Various Web Hosting Packages and What Do They Mean
Depending on the size and complexity of your website, you may have to choose a different type of hosting package for your business needs. Here are the types of hosting packages you can find:
Shared Hosting
The most common choice for beginners is to use a shared hosting service to publish their site. As implied by the name, you will be sharing a server with a bunch of other websites. The biggest advantage is the shared cost, which means you can start your online presence on a budget. Moreover, your host will take care of server maintenance and everything else, which is nice.
But, keep in mind that you may be sharing a server with hundreds and even thousands of other websites, so expect a performance glitch every now and then. Even if your website does not grow over time, you will experience performance issues if another website on the server experiences a spike in traffic.
Virtual Private Server (VPS)
A VPS works better in case you have a spike in traffic. You will still be sharing an actual server with others, but you will have specific server resources, from processing power to storage and beyond, dedicated to your specific needs only. The host uses virtual machines to create a separation within the server, so you don’t have to worry about other sites stealing your resources.
It is going to be a much safer option as well, and you will be able to customize your environment as per your needs. Just remembers that you will have more configuration power but that will require more work as well. The high price may well be an issue too.
Dedicated Server
You’d be better off going for a dedicated server if you’re going to host a large website that will see a quick spike in traffic in no time. You will have full control over how you want to customize the server and use its resources. No other site would be on the same server, so it improves security and overall performance. Just remember that it can be extremely expensive and come with features you may never use.
Features That Determine the Quality of a Hosting Service
The quality of a hosting service depends on a number of factors, and you should consider them all before you finalize a buying decision. For instance:
- Uptime: A good hosting provider will ensure an uptime of over 99%. Some may even guarantee a 99.98% of uptime.
- Speed: How long your site takes to load completely depends on the quality of your host. Top hosting providers have a fast load time, which is sometimes around 360ml.
- Support: Top hosting providers know the importance of providing comprehensive support around the clock. They usually have the resources to sort all your issues, and that is why they enjoy a good reputation in the industry.
- Location: The location of your server can affect the loading speed and overall performance, which can be frustrating for the users. Server location also has an impact on SEO, as search engines consider IP address to generate the most relevant results. Top hosting providers have servers in all major locations to help you select one as per your own location.