Choosing a Host

When it comes to creating a web site, one of the most important decisions that you will make is who you are going to host your website with. Should you opt for the uber-cheap Just Host, the trendy Mosso Cloud, or meet somewhere in the middle with DreamHost or GoDaddy? The options are endless and with the anonymity of the web it’s never an easy decision. So, the real question becomes, where to start?

#1 - Identify Your Needs

The options are so infinite that it is very important to figure out what you’re looking for before you even begin looking. How much space do you need? What about bandwidth, and MySQL Databases, need any of those? How about a budget, what are you willing to pay? Start by sitting down with a piece of paper and outlining what you need from your host and nothing more. Don’t yet think about those would-be-nice-to-have features, just focus on your needs.

#2 - Check the Listings

Once you’ve figured out what you need, it’s time to start digging. A quick Google search pulls up a nice variety of sites that offer various types of web host listings (TopHosts, HostCompare, and Web Host Directory to name a few). These are essentially giant directories of different web hosts that will allow you to compare and contrast what each host offers and the price you’ll pay. If you’ll notice though, on their home pages, each and every one has a list of all the categories. But wait, you already know what you want - so go ahead and choose the category you’re looking for and you’re off!

#3 - Narrow It Down

So you’ve got your list in front of you, and now comes the hard part, narrowing down your choices. This is the part of the process where it really becomes a “personal” thing and you just have to take an honest look at all of the possibilities and pick which ones best suit you and your needs. It’s important to remember that when comparing hosting prices, you should always check what currency the site deals with.

#4 - Read the Reviews

The majority of web host listings also offer a review feature. This allows people who are already using a web host to leave comments about the quality of service that they’ve received and give their host an overall rating. Despite the fact that some of the reviews may read like they’re written by a two year old throwing a temper tantrum, they are useful! Do not discard or ignore any of the reviews (unless they’re absolutely outlandish), especially if more than one says the same thing. Remember the reviews are real opinions from real people and should be heeded!

#5 - Make the Decision

You’ve identified your needs, checked the listings, narrowed it down, read all the reviews, and you’re exhausted. It’s not an uncommon feeling, you would almost think that with the vastness of the web it would somehow be easier than this - unfortunately no dice. Back to your big decision though, go with your gut. If after reading the reviews you’re left on-the-fence, then chances are that isn’t the host for you. If you’re 95% sure but just can’t push yourself that last 5%, take a look at the web hosts website - they can be a great indicator of professionalism and dedication from the web host. Weigh your options, grab a pepsi, and just make up your mind, plain and simple.

A Sidenote…

When choosing a host, it is always a good idea to have a look at their money back guarantee. Anything around 30 days is pretty standard and will give you lots of time to get your money back if the host doesn’t turn out to be all you dreamed of and more.

This article comes after a recent personal hosting “experience” (or more appropriately called woe). Let’s just say we would not recommend Servage to anyone who actually wants their site to be usable…