Things to Consider about Shared Web Hosting

Shared web hosting plans vary from host to host, but there are some things that you need to consider regardless of the provider. Look over these options and remember them when choosing your provider so that you get what suits your needs.

Windows or Linux Web Hosting

Depending on the type of web site you will be running, it may require different scripts. Some scripts are compatible with Linux OS and others only Windows OS. This will be one of the main factors to determine the shared web hosting plan that you choose.

Scripting Language

Check with the shared web hosting provider that you are thinking of using to get this information. If you know that you will be using a particular scripting language (e.g. php, asp), you need to be sure that your web host supports it.

Database

If you will be running a Content Management System (CMS), for instance, you will need access to a MySQL database server. You need to be sure that your shared web hosting provider can accommodate this need, so of course, they will need to offer Linux hosting.

Disk space and Traffic

Depending on the size of your web site, you will need a certain amount of disk space. Some shared web hosting plans give a small amount of disk space while others give larger quantities. Many times, bandwidth is unlimited, or seemingly so. You cannot expect to have unlimited resource usage because it is just not possible. Just check and make sure the plan matches your specifications.

Web Server Performance

Most shared web hosting companies use Linux web servers because they are highly capable of running multiple tasks at once without any significant load. Windows servers are not bad, however. But, a Windows server is not able to reach its maximum capacity like a Linux server can.

Price and Support

Windows based shared web hosting plans are more costly than Linux because the Windows OS is not free. Linux is open source, thus your cost is lower. There are some web hosts that charge you the same amount regardless of your choice of operating system though, so be aware of this.

Control Panel

Shared web hosting plans often include a control panel, so it’s best to look for one that offers a control panel that you are comfortable using.

Email accounts

Depending on the size of your website, you may need more than one email account. For this reason, you need to choose a shared web hosting provider that allows a reasonable amount of email accounts to be created.

Consider all of these factors when shopping for a shared web hosting account. Knowing what you need beforehand can save you a lot of trouble later.