How to Choose a Reliable Domain or Web Host

There are several factors to consider when selecting a preferred domain or web hosting company. I consider the following factors as important in your choice of web host:

1. Reliability. It is vital that you choose a web hosting company that is reliable. A Web host that has a good reputation. You will find this out by looking at the reviews for the company in a search engine. Reliability means that they deliver what they claim and the customers web sites are always on. i.e. 99.9% of the time. You can also tell from the testimonials of the existing customers. You can also gauge the reliability from the Awards earned in the industry.

2. Hosting Details. Look at the details of the offer and compare it with what you want. Is it Linux or Windows Hosting? Most websites are hosted on Linux servers, so go for Linux Hosting. In case you intend to use scripting languages like ASP/ASP.NET v 2.0 or databases like Microsoft SQL, ODBC/DSN then it is advisable that you go for the Windows Hosting option.

Also look at other details like Disk space that is being offered, and bandwidth. Are Instant backups offered? Do you have an option to host multiple domains? If you wish to run a blog, is this option offered (Fantastico)? If you intend to run an e-commerce site, find out whether the e-commerce feature is offered. Look at the databases and scripts that are supported. Look at the Email options as well.

What about the cPanel? I consider this very important. Inquire about the cPanel or control panel which is where you will be doing the customization of your website. It should be user-friendly and allow you customize your website to your satisfaction.

Hosting Plans. Choose between Shared (Virtual) Hosting, Dedicated Hosting and Reseller Hosting. In case you have an individual website or a small business site, then opt for the Shared or Virtual Hosting plan. In case you intend to run larger or complex sites, then opt for Dedicated Hosting.
Reseller Hosting. Incase you are a web designer, sign up for this plan; you manage your clients’ websites from one single control panel without the need to remember multiple logins and passwords on different web hosts.

In case you intend to move your domain from one host to another, find out how easy it is to do so. Does the new host support you? Most will offer free support for your domain transfer, website transfer, MySQL transfer, and transfer of other scripts that you might have on your existing website.

3. Customer Service/Phone Support/Live Chat Support/Email Support.
This is a very crucial factor. When there is a problem with your domain or website, you will need to be attended to ASAP. Find out whether all or most of the support mentioned above is offered 24/7. Try out the Live Chat facility before you sign up and see how quickly you are attended to. Call the Phone support line and see how well you are attended to. When you are convinced go ahead and sign up.
4. Price. This will give you an idea whether the offer fits your budget and whether it is within the market rate. Also find out whether you are given your money back in case you are unhappy with the service. Usually a 30 or 45 day full money back guarantee is offered.

5. Network and Data Infrastructure. Inquire about the infrastructure and the redundancy or backup measures available when there is a problem. If you can, find out how well they prepare and adapt to the latest technologies in the industry.

The above mentioned factors should give you an excellent idea of your ideal domain or web host. I wish you the best as you select your preferred domain or web host.