Though choosing a web host to suit all your online needs can be a bit daunting, it doesn’t have to be. Familiarizing yourself with the proper criteria before it is time to make your selection is an excellent way to both narrow the field and simplify the process.
The first thing you will probably want to look at, is deciding between free web hosting, or a pay per month solution. Though there are plenty of quality free solutions, it is our opinion at Plan. Produce. Promote. that for the relative low monthly expense, you should never allow a few dollars to dictate your direction when choosing a web host.
Your online prosperity is too important to gamble and free web hosting services often come with more than a few concessions. Either they run too many ads (that you have no control over) or they are unable to offset the cost of their servers in other ways and end up closing shop. This is the last thing you want to happen when someone is in charge of your online business, no matter how small it may be.
Things to look for when choosing a web host.
Multiple domains: If you are considering running multiple websites with long tail niche blogging (and you should be if you would like to see your passive income soar) then think of choosing a host that provides a large quantity (or unlimited) domains and sub-domains hosted within a single account.
Bandwidth: Don’t believe the hype. When choosing a host, you will find many companies offering “unlimited bandwidth.” Bandwidth, however, is never “unlimited.” If you consume far more than your fair share, it is unlikely your web host will roll over and absorb the brunt of the cost. You may find yourself instead looking at an outlandish bill for an exceeded limit. Steer clear of such offers. They are always too good to be true.
Service: This is probably the most important consideration. It is essential that in the rare instance of an online emergency, you are able to get someone on the phone to help guide you through your difficulty. Being able to trust your web host in a time of emergency is worth the few cents a day you will spend for such security.
Taking all the above into consideration, Plan. Produce. Promote recommends the web host Hostgator without hesitation.
Hostgator allows unlimited domains, more bandwidth than you will probably ever use, and excellent, friendly, and always available live customer support. In addition, Hostgator uses “Fantastico,” a dead simple one step auto install for WordPress.
WordPress is an essential ingredient to successful blogging. Choosing a web host that understands this makes perfect sense.
If money is a serious issue, you may want to run with one of the free hosting services, but if a few bucks a month is worth it to help you build your online empire, you won’t go wrong with Hostgator.
