When you’re planning to launch a website, the next step after getting it designed is to start looking for a website hosting provider. For new site owners, this can be tricky, since there are many factors involved in finding the perfect plan. The first step in doing so is finalising the type of web hosting you need. There are many options available, like Shared Hosting, Cloud Hosting, Dedicated Server Hosting, and VPS Hosting.
Shared Hosting is one of the most popular web hosting platforms, especially for new and small site owners. Today, we will be talking about Shared Hosting plans and explain the five most significant features that you need to know before buying.
1. The fundamental aspects of Shared Hosting
When you host your site, all the files and databases required to run it reside on the server. Hence, based on its size, you will need a certain amount of storage space on the hosting server. Then you have to ensure that your site remains accessible to users. Estimate and decide the bandwidth you will need for your website. If it needs to process more information/data every second, then you will need higher bandwidth and vice versa. It is also important to note that when you are looking at bandwidth, the web host should not restrict the traffic speed as it can impact your site’s performance.
2. Applications
So, you have a place to store your site data and the bandwidth to make it accessible to online users. Next, you will need some applications to run and manage your website efficiently. Most web hosts offer pre-installed apps to help site owners. One essential app that you would need is a control panel. This app can help you manage complex site management processes with relative ease. Several other apps are available for free or at a premium. Ensure that you are aware of them and choose the ones that are needed to manage your site with ease.
3. Uptime
Uptime is another essential aspect of web hosting that you must consider before buying a plan. Usually, web hosts offer a high uptime assurance. It means that they guarantee a minimum percentage of time your website will be online. Hosting servers need to be maintained, and sometimes they need to be powered down too. Other technical glitches can cause a server to shut down as well. Hence, it is essential to look at the uptime assurance offered by the host. Look for ones that offer 98-99%+ uptime as that is the minimum benchmark for a successful hosting.
4. Security
Site security is a must in today’s times since the number of hacking attacks is on an exponential rise. Also, websites of all sizes get hacked, and having a small site does not mean that you don’t have to worry about online threats. Look at the security features offered by a plan and check reviews to ensure that the host provides adequate protection to your website. Many hosts skimp on security features to offer cheaper plans. Hence, ensure that the purchase a Shared Hosting plan that offers adequate security for your hosted website.
5. Support
If you are new to web hosting, then customer support is an essential feature that you must consider. A support team can answer all your web hosting questions that you are likely to have when you begin. Hence, look for a host that prioritises customer support and offers multiple channels for communication.
Summing up
Remember, your site’s performance will depend on the performance of the hosting service. Hence, it is crucial to assess your site’s hosting needs and consider all aspects before buying a plan. If you are looking at a Shared Hosting service, then keep the features mentioned above in mind. Good Luck!
