What to look for in a Web Hosting Package
Buying a hosting plan can be as easy as purchasing one online, but you should know what you’re getting into. If you don’t know all of the ins and outs of web hosting, it can seem a little confusing. From managing files to ensuring security, there are numerous things to be concerned about before making that final click. Thankfully, there are a lot of different web hosting options out there, so take the time to investigate each package to make sure you’re getting what you need to make your web presence a success. Here are some things to keep in mind:
1. Easy Backups
Before you entrust your important site assets and files to a web hosting company, make sure they offer some sort of automatic backup system. It should come included as part of the web hosting package.
2. Advanced Emailing
Successfully running a website means being able to interact directly with your website visitors. You’ll want to make sure that the web hosting plan offers at least POP3 email capabilities standard.
3. Web Statistics
You will undoubtedly want to have the ability to track who is coming to your website and from where. The web hosting plan should offer some basic web analytics for free and more advanced ones for purchase.
4. PHP and MySQL Functionality
A good web hosting package should include compatibility with standard programming languages such as PHP. Also, having MySQL capabilities makes it easy to run advanced back-end operations and database tasks.
5. FTP Service and Virtual FTP
You will also want the ability to manage files remotely, securely and efficiently. FTP access lets you easily add and remove files from your system architecture. This has become a standard that you should definitely have with any hosting plan.
6. User-Friendly Interface
The days of complex programming being the only way to access your web hosting functions are gone. Today, look for an affordable hosting package that employs a simple, straightforward user interface. Many packages offer a Windows-based interface that is both familiar and intuitive to most personal computer users.
7. HTTPS Secure
HTTPS makes secure connections possible over otherwise unsecured browser connections. This basic technique for encrypting regular hypertext messages is a clear sign that your site is trustworthy and safe. This is important for member services and client log ins on your website.
8. Shell protection
SSH security shells make it easier to mange the secure files and private assets on your website. Without it, administrative actions are less secure, something that you cannot risk if you have sensitive information stored on your server.
9. Webmail
Webmail is all about access. If you are not at your private laptop or desktop and you have no specialized software to retrieve your email, you can use webmail to access your email from any computer with a working internet connection and regular web browser.
10. SPAM protection
If you are going to be able to manage your time effectively, you don’t want to deal with loads of spam mail. This is an increasing problem, so be sure that any web hosting package you are considering has protection for your inbox.