There are several types of hosting to choose from today. How do you find the right one for your website? What if you need a free web hosting service? 

This guide covers the five basic types of web hosting available right now, including entry level, low-cost options. With a quick overview of all the hosting choices on the market, you can find the one best suited to your website’s unique needs. 

1. Shared Hosting

One of the most common types of hosting is shared hosting, which most websites and developers start with. Shared hosting is usually the most affordable and accessible web hosting option, making it a great fit for individuals, small businesses and other small to medium sized groups and organizations. 

As the name suggests, shared hosting gives users access to servers they share with other websites. The exact amount of space a website has varies depending on their plan and hosting provider. However, shared hosting always uses shared server space. 

The main benefit of shared hosting is accessibility. Most free hosting options are on shared servers. This is a great entry level hosting option, especially for new developers. 

The main drawback of shared hosting is security. Shared hosting isn’t inherently vulnerable to cyber attacks, but the fact that servers are accessible by numerous parties does make it less secure than some other options. If you use shared hosting, you may want to choose a provider with robust security features or add your own third-party tools. 

2. Dedicated Hosting

Dedicated hosting is one of the most expensive types of hosting and considered the gold standard by many. Websites have their own completely private servers that aren’t shared with anyone else. 

This type of hosting is typically only an option for large organizations that are getting a lot of traffic on their website. For instance, a retailer whose website gets 50,000 monthly visitors would most likely want dedicated hosting. 

On one hand, only large organizations can afford the cost to purchase and maintain dedicated web hosting. Of course there are exceptions to this. For instance, you could have a popular online-only small business that gets a lot of website traffic. Dedicated hosting providers typically offer pricing on a custom quote basis, meaning businesses in this position may be able to get a more affordable price for their unique needs. 

On a practical level, large organizations are also the only ones that typically need their own private servers. If your website is getting a lot of traffic, it’s more effective for everyone if you have your own server. On shared hosting, one popular website can slow down performance for every other website trying to use the same computing resources. 

3. VPS Hosting

A VPS or Virtual Private Server blends the traits of two other types of hosting. Providers use a type of application called a hypervisor to virtually segment their shared server, creating simulated private servers. 

VPS hosting can be thought of as mini dedicated servers within a shared hosting environment. Your website uses a private partition of computing resources in a larger shared server system. It’s a bit like a duplex house – two people can live in the same structure without having access to each other’s private areas of that structure. 

VPS hosting is a good option if you want more privacy than traditional shared hosting but can’t afford or don’t need dedicated servers. It’s not ideal for those on a tight budget, though, since it is typically more expensive than shared hosting. VPS hosting can be thought of as a mid-range option between shared and dedicated servers. 

4. Cloud Hosting

Cloud hosting has boomed in popularity over recent years with providers like Google and AWS becoming leaders in this niche. It can include the above three types of hosting. The main difference is the type of server that hosting is based on. 

As the name suggests, cloud hosting uses cloud servers. There are two main types of cloud hosting: public and private. Public cloud is the equivalent of shared hosting while private cloud is the equivalent of dedicated hosting. You can have a cloud environment that mixes the two in a “hybrid cloud”, as well. 

Flexibility and scalability are the main benefits of cloud hosting over traditional options. In the cloud, your website’s data isn’t tied to any specific physical server resources. As a result, it’s easier to upscale or downscale as needed. This makes it more resilient to cyber attacks and natural disasters, as well. 

Unfortunately, cloud hosting can be quite expensive. Most providers only disclose pricing on a custom quote basis, but will only charge you for exactly what your website uses. So, compared to dedicated hosting or VPS hosting, cloud hosting may be more cost effective for a high-traffic website. It isn’t usually ideal for small websites or new developers, though. 

5. Managed Hosting

With managed hosting, users create or migrate their website to the provider’s servers and the provider does the work of updating, monitoring and maintaining it. Managed hosting can offer any of the above types of hosting. 

The most well-known example of managed hosting is WordPress’s in-house hosting service. It includes a mix of hosting options, including shared, VPS and dedicated hosting. For instance, you can use WordPress’s basic shared hosting service for free. At the same time, they offer full-service dedicated managed enterprise hosting for thousands of dollars per year. 

Managed hosting is more a category of hosting providers than a type of hosting itself. The defining feature of managed hosting is the ability to outsource server updates and security. You can do these things yourself, but it may be convenient to have someone else take care of them. 

Wix, Weebly and other website building services also offer managed hosting. WordPress is generally acknowledged as the industry leader in this niche, though. 

Understanding the Types of Hosting

Finding the right hosting option is a crucial part of starting and running a website. It can be confusing at first, but it’s really about matching your traffic and budget to a certain hosting option. 

Shared hosting is best for those on a tight budget or with low-traffic websites. VPS hosting is a middle ground between shared and dedicated servers. Dedicated hosting is mainly for large enterprises with high-traffic websites. Cloud and managed hosting offer a mix of services for a range of budgets.

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Effective website hosting makes the most of many technical considerations. One of the most critical of these decisions is deciding how to approach data center management. Many businesses frame this consideration as a choice between private, on-premise hosting and entirely outsourced services, but colocation hosting is an option, too.

Colocation doesn’t receive as much attention as other methods but can be the most cost-effective solution in some scenarios. Here’s a closer look at the practice and when it may be right for your business.

What Is Colocation Hosting?

Colocation hosting is a service where clients rent space in a data center they share with other businesses. Unlike a conventional third-party data center setup, however, the clients have total ownership over their own servers and software.

Many companies embrace cloud computing because outsourced data centers can lower IT costs and offer more flexibility. Still, many others run into management or customization issues if they have specific hardware or software needs. Colocation provides a helpful middle ground to balance the flexibility of the cloud with the ownership advantages of an on-premise setup.

In a colocation setup, the data center owner provides the physical space, electricity, cooling infrastructure, backup systems and network resources. The clients then rent this space to host servers they own and manage. 

Advantages of Colocation Hosting

Because colocation hosting combines aspects of on-premise data centers and managed services, it offers a similar combination of their benefits. Here are a few of the most significant advantages.

Improved Security

Security is a top concern for the cloud, with 63% of IT professionals citing cyber threats as the primary barrier to their cloud strategy. Colocation can address those concerns by providing more control and increased physical safety.

In a colocation setup, businesses manage their own servers, so they can tailor their cybersecurity controls to meet their exact specifications. In a conventional cloud environment, companies often have to choose from a vendor’s security tools or turn to another third party for additional protection. By retaining complete ownership over their hardware and software, they can regain control of their security.

Colocation centers also improve security by offering more physical security than on-premise servers can likely manage. Colocation hosts often provide 24-hour surveillance, biometric access and advanced alarm systems to prevent unauthorized physical access to servers.

