subject: Check Out These Great Web Hosting Tips [print this page] How many times have you tried to hire a company to build your website, only to see that they want you to pay exorbitant fees to them in exchange for hosting your site after they build it? Don't fall for this tactic. There are many web hosting companies out there, fighting for your business. Use the tips below to find the right one for your needs that fits into your budget.
If you are working with a limited budget, consider using a shared web hosting service. This option is especially appealing for personal websites or any site that will not be used to store sensitive information. If you take this route, you can expect to pay well under $20 per month--much less than you would pay for service from a dedicated server.
If your website is used for professional purposes, you must be sure to avoid free hosting services at all costs. It may seem tempting if you are on a tight budget, but there are too many downfalls to make it worth your time and effort just to have constant problems with the host.
When choosing a web hosting service, refrain from going with the recommendation of friends or family who are not professionals. Though they may have had a good experience themselves with a certain provider, realize that their needs may be very simple compared to yours. Read reviews and advice from those who have needs similar to your own.
When first signing up with any of the many web hosts, you need to ask if there are any discounts offered for signing up for an extended period of time. A lot of web hosts will give you a discount if you sign up for a year or more with them.
Though you may not want to think about any potential need to shut down your website in the future, don't neglect to ask about cancellation policies with a web hosting service. Inquire about contracts, refunds, and what happens to your content if you cancel your service. Ideally, there would be some way to retain the pages that you worked so hard to create.
If you want to have an e-commerce website, look for a host that offers this specific kind of service. Other services might not have the same security features. E-commerce features might be a little more costly, but they will allow you to create a site that looks professional and can support the kind of traffic you need.
When you are choosing a web hosting company, it is important that you rely on more than just one or two pieces of advice on a recommendation. Many recommendations are from people who haven't even experienced the web hosting company that they are recommending. Choose wisely, do your research, and know many things about the company that you choose.
When in doubt, simply go online and do some price comparisons against the hosting price your web developer wants to charge. Chances are, you will find a better price for hosting elsewhere. Take advantage of the information here to help decide which web hosting company best fits your needs and saves you the most money.