subject: Hosting Your Website For Entertainment And Sun [print this page] Web hosting is a service you need to host your domain name, and then build your website so you can promote its purpose to the world. It must be dependable, fast and affordable. There are various features you need to consider when choosing a hosting service.
Your domain name will probably tell everyone what you do, and it will help you in deciding what other things you might need to help promote your business. Service oriented sites might be able to get by with only a few pages and some means of visitors getting in contact with them. But, do keep an eye on the future and what other things you might decide to add to your website.
If you want to do it yourself, look for a hosting service that provides you with an easy to use interface that will create your web pages with a few drag and drop efforts. This will save you lots of time, money and stress if you are not interested in learning computer programming.
Unless you are a web author, you will need a good file uploading interface to get your product descriptions and images loaded on the site. Look for a simple to use file manager that comes with the package deal from the hosting provider. It will be the handiest tool you have at your disposal for adding to your catalog of products.
Most hosting companies provide standard operating features in the form of little scripts that you do not have to write, just use. Some of them include: a contact form - for asking you questions, Content Management System (MA) - putting valuable and related content on your site, mailing list - for a newsletter, blog creator - allowing visitors to make commentaries and possibly a forum script for more detailed discussions.
You will also want tools to help you promote your site, such as search engine optimization and advertising content or links. Promoting your site to every possible directory is a must. Along with that you will also want some means of rating your site. These are scripts that allow your visitor to cast a vote, either on your site or to some other concern where the votes are displayed.
You will want to have enough storage room for all the files and images you wish to place on the website, so be sure to sign up for a sufficient hosting package to fill your needs. Most providers allow you to upgrade if you run out of room, but be careful that your site does not have technical issues as a result of insufficient file storage space. Use the file size totals displayed in the status bar of the file manager on your personal computer to determine the approximate amount of room you are already using and then add enough to keep up with your expected growth.
After registering your domain, web hosting is the second step in getting your website online. Search the Internet looking for different companies who are in business providing these services and then pick the one that best fits your needs and budget. You want an easy to create website, and you certainly want it to be easy to create. So, choose a provider who has the tools to help you get where you want to be in far less time than a college degree.
