Deciding on the Right Type of server
In choosing a hosting service for your business, you have to decide whether it is best to decide on a shared, dedicated or cloud based server. Small scale businesses often go for the so called shared or managed service. Though it costs less, your business will have to share its server with many other websites.
A dedicated server, as the name connotes, is a single server dedicated to your business. They are not as pricey like before and can be cost-effective when you want to have a server platform for your business without worrying that other businesses on a shared server would negatively affect your online businesses in case they experience any problems.
It is important to look into the service level or SLA that will come with your dedicated server. Check out the extra expenses – like maintenance or other additions that are not included in the rental cost. Finally, try to purchase server space that you can expand further. You certainly wouldn't want to discover that you have outgrown your server only after a few months, and need to transfer to another one.
Last but not the least is the cloud, which has made a major impact in the business world. It has also touched website hosting, and now, gives another option to the usual hosting methods. Cloud hosting is powerful because of its flexibility. In essence, your business can just purchase the needed space and hosting services then expand whenever it likes to, without any interruption.
The moment your website is built, you have to find a place to host your data. A lot of web design firms include this in their services, but somehow, your online business becomes stuck with a particular company. You have more control when opting for a separate web host and when you are directly dealing with the web host rather than a third party. This can be useful if you are expecting an increase in traffic resulting from a marketing campaign, and you need the web host to make sure your site does not give way despite the additional pressure.
Most web hosts offer an all-in-one fee for set-up, bandwidth, operating system, hardware and support. While it looks like a trouble-free alternative, the problem is, you do not really know where your money is being spent on, and may be paying for unnecessary services. To make sure you are not being deceived and taken advantage of, request for a breakdown of services or better yet, separate quotes for bandwidth, support and hardware, to name a few. This way, you will know what you are getting for the price you are paying, and if it is in excess of what your business requires.
It is crucial to decide on the hosting services that are best for your online business. Many consumers tend to be too critical of the online stores they frequently buy from because they want these sites to be efficient and accessible whenever needed. With the right hosting service, you can be sure that your business develops into a destination site in its industry, and that your customers will surely make it known among their social networks.
