Many website owners think it is a big hassle to change their web hosting because their site will be down, but that is only the case if you are unfamiliar with how to keep it live. You just need to know what to do when the time comes to switch hosting providers. This article contains some important information that will show you how to keep your site functioning while switching web hosts.
Don’t fall for any web host claiming unlimited bandwidth and resources. No company offers this; there is always a bottom line written in small lettering some place. Web hosts claim this because they are betting that their users will only end up using only a small fraction of the bandwidth truly allocated to them, and therefore, they will never know the difference.
You need to take the time to read the reviews that are posted on the internet about the web host you are thinking about using. This will allow you to learn about their customer satisfaction and about if they have good customer support in place. Both things are essential when it comes to a good web host.
Before you decide on a web host, find a reason to call or online chat with their customer support. This is the best way to figure out if you have a legitimate safety net for times when things go awry. If customer support takes too long, is rude, or seems to lack knowledge, consider looking elsewhere.
Make sure any offers of “unlimited” data transfer are actually unlimited. Many web hosts advertise unlimited data transfer in their offers, but tuck exceptions in the terms and conditions for the package. Common exceptions include video or non-HTML file downloads being limited, limits on CPU utilization, and general prohibitions on using “too many resources.”
Consider starting with shared hosting. If you are just getting started in the online world, and especially if cost is a factor, shared hosting is a great middle ground between free hosting and more expensive hosting options. You just need to make sure that your plan provides the minimum requirements your site needs. Another advantage to shared hosting is you can have the advantages of a higher tier web hosting company at a cheaper cost, with the ability to upgrade your plan later as your business grows.
Don’t forget, when you decided to go with a specific hosting service, you are often inheriting their customer support standards as well. It’s a good idea to aim for a hosting server with a record of helping its customers and assisting consumers in reaching their solutions, with or without proprietary interest.
Decide which host to use based on how well it meets your hosting needs rather than on other services it provides. You might not get the best deal on domain names or other extra services from your web host provider. Don’t purchase these extra services when you sign up for web hosting unless you’re confident that you’re getting the best deal.
The minute you start seeing things that you don’t like with your web hosting company, you should be gin looking at other options. This does not necessarily mean you are going to switch right then, but in case you need to, you will definitely be well-prepared and ready to move on.
As you can see from the above article, it is possible to keep your website active while you switch to a different hosting company. If you understand the transfer process and what you have to do beforehand, then there is no reason why you should lose a second of downtime. Apply the advice from this article to help you switch hosting companies without having to worry about your website going offline.