High Reliability

Another benefit of colocation hosting is that it can improve server reliability. More than half of all data center outages cost $100,000 or more, with some even reaching millions of dollars, so improving uptime is crucial for any business.

In colocation, the host is responsible for all energy, cooling and bandwidth-related concerns. As a result, clients don’t need to manage these complex considerations themselves, reducing the risks of human error-related outages. These data centers also offer advanced infrastructure that smaller businesses may be unable to afford, further improving reliability without excessive costs.

Colocation also enables better disaster recovery systems. Because businesses aren’t hosting servers on their own premises, they can store data in locations that aren’t prone to natural disasters or power grid failures.

Reduced Ongoing Costs

Colocation can also lower an organization’s IT costs over time. Businesses still have to purchase their server hardware and pay an ongoing fee for their space in the data center, but they don’t have to worry about energy or network costs.

Data center energy costs can be astronomical, considering these facilities use 10 to 50 times the power per square foot of a typical commercial building. Providing sufficient network infrastructure to manage all a company’s servers can be similarly expensive. Consequently, by outsourcing these concerns, businesses stand to save a considerable amount.

Colocation also means companies avoid the upfront costs of building a data center they’d have with an on-premise solution. Businesses can also save money in labor costs, as the host will handle all data center staffing.

Scalability

Similarly, colocation hosting makes it easier to scale up or down as necessary. Effective website hosting requires adaptation to shifting trends, but expanding on-premise data center capacity is a slow, expensive process. Colocation centers offer a more cost-effective solution.

In some colocation facilities, businesses may have to buy new servers to expand. However, they won’t need to spend time and money on additional infrastructure to support this new hardware, as the data center will already have sufficient resources. As a result, they can grow faster and with less investment.

Some colocation centers also offer vendor-neutral services that can connect clients’ servers to other data centers and public clouds. In these cases, businesses can expand without additional hardware costs, as they can use remote third-party services to grow.

Disadvantages of Colocation Hosting

Of course, colocation comes with some downsides, too. It’s important to recognize these to make the most informed decisions about what’s best for your business.

Limited Control

Compared to entirely on-premise alternatives, colocation hosting means a sacrifice in control. While businesses still manage their own servers, they can’t tailor other aspects of the data center — like its power and cooling — to their preferences. That can benefit companies with less data center experience, but others may find it restricting.

Being in charge of off-site hardware can also introduce some unique management challenges. If any servers require in-person servicing, employees must drive to the colocation center to perform maintenance. That can be time-consuming and costly if it happens often enough.

High Initial Costs

Despite having lower ongoing costs, colocation can introduce higher upfront expenses. These are still lower than building your own on-premise data center, but they can be significantly higher than an entirely outsourced operation.

With a managed service provider, businesses only have to pay a monthly fee, but colocation requires the upfront investment of the servers themselves. This does give companies the freedom to look for hardware within a certain price point, but this technology is often expensive. Considering IT spending already accounts for as much as 18% of companies’ revenue, that can be an obstacle for smaller businesses.

When Is Colocation Best for Your Business?

Given these pros and cons, colocation hosting is ideal in some situations but not all. If you’re considering it for your business, start by outlining your budget and specific requirements, then compare those to these benefits and disadvantages.

Generally speaking, colocation is best for medium or large businesses or those experiencing steady growth. That way, the initial investment is less impactful, and these companies can take advantage of the practice’s scalability. Smaller companies or those with less IT management experience may be better off with an entirely outsourced hosting service instead.

Keep in mind that you may be able to take a hybrid approach. As many as 98% of enterprises use at least two cloud providers, which helps manage costs. You could use a colocation facility for some data or sites while using a public cloud or other managed service for the rest to balance costs and performance.

See if Colocation Hosting Is Right for Your Company

Colocation hosting offers a unique approach to cloud computing that many companies may overlook. Depending on your situation and needs, it could be a cost-effective way to boost server performance and expand your digital resources.

Making the best decisions in this area relies on an understanding of all your options. When you know what each path can offer you, you can find the best solution for your specific needs.

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Google VPS hosting is a web hosting service that provides privacy and reliability but at a lower cost than dedicated servers. Choosing a web hosting solution is a big decision. Many people may not be aware that shared and dedicated servers aren’t the only options, though.

VPS hosting can be a great alternative to both traditional hosting approaches. What is Google VPS and who is it right for? This guide covers everything you need to know about Google VPS hosting, its pros and cons, and a few alternatives worth considering.

What is Google VPS Hosting?

Google VPS is a cloud and web hosting service that offers private virtual machines running on shared physical servers. It’s one of a few different web hosting options Google offers today.

A VPS, or virtual private server, is created using a hypervisor, a digital layer added to a physical server to virtually segment it into isolated chunks. So, a VPS acts like a virtual version of a dedicated physical server. 

Google VPS hosting offers many of the same benefits as a dedicated server, but for a more affordable price. Unlike conventional shared hosting, VPS hosting allocates the resources of the shared server to specific, isolated parties. A user in one VPS on the server can’t access or utilize the resources of any other VPS on that same server. 

Google VPS hosting is customized on a user-to-user basis so you’re only allotted the space and resources you need. Google offers a free tier of the hosting service, but users can also get a custom quote for paid tiers, which are priced based on usage. 

Benefits and Use Cases

Why use Google VPS hosting? There are definitely situations where this hosting option would be a good choice. Of course, it’s not right for everyone, but it’s worth considering a few key benefits and use cases. 

Benefits of VPS Hosting

Pricing is a huge plus when it comes to VPS hosting. People who would like the privacy of a dedicated server but can’t afford one can opt for a VPS service instead. Google VPS hosting is a third option for cases where neither shared hosting nor a dedicated server are a good fit. 

There are also some technical benefits of using VPS hosting. For example, a small business owner using shared hosting might find themselves frustrated that other tenants’ traffic is reducing the resources available to their website.

By switching to VPS hosting instead, the small business owner can secure dedicated resources just for their website without the high cost and unnecessary infrastructure of a dedicated server. 

VPS hosting is generally more reliable than shared hosting due to the allocation of resources rather than open sharing. This often results in better performance for all tenants, especially when resource allocation is customized. 

Compared to dedicated servers, VPS hosting can be easier to scale. Users don’t have to worry about purchasing more servers or setting them up. They simply contact their hosting provider and request more resources to be allocated to their VPS. If needs change, they can also request to scale down, as well. 

Additionally, VPS hosting allows users to choose their own operating system. This isn’t always possible in shared hosting where a common OS may be required for all tenants on a server. Due to the use of a hypervisor in VPS hosting, though, each tenant can use their own OS. 

VPS Hosting Use Cases

There are many reasons someone might choose to use VPS hosting over shared or dedicated servers. The main benefits of VPS hosting point to a few ideal use cases. 

