Avoid These Three Pitfalls When Selecting a Web Hosting Service

Jan 2
07:23

2024

Candice Pardue

Candice Pardue

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The first crucial step towards establishing your own website is selecting a web hosting service. This service will provide your site with a space on the internet, making it accessible to the global audience. However, the process of choosing a web host is not as straightforward as it might appear. There are several pitfalls to avoid during this process. This article will highlight three common mistakes and explain why it's crucial to steer clear of them, particularly if you're planning to launch an online business.

The Lure of Free Web Space

Many advertisements offer "free web space",Avoid These Three Pitfalls When Selecting a Web Hosting Service Articles but it's advisable to steer clear of these services. Often, these services are free because the company will plaster your web page with advertisements for other websites. This contradicts the purpose of establishing "your own" web business.

Why should you divert your potential customers elsewhere? Ideally, you should retain the visitors that you've attracted through your own advertising efforts.

Opting for "free web space" sites often results in losing more business than the cost of securing your own domain and hosting service. It's simply not worth the trade-off.

The Limitations of Restricted Hosting

Avoid hosting packages that restrict you from adding order forms, statistics, or multiple email accounts to your website. These are essential tools for any webmaster intending to launch an online business.

It's advisable to select a hosting service that offers a wide range of options, including:

  • Multiple POP Email Accounts
  • Dedicated Hosting
  • Secure Servers
  • Web Usage Statistics
  • Web Space Allocation (you can determine how much web space you'll need)
  • URL Redirection
  • Autoresponders

These are just a few of the "necessary" services to consider when selecting a web host for your new website.

The Deception of Low-Cost Hosting

Be wary of extremely low-cost hosting packages (e.g., $2.50 per month). They often require something in return, which could eat into your online business profits.

While the prospect of free or very low-cost hosting may seem appealing, it's important to consider the potential costs before signing up. For instance, each time an advertisement banner is placed on your website, it's designed to divert your visitor to another site. Most free or low-cost web hosting services place these banners at the top of your web page, giving the visitor an opportunity to leave your site before even reading the first words of your content.

One common complaint about free hosting services is that the company's server becomes overcrowded, resulting in the customer's website being inaccessible half the time. When this happens, your business is effectively closed, and you have no control over the situation.

Conclusion

Securing your own domain name and hosting service can instill more confidence in your site's visitors, making them more likely to purchase your products or services. Search for a web host that offers excellent service, affordable rates, and all the tools you'll need for your online business. You'll be glad you did!