subject: Developer Tools To Look For In Web Hosting [print this page] Even if you're not a website developer, webmaster, or system administrator, you still have to take programmer tools into account when availing of web space. It's better to arrange it now rather than discover soon enough that your web host doesn't maintain a feature you want. Among countless developer tools on hand, these are the most necessary.
PHP
PHP is a frequently used server-side scripting language. This means that scripts coded in PHP are executed on your website server, as opposed to your visitor's system. PHP will supply your website's functionality. As a matter of fact, most famous online applications, blogging platforms, and content management systems are done in PHP. Ensure your web host supports the newest version of PHP. It's also an advantage if they maintain older versions, since some website applications may still make use of them.
MySQL
MySQL is a relational database management system, which is used to save your website data. A scripting language like PHP is in charge of writing and reading the information saved in MySQL databases. Selecting a web space host that allows unlimited databases is suggested. Some web space hosts give a limited number, which will be inconvenient if you aim to develop various websites.
Cron
Cron is a job scheduler. It lets users run scripts or commands at a programmed date and time, whether it's a non-recurring task or a repetitive one. Cron jobs are normally used for system maintenance, such as automatic backups. They can also be implemented for different purposes, like sending email to mailing lists. Management of cron jobs is much easier if your web host offers an integrated control panel that permits you to utilize a visual interface.
CGI
CGI, or Common Gateway Interface, is a standard protocol for external gateway programs to interface with data servers. Basically, it's a way for servers to communicate with users. For example, web forms make use of CGI to manage submitted form data.
.htaccess
Htaccess allows directory-level configuration. When you set an .htaccess file in a directory, you can override and modify your web server's configuration for that directory and its subdirectories.
Bonus: Ruby on Rails
While it may not be regarded as significant, Ruby on Rails support is a great thing to have. RoR is a web application framework used to develop websites. It's believed to be simpler than PHP; it has more readable syntax, and enables applications to be developed with less code. Since it's a new framework, some website hosts don't support it just yet. It's a good idea to obtain a web host that does, since RoR is getting more and more popular.