For example, VPS hosting is a great option for small businesses, especially those that are experiencing or pursuing growth. Scalability can be a challenge for small businesses since purchasing additional equipment and resources is often expensive.

VPS hosting has plenty of flexibility and is much more affordable than dedicated servers. This allows small businesses to only pay for the resources they need and scale up or down risk-free. 

Google VPS hosting in particular is a great option for individuals or organizations that already use Google’s other services. Google’s web hosting platform is designed to integrate seamlessly with other in-house apps and services, such as Google Drive, Google AI tools and other Google Cloud services. For those who already prefer these tools, Google VPS hosting may be a good fit. 

Google VPS is also an appealing option for users who may be new to VPS hosting. It is helpful for users to understand exactly what they need before signing up for any of Google’s paid web hosting services. However, the free trial option for Google’s VPS hosting makes it more accessible to people who may just want to test drive VPS and compare it to their current web hosting setup. 

Users who are concerned about security but have a tight budget can also benefit from VPS hosting. Dedicated servers are generally considered more secure than shared servers, but many people simply can’t afford the cost of a dedicated server. VPS hosting is a great alternative in this situation. It offers the privacy of dedicated servers at a much lower cost. 

Drawbacks of Google VPS Hosting

VPS hosting can be a great option in a lot of situations, but it does have a few drawbacks worth noting. For example, VPS hosting is generally more expensive than normal shared hosting services. This is true for Google VPS hosting as well as most web hosting providers.

The addition of a hypervisor and the extra effort to allocate, set up and manage VPSes results in a higher cost compared to shared hosting. VPS hosting is still typically cheaper than dedicated servers, though. 

Google VPS hosting is also less secure than a dedicated server would be. While VPS is more secure than shared hosting, it is still running on shared hardware at the end of the day. If maximum security is a must, a dedicated server might be a better fit.

Regardless of the hosting service users choose, they should always remember to stick to web hosting security best practices to keep their websites safe. After all, no hosting option is 100% cyberattack-proof. 

Alternatives to Google VPS Hosting

What if Google VPS isn’t a perfect fit but you still want to try VPS hosting? There are other VPS hosting providers you can take a look at and compare to Google’s offerings. This is a good idea for anyone who isn’t interested in using Google’s ecosystem of services. 

Ionos

Ionos offers numerous services and options for hosting, including VPS subscriptions. This is a fantastic alternative to Google VPS hosting for anyone looking for operating system flexibility. It’s fully compatible with Linux and Windows, which many VPS providers don’t offer. 

Ionos is best suited for small businesses thanks to its combination of unlimited data transfers, OS flexibility and affordable pricing. However, there are a couple of drawbacks. Ionos is not compatible with the popular cPanel web hosting tool, so anyone in need of cPanel may want to look at other providers. 

Additionally, Ionos does have a lot of additional charges for optional add-on features which can increase the cost significantly. Plans start at only $2 per month, though, so Ionos can still be very affordable depending on what you need. 

DreamHost

DreamHost’s VPS hosting plans have some important pros and cons, but this provider is definitely still worth considering. For example, DreamHost’s VPS plans include an SSL certificate, a guarantee of 100% uptime, a free business email and access to 24/7 customer support. Plus, they don’t limit the number of domains you can have. 

The pricing is the main drawback of DreamHost. Their plans are priced across four tiers with different prices for different contract lengths. To get the lowest price, you need to purchase a three-year contract plan. So, the basic plan costs around $15 per month on a monthly plan but only $10 per month if you sign up for three years. 

DreamHost is more expensive overall than most other VPS options. It is a good, reliable provider, though. DreamHost’s VPS services come with a robust set of cybersecurity features, as well. So, DreamHost is ideal for growing small businesses and medium sized businesses that need good security and guaranteed uptime. 

GoDaddy VPS

If you’re exploring web hosting options, you’ve probably already heard of GoDaddy but you may not be aware they offer VPS services. GoDaddy is a great option for VPS hosting, particularly if you need easy web design tools and a strong suite of security features. 

GoDaddy offers 99% uptime, free daily backups, 24/7 customer support, Linux and Windows compatibility, and cPanel and Plesk compatibility. It’s self-managed VPS, so you get full root access and total control over your site. GoDaddy also includes a free SSL certificate and DDoS cyber attack prevention. 

The one drawback of GoDaddy VPS hosting is its pricing system. The monthly fee is fairly affordable, starting at $9.99 per month. However, GoDaddy only offers 3 year terms, which you need to pay for up front. Depending on the plan you choose, you may also need to pay extra for some security features and Plesk/cPanel integration. 

Much like DreamHost, paying for a three-year commitment might sound expensive. It definitely is an investment to consider carefully. However, it is worth remembering that even with a three-year plan, VPS hosting is still less expensive than paying for dedicated servers. 

The physical equipment and expertise required to manage your own servers will usually end up being more expensive per year than most VPS hosting options. So, compare pricing for all of your options carefully and consider what web hosting features you might need in both the immediate and three-year future.

Finding the Perfect Web Hosting Solution

Web hosting can be tricky to navigate at first, but it helps to know all of the options available. Google VPS hosting can be a great fit for many users and organizations.

VPS offers an alternative to both shared and dedicated servers. It is less expensive than a dedicated server but more reliable and private than shared hosting. Google VPS hosting also offers a free trial for users to test out some allocated resources from the hosting service.

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Hosting your website or application in the cloud can provide many benefits for your business, including improved reliability, better scalability, and improved security. However, some company representatives find that cloud hosting costs are more expensive than they imagined. How can you keep costs down? Let’s take a look. 

Calculate Your Cloud Hosting Costs With Dedicated Tools

Something that many people overlook is that cloud hosting costs can become complicated. One of the reasons is that individual cloud providers have different pricing strategies and fee structures. 

For example, customers commonly pay based on usage, although some providers have flat fees associated with specific add-on offerings. A related issue is that many customers don’t know how much they’ll rely on cloud services. That uncertainty often leads to billing-related surprises. 

Consider how one study of cloud and IT decision-makers revealed 82% with public cloud workloads identified unnecessary cloud costs. One issue mentioned by 62% of respondents was that they rely on multiple tools, systems, and custom scripts to determine their cloud costs. 

It’s also problematic that 68% of the study’s respondents work in silos, restricting their ability to get the necessary information across various departments. Then, 70% of respondents said infrequent collaboration with colleagues interferes with their ability to adapt quickly for better business outcomes. 

The complications continue if respondents need visibility across hybrid and multicloud environments. Unfortunately, 86% of those polled said they could not get global cloud cost estimates in minutes. Then, 71% said that problem wastes time and prohibits them from maximizing value from the cloud. 

Solving These Various Issues

These takeaways illustrate how and why cloud hosting costs can quickly get out of hand. If you’re considering becoming a customer of one of the major providers, those companies usually have dedicated calculators to use. Take advantage of them, but only after having detailed meetings with all relevant parties to iron out the expected ways to use the cloud. 

