10 Tips For Choosing a Web Host
Choose for Top Host Guide
by Hannah Parker
Before you choose your next web hosting package you should stop and run through a checklist to make sure you’re getting everything you need. Here is a list of 10 things to look out for:
1. Geolocation – If you are aiming for a geographically targeted audience – make sure you host in the right country - if you're aiming for a UK market - then host in the UK. Some popular hosting companies in the UK host in Germany and Sweden - so don't take it for granted.
2. Server: Apache or IIS are the main options. If you're migrating from one hosting company to another it's probably wise to stick to the same server type if you have any server side processing - unless you've allowed for added time and cost in your budget
3. Scripting: PHP, ASP, mySQL, Perl, SSI. If you've employed a scripting genius who is the leading expert in his field at PHP - don't give him ASP to deal with. If you want your server to send email automatically when actions take place, PHP provides a very simple command for it. If you want a quality data base - check to see if mySQL is included in the package....I could go on - but you get the message.
4. Disk Space: How much disk space do you get? Is it enough?
5. Server Up Time: A good reason that sites underperfrom SEO-wise is the server reliability - if the server is down whenever the bots come round to check the site - it is not going to be well indexed.
6. Control Panel - does it offer a flexible control panel that allows you to configure things like email accounts
7. Email - and while we're on the subject - what does the email package include - is it as flexible as you want - can you get all mail forwarded to an admin account?
8. Subdomains - sometimes it's good to be able to set up a subdomain - for example if you want forums on your site e.g. forums.mysite.co.uk. Does the control panel allow you to do this? Does it cost extra?
9. Help Desk - How accessible is it? Can you phone them? Is it 24/7
10. SSL – Finally – do you have requirements to gather secure data on your site site? If so – do you need to install an SLL? Can the hosting company provide you with this?
There are of course many other considerations – for example can you create more than one FTP account? Price? If you already have hosting you might want to check who else is hosted on your server, using Reverse DNS lookup, so you can ensure you are not hosted in a bad neighbourhood. In short there are many considerations – and you will probably never be happy unless you have your own dedicated server – but if you work through this checklist, at least you’ll know you’ve tried!
Hannah Parker is a Software Engineer with over 10 years experience in Defence and Commerical industries. She is currently a Campaign Delivery Manager for Vertical Leap. Vertical Leap provides Managed Search Engine Marketing, specialising in SEO and PPC marketing.
Related Hosting Guides to Choose for Top Host
Host Depot Inc