Updated: June 21, 2010
I don't host sites directly - instead I maintain a short list of reliable, no-nonsense providers that can host your website. Each of these providers has a full range of offerings, with something for every budget. This list is compiled from client feedback and experience dealing with sites hosted by these providers.
|
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| Top Pick! |
1&1 Internet |
Reliable,
economical, solid hosting company with a worldwide presence. They are
here for the long term. |
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|
|
| Runner Up |
Verio |
Long
time hosting provider with a proven track record for reliability and
stability. |
 |
|
|
| Runner Up |
Superb.net |
Offers
plans with discounts if you pay in advance. |
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How to find a good Hosting provider
These are my rules for finding a safe, reliable place to host your business website. Follow these rules and you won't be switching your hosting company every year or two.
- Don't be too cheap. Heed my advice - $10 / month is the lowest you should pay for good hosting. For that amount, you can find great plans with solid providers. Companies offering plans cheaper than that probably have (or will soon have) problems with reliability, support, or financial viability.
- Go Big. I don't trust small hosting providers - many are just reselling for a larger provider. Their financial viability is largely unknown. Staffing may be just a handful of overworked employees. If they have reliability or performance issues, they don't have the capital ($$) or staff to fix them. They may just shut down with no warning. Look for a large company, with multiple offices and data centers.
- Ignore the reviews. Every hosting company has negative reviews. Usually it's those who had a bad experience that are posting whereever they can to vent their frustration. Any big hosting provider will have complaints, so the reviews are not very useful. My recommended list is from my own experience. These providers aren't perfect, but they do answer their calls, tickets, and emails when you have a problem.
- Look for support. Technical support should be open 24/7 - if they don't mention that on their website, call in and see if anyone's there. Smaller companies may not have anyone around weekends, or nights. When you need help, you'll want to know that it's available.
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