Making the most of those discussions may mean breaking down organizational barriers and having interdepartmental meetings to receive input from everyone involved. Moreover, if your company will use third-party tools to track cloud hosting costs, develop a framework for doing so. Have it in place before or during your talks with salespersons associated with specific providers. 

Consider Your Company’s Current and Future Needs 

Your cloud hosting costs may not stay consistent over the next five years. However, you should at least have a general idea of how your company might change over the next three to five years. How do cloud costs factor into that vision? What might you use the cloud for in that longer-term time frame that’s not part of your company’s workflow now? 

Perhaps your business is only cautiously venturing into cloud computing now. However, you might hope to scale up significantly over the next several years. If so, one strategic way to keep costs manageable is to explore shared hosting. 

It involves several customers sharing space on a dedicated server. Cost management is one of the top reasons why people consider this option. The monthly hosting fees are typically much lower when sharing compared to if customers have private servers. 

However, if you decide on a shared server for now, it’s still useful to briefly discuss your future aspirations with the provider. For example, how easy would it be to transition to a dedicated server once your needs require and budget allows? Knowing some of those details now makes the switch less daunting when it happens. Plus, the talks will help you grasp how much cloud hosting costs would change on a private server versus a shared one. 

Adopt a Multicloud Strategy 

In the early days of cloud computing, many customers decided it was best to try a one-stop approach by choosing one provider to handle all their cloud needs. However, the cloud landscape has changed since then, and it’s still evolving.

Many customers realize they can curb cloud hosting costs by opting for a multicloud approach. It entails working with numerous vendors to create a connected cloud infrastructure comprising multiple products and services. That was one of the takeaways from a study commissioned by Oracle Cloud Infrastructure. It showed 40% of respondents cited cost optimization as a driver of their multicloud strategies. That’s because they can tweak how they use services from various providers, thereby cutting expenses in certain areas. 

Another 42% of people mentioned cost optimization as their most anticipated future use case for multicloud providers. The study’s authors also suggested that cloud-based planning from IT departments represents a notable shift in thinking. More specifically, they view multicloud possibilities as avenues for getting ahead of their technology requirements. That was instead of using those options to primarily react to crises. 

Consider, too, that you risk getting left behind compared to competitors by not at least exploring multicloud options. That’s because a whopping 98% of enterprises studied said they use or plan to use at least two cloud providers, and 31% use four or more. 

You may find a multicloud approach more feasible by considering software-as-a-service (SaaS) options. That’s because such providers generally allow people to pay a per-month or flat fee based on usage. It’s then easier for people to budget for cloud hosting costs in ways that make sense alongside their other expenses. 

Keep Cloud Security Tight

One of the reasons cloud computing is so appealing is that it allows companies to store a wide range of data without needing substantial on-site infrastructure. However, the key is keeping that information secure while in the cloud. 

A study of IT and IT security professionals found that the average cost of cloud account compromises hit $6.2 million in a year. Additionally, 68% of respondents said they view those security issues as significant organizational risks. Then, more than 50% said the frequency and severity of those issues had ramped up over the past year. 

Survey respondents revealed room for improvement, too. For example, only 44% had clearly defined the roles and accountability associated with safeguarding sensitive or confidential data in the cloud. Another issue was that less than 40% of respondents said their organizations do cloud app assessments before deployment happens. 

A study conducted elsewhere showed only 39% of organizations felt highly confident in their ability to secure data in the cloud. Then, 40% of those polled said 50% or less of their sensitive cloud-stored data was sufficiently secure. A mere 4% of respondents believed all of their data had appropriate security measures applied to it.

A cyberattack or data breach could substantially raise cloud hosting costs. That’s especially true if the affected parties must scramble to do damage control. Now is a great time to do a comprehensive review of existing cybersecurity practices to identify weak points. Consider hiring an external expert to do that examination. Someone from the outside will often quickly see things people within the company have missed. 

View Cloud Hosting Costs Along With Other Factors

Many people become overly focused on cloud hosting costs without viewing them in the context of how the respective services will help their businesses grow. Consider how a study found 63% of respondents agreeing that cloud computing positively impacted IT expenditures. Interestingly, though, 73% of people in the same survey said it had resulted in higher-than-expected costs.  

One telling finding was that only 20% of those polled had holistic strategies for their cloud transformations. A representative from the company associated with the research explained how unexpected costs can often arise when the people utilizing cloud computing need to be more familiar with how it works.

The cloud computing picture at your company may be more mixed than expected. For example, maybe you have pinpointed how cloud services have supported your bottom line by helping you bring more offerings and overall stability to customers. Then, even if cost overruns exist, they might still be worthwhile when looking at the complete circumstances. 

Curbing Cloud Hosting Costs Is Within Your Control

Keeping cloud hosting costs at a manageable level is not something you can do in a matter of days. However, these best practices will help you maximize your cloud expenditures. 

The post How to Manage Your Cloud Hosting Costs appeared first on Designerly.

Shared hosting is when different accounts share space on a server common to them all. The resources and space on the server are limited, so hosting companies typically limit how much bandwidth and heavy resources a customer can access at a given time. 

Is shared hosting good? No type of hosting is intrinsically bad or good. Which type of hosting you choose depends on the size of your business, how many visitors you have daily and the types of content you wish to share. 

Web hosting is a $90.42 billion industry with an annual revenue growth of 14.1% for all types of hosting. As more companies move into the technology of today, expect to see the share of cloud-based hosting increase, although some shared hosting packages are already considered cloud computing. 

Startups and smaller companies need the flexibility of third-party hosting but the cost effectiveness of sharing resources on the same machine with other business owners. Here are some things to keep in mind when you choose your hosting provider and as you move forward in decisions about whether to stick with shared hosting or try something different, such as a virtual private server (VPS) or dedicated hosting. 

1. Consider Costs

Shared hosting is often the cheapest option because you’re sharing resources on a single server with other business owners. The monthly hosting fees can be much lower than for other types of hosting.

However, you should also think about  more than just what your monthly hosting fees are. Some hosting companies don’t limit people’s usage on the shared server. This means that a person or two can eat up much of the resources and cause your site to slow down or crash. How much money might you lose if this happens?

Not all shared hosting plans are equal. Read through the fine print carefully before choosing a provider to avoid a situation where your site bogs down due to the actions of others outside your control. 

2. Pay for Speed

Look for a shared hosting plan with turbo boosts or some type of speed enhancement. Around two-thirds of users access the internet via mobile devices. One thing many people complain about is the lagging speeds they experience when accessing a site from their smartphones. 

Now that 5G is in most populated locations, people expect sites to load faster than ever before. Their phone has the capability but some servers seem to have a hard time keeping up. Conduct regular speed audits to ensure your site loads within seconds rather than a minute or more.

