The Truth About Unlimited Bandwidth

The Truth About Unlimited Bandwidth

The network of lines that carry some of the data network (fiber optic cable, copper wire, etc) have a finite capacity. There is a limit to the amount of data that can be transferred at any time. Also, the hard drive of a web server has a limited amount of space determined by the physical size of the hard drive.

Many hosting companies claim to offer "unlimited" plans (both disk space and bandwidth), but note that there are physical limitations to both disk space and bandwidth. Before buying a "unlimited" plan, know what you get.

The attraction to Unlimited
When consumers decide they want a website on the Internet, they are often unaware of the fact that there are limitations. Unlimited is attractive because it does not require further reflection. If is unbounded then never need to worry about running out right? While this is understandable, there are risks with purchasing unlimited plans.

Myth Unlimited
Many web hosting companies offer "unlimited" as a plan feature. It is impossible for any provider to offer unlimited bandwidth and disk space. But it is not possible.

So Why are there unlimited plans?
Most websites only consume a small amount of bandwidth and disk space. Web hosting companies offering unlimited nothing like a plan feature are banking on the fact that you will not use much. Unlimited is a marketing trick for your business. The web hosting market is very competitive. Although selling plans that pretend to be unlimited can seem dishonest, it does not mean that the hosting company does not provide good service. Check in the hosting company's Terms of Service: there will probably be a note about what "unlimited" really means.

When Åre Unlimited Plans Ok?
If you have a small website and know they will not consume too much space or bandwidth, and then make plans without limit your options a little easier to understand. Most plans that offer unlimited will have some restrictions such as no download audio or video. The reason audio or video downloads are not allowed in unlimited hosting plans is because these types of files in large consumption of bandwidth and disk space which exposes the host to the risk of having to add more space the hard disk and bandwidth, which costs them more money. If you choose an unlimited plan and you know their needs will not be very intense, then it will not run into any problems.

When Åre Unlimited Plans Not Ok?
If you're having a great number of visitors to your site, lots of downloads, including audio or video files, do not choose an unlimited plan hoping to get unrestricted bandwidth. You will encounter problems. Your web host will not operate at a loss for a long time - could be shut down your website or even charge you extra (read the Terms of Service).

So What is the best?
The best course of action is to plan ahead. Calculate the rate of bandwidth and disk space you need for your website (you can use the information and tools on the site FindMyHosting to do) and then multiply by 2 only to allow for the expansion. Remember, you can always buy more bandwidth and disk space if necessary - often only a few dollars a month extra. Look for plans that meet those requirements. Another FindMyHosting article "Understanding bandwidth" does a good job explaining the details behind bandwidth.

Only consider an unlimited hosting plan if you know your disk space and bandwidth requirements are very low. If on the other hand, you have an ecommerce site or a site you expect to grow in size and bandwidth in future, avoid any plans that offer unlimited bandwidth and disk space.

Review the list of Unlimited Bandwidth web hosting providers