things-to-look-for-when-choosing-a-web-hosting-siteFinding the best web hosting provider should be easy right? Just type in web host in a search engine and it will return with thousands of results. But with so many web hosting services providers to choose from, how do you differentiate one from the other? How will you know which ones are giving you the best value for your money and which ones are just pulling your leg?

Most people looking for a web hosting services provider probably have no clue what to look out for. To make it easier for you, here is a quick checklist of items you need to check out before you decide which web hosting services provider is the best:

  1. Storage – If you are planning to store huge amounts of data, you should check if your web host can accommodate your needs. Most web hosting sites let you store a few gigabytes of data. These are enough for standard blogging and occasional photo and video posts. But if you plan to post content with heavier/bigger files, you need to discuss your options with your provider.
  2. Bandwidth – Bandwidth is the amount of data that you or the people visiting your site use to upload or download data from your site. This means that every time someone views your site, your bandwidth usage increases. The more people view and use your site the bigger bandwidth you will need.

You have to remember that bigger bandwidth comes with a price. Some web hosts only allow so much bandwidth in a month while others let you have unlimited bandwidth. But beware of the fine print. They might have hidden restrictions that are written in the terms and conditions so read carefully before signifying your agreement.

  1. Additional features – Some web hosts let you have your email with your domain name attached to it while others do not. Another feature they add is web analytics and monthly traffic reports about your site. Additional features like these, when given for free, make a web host look attractive. It means that you don’t have to get another provider to do these things for you. You save a lot of money in the long run.
  2. Backup – If your website should crash or break for any reason, you’ll want to have a backup that can be used immediately. A good web host should be able to restore your site with a backup that’s as close to the one that just crashed. Ask your provider how often the backup data is updated. In case your site crashes, you would at least know how much data is lost. It is ideal to have a backup that’s updated daily, but it might cost you additional fees.
  3. After Sales Support – It is important that you are able to get help for any problem you encounter at any time of the day. It is ideal if your web host can provide 24 hours a day, 7 days a week support. This will ensure that someone will be able to fix your problem no matter what time or what day it is.
  4. Lock in period – Don’t tie yourself up with one provider for longer than 2 years. You want to have the flexibility to switch to another provider if you need to.

In order to get the most out of your web hosting service provider, you have to make sure that you have done your homework – read web hosting reviews. You need to choose the one that gives you the spectrum of features and services that you need and will actually use. Do not be afraid to voice out your concerns when negotiating with your providers. Let them know clearly what it is you need and hopefully they will be able to provide you with the right solutions.