The last thing you want is a beautiful site that has perfect calls to action (CTAs) only to lose people because they have to wait too long for the page to load. 

3. Think About Your Knowledge Level

What type of hosting you choose might also depend on your knowledge level. While you can pay for management for any type of hosting, you’ll pay a premium for things such as software updates and troubleshooting. It’s much better to work within a system you’re familiar with than to be at a complete loss when you need to troubleshoot.

Most shared hosting plans run on cPanel, which is highly intuitive for beginner webmasters. You can always begin with shared hosting and then add to your skillset before moving into a VPS or dedicated plan. 

4. Talk About Scaling Up

Talk to whatever hosting provider you choose about how you can scale up as your business grows. Most companies make it very easy to move from a shared plan to a VPS to a dedicated situation. 

Look for a host providing all of these services so you don’t have to migrate your site to a new server. Even for a dedicated package, your current host will typically move your current site over rather than you having to spend hours moving and checking everything. We highly recommend you still check that all files moved properly and nothing is broken.

If you’re using a content management system (CMS) such as WordPress, you can download a plugin to test for broken links and images, saving you huge chunks of time. 

5. Look at the Perks

There are more than 300,000 web hosting companies at any given time. Choosing the perfect one for your business is challenging. One way to narrow down your options is to look at what extras you get with even the most basic package. The benefits should increase as you slide up the scale to bigger storage and bandwidth. 

For example, you might need an SSL certificate for an e-commerce store to keep everything secure and customer data encrypted. A provider who offers a free SSL certificate can save you money and might charge the same as one who does not.

Other perks might include better customer service, free marketing coupons or software others don’t install for you. 

6. Research Uptime

Why does nearly every shared hosting company advertise 99.9% uptime? Is the number accurate? It’s hard to say for certain. Different providers use different criteria to determine their uptime.

One thing you can do is to look at people already hosted on their site. Punch their address in an uptime monitoring system and watch it for a week or two before choosing a provider. You can see in real-time how often their site goes down or has issues.

While some problems aren’t caused by the hosting company but by whoever is coding the site, you might spot some patterns where several sites on a server go down at once, showing it is a problem on the provider’s end. 

You should also search for reviews of whatever company you’re looking at. You want feedback that isn’t listed on their site, because they’re going to choose only positive comments given a chance. Instead, seek out BBB complaints, look at Google reviews and pay attention to blog posts and complaints on social media.

Nearly every server has issues from time to time. The key is to find one with the fewest issues possible. 

What Is Shared Hosting for the Average Business Owner?

Is shared hosting right for your brand? Only you can decide how much you’re willing to pay for hosting and if shared is speedy enough and secure enough for your needs. Many businesses start with a shared plan and transition up as their company grows. 

You can’t reach customers with your digital presence until you have one. Your best bet is to compare prices and amenities and get your website up sooner rather than later. 

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A key factor in your business’ website performance is the quality, efficiency, and scalability of your database management platform. It can be challenging to find the most affordable, effective database management system (DMS), especially due to the growing number of systems and plans emerging.

A common tool used in modern web development is MySQL hosting. From content management systems like WordPress to large companies like Meta, MySQL and MySQL hosting is becoming increasingly popular. It’s crucial for companies to find the right MySQL hosting services platform for their business as competition increases in the data, digitally driven world.

The Definition of MySQL

MySQL is a free, open-source relational database management system, which organizes data in one or more tables to give it structure and form relationships with each other. MySQL works with a ton of operating systems (OS), including popular ones like Linux, Windows, macOS, Oracle Solaris and more.

While some clients use MySQL directly, it’s more widely used in tandem with other programs in order to implement apps that need relational database space. In other words, the system is based on a relational model. 

The acronym “SQL” stands for Search Query Language, and represents the standard language for relational databases. SQL is an effective language to use for inserting, searching, updating and deleting various database records.

How MySQL Benefits Businesses

There are several benefits businesses to reap by using MySQL hosting for their websites. 

On-Demand Scalability

Scalability is critical in today’s rapidly changing business landscape. Although one site only requires one database, it’s important to choose a provider which offers more capacity to account for future potential growth. Some hosts provide limited storage capacity, while others give businesses unlimited storage space, which is integral if a business experiences rapid, large-scale growth.

High Efficiency

When it comes to web hosting, speed is the name of the game. Highly efficient, quality database hosting in the database as a service (DaaS) sector is of key importance. Businesses benefit from exceptional loading capabilities so downtime is minimized.

Strong Data Protection

As cybersecurity becomes a top priority for all businesses, it’s no wonder that MySQL hosting services come equipped with high-quality data protection capabilities. Whether it’s an SSL certificate, encryption or access privileges, businesses can have peace of mind that potential cybersecurity risks are kept under control. 

24/7 Uptime

A quality database hosting service should come with near-perfect uptime. Most MySQL hosting service providers also offer 24/7 client support to ensure business continuity. MySQL is known to perform at a higher level than some other RDBMS.

Ease of Use

There are several other cloud-based databases — like MariaDB, Oracle Database or PostgreSQL — available for use. However, MySQL-supported platforms stand out for their ease of use. Most database hosting providers offer a user-friendly, easy-to-use platform with visual dashboards for simple, front-end management. Not every company is lucky enough to have a team dedicated to full-stack web development, meaning ease of use is a major factor in choosing a hosting provider.

5 Best MySQL Hosting Platforms in 2023

Nearly every web hosting provider offers support for MySQL, but they vary in quality, price and performance. There are a few key features every MySQL hosting service should include, but we’ll cover those later. For now, here are the five best MySQL hosting providers to choose from as we enter the new year.

1. A2Hosting

One of the best hosting services with MySQL support is A2Hosting. This provider offers SSL certificates, 24/7 customer support and database backups to help companies manage the increasing amount of data in the evolving business environment. 

With A2Hosting’s entry plan, companies can take advantage of five databases, which can include shared, VPS, dedicated servers and more. You can also connect to MySQL with Python, Perl, Node.js, PHP or the command line.

2. Hostinger

Hostinger is another widely used hosting service provider, and it supports MySQL. Hostinger’s base plan only allows you to use two databases, but you can pay for a Premium plan, which gives you access to unlimited databases. With this plan, you can host as many MySQL projects as you want within the same database, improving your workflow and database management processes. 

After signup, you can use Hostinger’s live chat support feature for any questions you may have. Hostinger’s Premium plan offers 100GB SSD and its Business plan offers 200GB SSD. All of Hostinger’s plans come with a free SSL certificate as well.

3. DreamHost

DreamHost offers a host of features and benefits, particularly helpful for WordPress users. For example, the platform provides a speedy response time of 396ms and a verified uptime rate of 99.902%. 

