Finding a Reliable Host
by Walter Pfarr
Finding reliable hosting for your business
opportunity is no small task. Actually, it can be a full-time undertaking!
This is because most hosting companies focus on
the higher end corporate market and overlook the fast-growing small office/home
office (SOHO) sector. It is possible, however, if you clarify needs, gather
recommendations, create a list of potential hosts and ask questions....lots of
them.
Clarify your needs: how much disk space and
bandwidth is necessary? Will you need CGI or database capacities? What operating
system will you require? Will your site change dramatically down the pike, and
are you searching only for yourself or for customers?
Be wary of web hosting directories since many
are owned by web hosts. You should obtain feedback from those with sites and
glean webmaster newsgroup postings.
In creating a list, include those recommended
the most and complained about the least, and determine which hosts offer
specific services best suited to your need(s) and which fits your price range.
Always ask questions, i.e.: technical questions
to gauge their knowledge and accuracy; find out whether they are committed to
their customers or their bank account and subject them to an honesty
test...offer them the opportunity to upsell you needlessly.
If you fall into the SOHO category, you may
feel more comfortable with a smaller hosting company who better understands your
needs and situation. Please be sure you can add domains to a core plan and
resell services, and ensure that they offer a knowledge base.
You should also watch for signs of rudeness,
impatience and unresponsiveness and make sure they are flexible. A downed site
costs you visitors and sales and gives you only another headache in your life of
an Internet marketer.
About the Author:
Walter Pfarr has over 30 years media experience
and has won several writing and community service awards. He is also a prolific
grant writer and administrator and is versed in fundraising techniques, special
event coordination, development and currently is writing his own e-course and
soon his own ezine: PfarrOut. He lives with his wife, Joann, in Oklahoma and may
be reached at walterpfarr@mynewsletter.ws
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