Web Hosting: What To Look For

Reviewers say to consider the following when shopping for a Web hosting service:

• Look for a host that has been in business long enough to have a track record. If you choose a company that is profitable, that increases the likelihood it will stay in business.

• Make sure the host is directly connected to the backbone of the Internet. A reseller host may have its computer in between yours and the server that is directly connected to the Internet. Experts say a web hosting service should have at least one T3 line directly connected to the Internet. Check the host's website or ask customer service. It�s a good opportunity to test responsiveness.

• Make sure the host provides backup and redundancy. Redundancy means that your site is located on more than one hard drive. A reliable host will have your site on two different computers.

• The host should have a backup power generator to use during short-term power outages. Location information can be found on the web-host's site.

• Test customer service and tech support with e-mail messages and phone calls. Make sure they respond quickly and helpfully.

• Pay little attention to uptime guarantees, especially if you are not engaged in e-commerce. Reviews say that web hosting services guarantees lack teeth. For instance, some services will credit your account for the lost time (20 minutes here and there adds up to pennies).

• Censorship policies may matter to you. If you want to operate an adult-only site, or conversely you object to using a host that allows them, make sure you understand policy details.

• For e-commerce, make sure the host can provide secure transactions, payment tools if you need them, and compatibility with the software you plan to use. For example, if you created your site with Microsoft FrontPage, you'll need a host that supports FrontPage server extensions.

• For advanced e-commerce, make sure the host provides the database and scripting support you need.

Some web hosts offer templates, HTML editors, or web-based design software for creating your web pages. You may prefer a host that provides tools, or you may prefer to use professional tools. Our web design software report covers both approaches and the best tools for each.