You can purchase the Starter plan for $2.95 per month, which gives you one website with unlimited traffic, or you can buy the Shared Unlimited plan for unlimited websites, unlimited emails and an SSL certificate. Both plans come with automated WordPress migrations, a WordPress builder and MySQL support.

4. Digital Ocean

Companies can use managed databases through Digital Ocean, another hosting provider. Three important features — scalability, automatic failover and daily backups — are what set Digital Ocean apart from the rest of the providers you can choose from. 

With only a few clicks of the mouse, you can launch a MySQL cluster and use Digital Ocean’s user interface for easy database management. Stored and in-transit data is encrypted with Digital Ocean, and you can access your databases through your company’s private network or the internet. You can whitelist the necessary inbound sources to ensure proper security.

5. Cloudways

The final hosting service provider to use for MySQL support is Cloudways. One of the platform’s best services is its Thunderstack MySQL database, which was designed for high performance and comes with pre-installed tools like Git and Composer.

Cloudways’ plans are oriented toward developers who need to manage one or more databases. Luckily, the platform also offers a built-in MySQL administration dashboard, which simplifies daily database administration processes and facilitates coordination between distributed teams. This could be a major boon for companies with a remote IT team.

How to Choose the Right MySQL Platform

There are several key features every MySQL hosting platform needs:

• Easy management
• Speed, reliability and scalability
• Ample storage space
• Automated features and auto-installers
• SSL security certificate
• 24/7 support
• CDN
• Extra features to benefit your company’s needs

Many hosting providers offer these features within their plans, which come in at different price points. The ultimate goal is to find a hosting provider that offers an affordable, suitable plan for your company’s MySQL and other web development needs.

Decide Which MySQL Hosting Platform is Right For You

The five platforms listed above are some of the best MySQL hosting providers to check out this year. There are other providers available, so be sure to do your research to make the best decision for your company website’s needs. 

As more data is generated worldwide, it’s imperative that you find the right digital solutions for your company, as it helps support your digital transformation and increase your competitive advantage in the marketplace.

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Web hosting migration from your current server to a new one can be stressful and time consuming. The last thing you want is for site visitors to see broken images, links or other issues after the move. The amount of downtime you experience can also impact revenue from your site. 

Fortunately, web hosting migration doesn’t have to be a catastrophe. With the proper planning and a few tips, you’ll feel like a pro at moving your files from one place to the next. Choosing the right hosting company is key to your success. 

Should I Move My Website to a New Host?

Google recently reported about 64% of online retail traffic comes from mobile devices. Unfortunately, the conversion rates for mobile are less than half what sites get from desktop shoppers. One issue could be the loading speeds, which are naturally slower on most smartphones. Add to it a slower server and you have a big mountain to climb to convert mobile users to buyers. 

If your current hosting company can’t handle the speeds you want, isn’t reliable or has any other issues, it may be time to consider web hosting migration. 

Web Hosting Migration Tips

Here are our best tips for before, during and after a move to a new server. 

1. Backup Your Site

Before you consider moving your site to a new web hosting service, backup everything. You should do a full site backup via your site’s control panel. However, it’s also a good idea to backup just the home, databases and all files within. 

Should the backup go horribly wrong, you will at least have all your images and text so you can rebuild your site. If you are on a content management system (CMS) such as WordPress, make sure you’ve backed up all databases, including various versions you may have switched to over the years.

In an ideal world, you’ll have cleaned up files you don’t need along the way. In reality, most small business owners get business and neglect to delete what they no longer need. It’s better to have a copy than risk losing something crucial. 

2. Choose the New Hosting Company

Seek out a hosting company specializing in your industry, such as one catering to small businesses or artists. Look at factors such as if they have good uptime stats and what perks you get with your package.

The cheapest hosting company might look like an attractive option, but if the speeds are slow, they are open to backdoor hacking or their customer service isn’t reliable, you’ll pay more in frustration and lost sales than going with a more expensive option.

Ask questions, read reviews about the website hosting company and figure out which one seems to be the best match for your current needs. Also consider how easy it is to scale up to a better package as your business grows. 

3. Decide on Migration Method

Some hosting companies offer a web hosting migration migration service included when you take out hosting with them for a year or more. It’s much easier to let them move everything for you, as they also make sure everything works. 

You’ll still need a backup and to do the post-move checks, but you won’t have the man hours of actually moving the site. 

If you have a WP site, you can download plugins that make migration easier. Another option is simply to download the backups from your old site, set up WP on the new server and upload your home backup and your database backup.

You may need to do some tweaks, such as resetting database names and reactivating plugins, but the migration is fairly smooth for most people. 

Another option for web hosting migration to a new server is downloading the entire site zip file and asking your new provider to upload for you. You could also move folder by folder over using FTP, but that process is pretty time-consuming. However, it would allow you to clean up files as you go and fix any issues you see along the way. 

4. Check Files

Once you’ve moved everything to the new server, check to make sure all your vital files are in place. Did all the images move over? Are all your content pages intact? The best way to check files is to pull up FTP and view the two sites side-by-side. Check to see that every file is copied and is in the correct folder. 

5. Test Your Site

You should test your website to make sure everything functions correctly. Click on every link, fill out forms and submit them, look at images and text on every page. Testing is often the most time-consuming portion of web hosting migration. 

The Bureau of Internet Accessibility recommends you test your site every four to six months anyway. When you migrate to a new server is an excellent time to double check and make sure those with different abilities can use your site the way it’s intended. 

6. Backup Again

Once everything is in place at the new server, go ahead and create a backup of the new setup. Sometimes there is a lag in how long it takes a new site to propagate. You don’t want to miss an important step or change because the site looked one way and functioned another. 

Pause for 24 to 48 hours and then back everything up and repeat any tests before pointing the domain name to the new IP. 

7. Close Old Account

If at all possible, wait 30 days or more to close your old account. Once you shut down the old server, you’ll no longer have access to any files you might need. Ideally, you’ve backed them all up, but it’s possible you missed something. It’s smart to allow some overlap so you can make sure everything functions properly. 

Stress-Free Web Hosting Migration

Web hosting migration is often a tense time for companies. Down time means lost revenue, so you’ll want to follow each step carefully and make sure everything works before making the shift. A stress-free move might be an impossible dream, but you can certainly reduce the headache of web hosting migration and wind up with a site that draws users.

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Whether you’re a musician, digital creator or painter, having a good website host can make all the difference for your website’s performance. 

You want to ensure users can find your website online to show off all your works of art. But how do you know which is the best website hosting for artists like you?

Consider the list of website hosting providers below to help you decide the best fit for your personal website.

1. Bluehost

Bluehost is a popular choice because of its ease of use. However, this provider makes website hosting the best for artists because of the many other rich features it provides. 

For instance, all plans include $150 Google Ad credits so you can start your first campaign and show off your creations.

