It can be daunting selecting a web host if you’re not in the know. And sometimes the big name brands that you’ve heard of, aren’t the best option. So I wanted to give you the low down on what you should look for in a web host, and a few of the ones that I recommend.
But first – what is a web host?
A web host is like a secure storage space on the internet where your website’s files and data are kept, allowing people to access your website online. If your domain is your street address, your hosting is the block of land where you’ll build your website.
Here are some things you should consider when choosing your hosting provider
Reliability and Uptime: Choose a web host with a solid track record of uptime. Your website should be accessible to visitors around the clock. Look for hosts that offer uptime guarantees and have reliable server infrastructure. All web servers will go down for a couple of minutes per day for maintenance, however that should be a maximum.
Performance and Speed: Website speed directly impacts user experience and search engine rankings. Opt for a host that uses fast servers, content delivery networks (CDNs), and offers features like solid-state drives (SSDs) to ensure optimal loading times. The number of other websites all hosted on the same server will directly impact the speed of your site.
Scalability and Resources: As your website grows, its resource requirements might change. Ensure your web host provides scalability options, allowing you to easily upgrade your plan as needed. Check for features like sufficient storage, bandwidth, and the ability to handle traffic spikes. To begin with, a plan with about 10gb storage should be enough to support a brochure style website.
Customer Support: Reliable customer support is essential. There will always be times when you need assistance with your website. Look for hosts that offer 24/7 support through various channels (live chat, phone, email) and have a reputation for being responsive and helpful. This support is invaluable when you encounter technical issues.
Security and Backups: Your web host should prioritize security. Features like SSL certificates, regular security updates, firewalls, and malware scanning are essential. Additionally, automatic backups are crucial in case you need to restore your website to a previous state.
A few recommendations for web hosts:
With those parameters in mind, here are a few web hosting providers that I recommend:
