential, especially for businesses with Web visitors from around the globe. Pick a company with qualified customer service agents available to answer your questions at any time, in the language you speak.
Pro-tip: Ask about typical wait times when calling support on the phone, and about chat and email support capabilities.
5. Scalability
If you’re hoping your website leads to more business, you’ll want a Web host that can grow along with you and not crash as you grow. Ask a potential Web host what their uptime guarantee is. The closer you get to 99.9 percent uptime, the better.
Pro-tip: A substantial uptime guarantee comes from reliable server capability and support, so look for a host that’s heavily endorsed by reputable customers.
Also, be wary of shared hosting, which means your website will be on a server with many other sites. It can negatively affect your site if another website on the shared host is troubled in some way. It can also impact your website speed, which affects customer satisfaction. If you do go with a shared host, make sure the host has the ability to grow with you. Also, evaluate any potential cost increases based on growth.
Putting a website online can be simple, but it will only be successful if your Web host provides the relationship your small business deserves. Get to know your host and how they can benefit your business before locking down a partnership.
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