More specifically, Bluehost makes a great fit for an artist because it provides:

• An easy-to-use website builder for WordPress to set up a professional-looking website quickly.

• A free SSL certificate for data protection

• An automatic WordPress installation.

Bluehost is reliable and beginner-friendly and will help establish a strong online presence. This hosting provider offers a wide range of plans, but Basic currently starts at 2.75 per month.

2. Hostinger

Hostinger is among the most affordable hosting providers on the market. Yet just because it offers services at lower prices, that doesn’t mean it compromises quality. 

Hosting is fast and reliable. Plus, it has many other great features you won’t be able to pass up, including:

• Easy navigation with its intuitive hosting management panel called hPanel.

• 99.9% uptime guarantee, so your website is always running smoothly.

• Free SSL and Cloudflare protection

The bottom line is that Hostinger is a powerful and affordable hosting provider. Its Single Shared Hosting plan starts at $1.99 when you sign up.

3. DreamHost

DreamHost is a great service because it offers artists’ websites unlimited storage space. This is great for artists since you’re likely to have many high-resolution images. 

In addition, it offers a drag-and-drop website builder so you can easily create your website in minutes. One downside is that it doesn’t have the best technical support.

However, DreamHost offers plenty of other features, such as:

• User-friendly control panel

• Free domain

• Custom email for as low as $1.67 per month

• Privacy protection and free SSL

• Automated backups

DreamHost’s Shared Starter three-year plan starts at $2.59 per month, an affordable price you can’t beat.

4. SiteGround

SiteGround is a premium web hosting service that requires some technical knowledge on your end. However, SiteGround has the best technical support if you need assistance.

Yet, that’s not the only aspect of SiteGround that stands out. Its hosting service also has a great reputation for uptime. And when you combine that with cloud hosting, you get a great service that’s consistently stable. 

Additionally, SiteGround performs daily backups and uses a custom web application firewall to keep your site secure from hackers. 

Other features you’ll enjoy include:

• Free SSL

• Unmetered traffic

• 100% renewable energy match

• 30 days money-back guarantee

Siteground’s pricing starts at 2.99 per month for one year. It’s ideal for beginners, and you’ll appreciate the friendly, professional service they offer 24/7.

5. InterServer

Many often overlook InterServer because it hasn’t gained much popularity. Yet, that doesn’t mean it’s not an amazing hosting provider. 

From unlimited storage to 99.99% uptime, it’s all you truly need as an artist who needs a website.

However, other features make InterServer a go-to option, such as:

• An easy-to-use cPanel for website management.

• Highly developed security protection to block viruses, hackers and malware.

• Backed knowledge in WordPress if you have security issues.

• Supports website growth without performance issues.

• Free SSL

While there’s not much hype surrounding InterServer, it will certainly deliver the service you need and its plans are affordable. You can choose its basic monthly plan for standard web hosting starting at $2.50.

What Is the Best Web Hosting for Artists?

All web hosting services listed here provide you with everything you need. While each may have pros and cons, the best web hosting for artists depends on your needs.

For the most beginner-friendly hosting provider, consider Bluehost as it’s easy to use and offers reliable service. 

The post Best Website Hosting for Artists appeared first on Designerly.

To build a successful website, you need a catchy domain name that reflects your business and is easy to remember. The hunt for the perfect one can be time consuming as many are already taken. Once you do find the right domain name, you need to register it–Google Domains versus GoDaddy–which is best for your needs?

Google Domains versus GoDaddy aren’t the only choices for domain registration. However, they both have a proven track record and are easy to use, so we’re going to focus on those two for the purposes of this comparison. 

Which Is Better – Google Domains Or GoDaddy?

Netcraft estimates there are 1.19 billion websites, although all are not active at once. Once you figure out your domain name, it’s time to head to one of the big registrars and see if it’s available. 

Perhaps you already own a domain and want to move it to Google Domains versus GoDaddy. Knowing the benefits and pricing of each can help you make a decision about what’s best for your business model. 

How Google Domains and GoDaddy Compare

When it comes to cost, Google Domains has the advantage over GoDaddy as it’s more affordable. Both companies give you free domain privacy, but Google Domains goes a step further by offering extra RDAP privacy.

If your business needs varied web addresses, you’re in luck since both providers allow up to 100 subdomains. Plus, if you ever run into any issues, rest assured, as Google Domains and GoDaddy have strong support systems to assist. 

Domain Name Privacy

Google Domains and GoDaddy offer key privacy options for your domain. Activating these options hides your personal details on the WHOIS database, replacing them with generic details from the registrar. This keeps your personal information private.

You have the flexibility to switch this privacy feature on or off with both providers. Yet, remember that certain domain extensions may not allow for privacy protection. You should also know that while both offer these privacy options, Google Domains often provides enhanced privacy measures, giving you an added layer of protection.

Business Email

Google Domains offers a neat feature with 100 free email names for your domain. These aren’t standalone email accounts but addresses that send mail to another chosen mailbox. If you want a dedicated business email address, it’s $7.20 per user each month. 

On the other hand, GoDaddy doesn’t offer free email forwarding. To get an email with them, you’ll have to purchase it as an extra. They team up with Microsoft 365 for this service, with prices starting at $1.99 per user for the first year, then going up to $5.99 from the second year onward. 

Domain Extension

Google Domains and GoDaddy have a wide range of top-level domains, with familiar ones like .com and .net. Google Domains provides over 300 domain extensions and offers suggestions on similar or alternative names.

GoDaddy has a broader selection of about 500 domains, but what’s available may depend on your location. Some domains even have special buying conditions, particularly region-specific ones. However, most businesses stick to the standard .com, which is what most consumers expect. Plus, at least half of all websites on the internet use .com. 

If you’re keen on a particular name, GoDaddy has a brokerage service to help. Yet, if you’re eyeing unique extensions like .studio, Google Domains is cheaper, starting at $20 per year compared to GoDaddy’s $39.99 annually.

Domain Transfers

If you’re considering moving your domain to a new registrar, Google Domains and GoDaddy have you covered. While shifting domains is easy with both, leaving them can be tricky.

Google Domains sticks to ICANN guidelines, setting a 60-day limit on initial transfers. The company is transparent about its rules, ensuring a smooth process if you wish to move your domain later. 

GoDaddy, on the other hand, adds a 60-day transfer hold if you alter your name, email or business title. Also, its transfer steps may not be as straightforward as Google’s.

Customer Support

Customer support is vital for your domain needs. Any issues can impact your website and its visitors. Google Domains offers support through phone, email and chat in various languages, even giving you expected wait times. Typically, you might connect with a chat agent within a minute, helping you link domains quickly.

GoDaddy provides phone and live chat support, though their hours vary by region. While they lack email support, 24/7 service is available in some places. However, users have mentioned lengthy wait times, sometimes over an hour, to reach a chat representative.

Between the two, if prompt assistance is crucial for you, Google Domains may be the top pick. 

Pros and Cons of Google Domains Versus GoDaddy

When you look at Google Domains versus GoDaddy, they look fairly similar on the surface. You have to really dig into the pros and cons of each registrar to see the differences. 

Pros Google Domains

Google Domains offers fairly transparent pricing and ease of registering that’s appealing to most people. Some of the advantages of using this registrar include:

• Use your already existing Google account to pre-populate information. 
• Dashboard looks familiar if you use any other Google services such as Analytics.
• No tricks with one-time coupons. You know what the domain costs now and later. 
• Includes privacy protection.
• Gain the power of Google Cloud DNS for faster page load times. 

With Google Domains, you also gain the protection of the latest security. Use two-factor authentication to prevent someone transferring your domain name out from under you. 

Pros GoDaddy

One big pro is that GoDaddy is a well-known registrar in the industry. They often offer discounts to new clients, making the first year very attractive. If you’re on a shoestring budget, you may even be able to register for a few dollars. Other benefits include:

• GoDaddy makes it easy to use their all-in-one service in that you can register and take out web hosting all fairly seamlessly.
• Newbies will find great deals for the first year–more on this in the cons section.
• They send renewal notices well in advance and even let you renew so many days after registration has expired.
• Easy interface

GoDaddy is extremely well known and offers a plethora of services outside simple registration.

Cons Google Domains

If you’re comparing Google Domains versus GoDaddy, what are some of the disadvantages you should be aware of?

• There are cheaper registrar options 
• Fewer name extensions than some other registrars (.com, .org, .biz etc.)
• You don’t gain any ranking advantages at this time by using Google Domains. Who knows if that might change in the future. 

Google Domains is a reliable registrar, with costs on par with other companies. 

Cons GoDaddy

If you’re figuring out which is best when considering Google Domains versus GoDaddy, you’ll also want to know the disadvantages with GoDaddy. 

• High renewal rates after the first year. You can pay as high as $17.99 versus only $12 for Google Domains.
• Site isn’t very user friendly. Because they offer so many services, it’s hard to navigate to just your domains.
• Costs for things such as privacy can really add up, with additional yearly fees. 

GoDaddy is still a solid choice for domain registration and is likely an excellent choice for beginners. 

Which Domain Registrar Is Best for You?

Only you can decide which option between Google Domains versus GoDaddy is best for you. Weigh the pros and cons of each. Even if you choose one and later aren’t happy, you can easily transfer to a new registrar. 

If you’re one of the 28% of businesses that still hasn’t started a website, you might be better off going with the discount and ease of setting up with GoDaddy. On the other hand, you’ll save money over time by choosing Google Domains.

You can’t go wrong with either of these. You’ll also find there are additional options such as NameCheap.com. However, be careful about registering with just anyone as it can impact your load times if the nameservers have a lag. 

How to Decide Between Google Domains Versus GoDaddy

Still not sure? You could always take out two versions of your domain name, such as a .com and a .net. Rather than registering both versions with Google Domains versus GoDaddy, consider registering one with each and seeing which you like best. You can then move them to the same registrar, depending on which one you like better.

The post Google Domains Versus GoDaddy: Which Is Best appeared first on Designerly.

If you’ve used social media as the place to share your work for far too long, it’s time for you to create a new website.

Yet, the one thing you need to start a website is a hosting provider that offers the best service for photographers. Below is a list of the best website hosting for photographers, delivering fast performance and generous storage for your online portfolio. 

Plus, they have many other features that are easy to use for comfortable website management. Let’s get started.

1. BlueHost

The best website hosting for photographers includes Bluehost – an easy-to-use service provider for your photography portfolio. Bluehost makes a top choice because of its seamless WordPress setup and reasonable price. 

The most basic plan comes with 50GB of storage, making it attractive for storing a photo-heavy website. However, you can upgrade to the Plus plan for unlimited storage. Plus, you get an email setup for communicating with clients. 

The hosting provider also offers great customer support and includes other features, like:

• A checklist for setting up your website.

• Automatic WordPress installation

• Free domain name registration

• Unmetered bandwidth

Bluehost pricing starts at 2.75 per month, which auto-renews at its regular rate.

2. HostGator

HostGator plans come at an affordable price with generous offers. They include one-click WordPress installation, free domain registration and unlimited storage. 

Moreover, this hosting service provides access to e-commerce tools if you decide to sell your prints online. HostGator also comes with a 45-day money-back guarantee if you’re unsatisfied with the service. However, if you choose to stay, help is available 24/7.

Other features that HostGator plans offer include:

• Unmetered bandwidth

• Free website transfer

• Free SSL certificate

• Single website

If you purchase the Hatchling plan, its introductory offer starts at 2.75 per month for one year.

3. Hostinger

Hostinger makes it the best website hosting for photographers because of its reputable services and affordable prices. In fact, it’s one of the only few performance-oriented providers, delivering fast website loading speed.

Additionally, Hostinger offers a clean, intuitive hPanel for managing all your site’s hosting and setup. However, the most ideal features for photographers include:

• LiteSpeed server for boosting website loading time.

• 99.9% uptime guarantee

• 50GB of storage for image-heavy sites

• Free email account

Hostinger’s pricing is the most affordable, starting at $1.99 per month.

4. InMotion Hosting

InMotion Hosting’s most special offer is its security suite. If site protection is paramount to you, InMotion Hosting provides you with the most advanced security tools, including:

• Free SSL

• Hack and malware protection

• DDoS protection

• Automatic backups

InMotion is also optimized for WordPress, giving you a one-click installation through any plan. One upside is that you have unlimited bandwidth on their cheapest plan and get 100GB of storage for your website. 

While InMotion isn’t the cheapest option, it still gives you a lot for your money, including ten email addresses and two websites. Yet if you’re not happy with the service, you can always switch and get your money back within 90 days.

Pricing for InMotion’s hosting plan starts at $2.49 per month if you sign up with a three-year contract.

5. SiteGround

SiteGound is a premium hosting provider, giving you a rich performance website and additional tools to manage it.

SiteGround is best for photographers that need a heavy-content site without compromising speed. Its powerful hosting service also provides you reliable service, including:

• Strong security tools like web application firewall, bot protection and an advanced monitoring system.

• Collaboration tools for employing others to work on your website.

• Functionality with pre-configured caching options, content management system updates and on-site optimization.

Siteground offers plenty of other resourceful features for your website and plans start at $2.99 monthly with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Choosing the Best Website Hosting for Photographers

The best website hosting for photographers will depend on all your website needs. All of the ones listed above have something to offer. However, if you’re looking for a simple start, Bluehost is the best for beginner-friendly WordPress websites. 

Find out what you need for your photography website before choosing, though. Once you learn about the features you need for your site’s performance, your decision will come more easily.

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