Six Steps to Choosing a Reliable Web Host

Hosting Questions?

Are you searching for a reliable host for your first Web site or looking for a more reliable host for an existing site? Consider these six steps:

Make a list of Web site needs
- How much traffic does your site generate?
- How much space does your site need?
- Will you be using a database with your site?
- Will you need a shopping cart and/or merchant account?
Ask business colleagues for referrals
With hundreds of Web hosts nationwide, it can be daunting to choose one. If business associates are happy with the up-time and speed of their site, chances are you will be too.
Compare services
Go to your prospective hosts’ sites and read about their services. Can they meet your Web site needs? How long have they been in business? How does their pricing work? (hint: the lowest price is not always the best deal.) Are they local? If you will be using their programming services or may need to colocate a server, a local host is preferable.
Research prospective hosts
Search for positive and negative comments about your prospective hosts using a search engine.
Test the support system
Call or email their support system. Are they responsive and helpful? Is someone available if you need help at night and on the weekends?
Ask the tough questions
Ask their sales department these important questions:
- Do you own your own data center and infrastructure?
- Do you have on-site technical support?
- Do you provide daily offsite backups?
- How many sites do you host on one server?

Because your Web site is an important part of your business and you can’t afford downtime, invest some time when looking for a reliable Web host.