As internet users, we take for granted the instantaneous communication and data transfers that make pulling up a website so seamless. You click a URL and a web page filled with text, images, audio, and video rapidly appears. A web hosting service makes this all possible. Web hosts ensure text, media files, and metadata are associated with the right URL so that when you enter a web address, you get the correct website.
As a business owner, you want the best web hosting services you can afford, since your website is a calling card for your entire business. If your site loads quickly and smoothly (with graphics and video properly rendered), you immediately create a positive first impression on potential customers. You also get to educate them about your business on your own terms.
Here’s a guide to finding a web host for your business’s site, plus a rundown of some of the top web hosting providers on the market.
What is web hosting?
Web hosting is a service that allows individuals and organizations to make their websites accessible on the internet. It involves renting or buying space on a physical server that stores website files. When users want to view a website, they enter its address (URL) into their browser, which then retrieves the website files from the server and displays the website on their device. A web hosting provider provides and maintains the web servers that make this possible.
Key components of web hosting
Here are the main components of a web hosting service:
- Server. Computers store website files, and web hosting companies maintain this hardware to ensure websites are always running and accessible.
- Bandwidth. The data that transfers between the server and users over a specific period, bandwidth allows more users to access the site simultaneously without performance issues.
- Disk space. Disk space is the amount of storage provided for website files, databases, and other content; larger websites with more media (images, videos) require more disk space.
- Domain name. A domain name is the unique address of the website, like www.example.com. It is not part of the hosting service itself but is necessary for accessing the hosted site.
- Uptime. The amount of time the server is operational and accessible, uptime is crucial for ensuring a website is consistently available to users.
Types of web hosting
- Shared hosting
- Virtual private server (VPS) hosting
- Dedicated hosting
- Cloud hosting
- Managed hosting
- Reseller hosting
As a customer, you have multiple website hosting options from which to choose—from a high-performance virtual private server to shared space on a large server. Here are six options to consider when selecting a web hosting plan:
1. Shared hosting
In shared web hosting, multiple websites share the same server and resources. It is cost-effective but can lead to slower performance if one site uses excessive resources.
2. Virtual private server (VPS) hosting
In VPS hosting, websites share a physical server but have dedicated resources and a separate operating environment. VPS hosting plans offer better performance and more control than shared hosting.
3. Dedicated hosting
The dedicated server hosting model devotes an entire web server to a single website. Dedicated servers provide maximum performance and control, but they are more expensive.
4. Cloud hosting
Cloud hosting plans are a network of virtual and physical servers that host websites. This setup offers scalable resources and high reliability because if a web server goes down, a cloud hosting service can offload traffic to a different server that it operates.
5. Managed hosting
A managed hosting provider handles server management tasks, including maintenance, updates, and security. This arguably makes managed hosting the best web hosting service for those who prefer not to manage the technical aspects of their brand’s website.
6. Reseller hosting
Reseller hosting plans allow individuals or companies to resell hosting services under their brand. This model may appeal to web developers or agencies that offer web hosting plans as part of a larger suite of services. Shopify is one such example. When you sell merchandise through Shopify, you get a website builder and hosting for your ecommerce store, along with many other services tailored to the retail industry.
Features to look for in web hosting services
- Reliability
- Scalability
- Security features
- Customer support
- Performance and speed
- Ease of use
- Pricing and value
As a business owner, you must ensure your website operates efficiently, remains secure, and provides a positive user experience. Here are seven key features to look for when sorting through the many web hosting services on the market:
Reliability
Look for a hosting provider with a strong reputation for reliability. Consistent server performance is crucial to ensure your website is always accessible. Many providers offer a percentage-based uptime guarantee, such as 99.9%. Higher uptime guarantees are critical for maintaining a professional presence and avoiding lost sales or leads.
Scalability
Your hosting needs may change as your business grows. Choose a hosting service that allows easy upgrades in terms of storage, bandwidth, and other resources. Look for providers that offer many web hosting plans (including shared, VPS, dedicated, and cloud) so you can upgrade without migrating to a different host.
Security features
SSL certificates encrypt data transferred between your website and users. An SSL certificate is essential for protecting sensitive information and building trust. Additionally, regular automated backups ensure you can quickly recover your website in case of data loss or cyberattacks. Proactive security measures such as malware scanning and removal can protect your site from malicious activities.
Customer support
24/7 customer support is crucial—especially if you run an ecommerce site or your website plays a critical role in your business operations. Multiple support options (live chat, phone, email) ensure you can get help in the way that suits you best.
Look for hosting providers with knowledgeable support teams that can assist with technical issues promptly and effectively. Lower-grade website hosts may outsource their customer support to workers who lack the requisite expertise to help you.
Performance and speed
Servers nearer to your target audience may reduce latency and improve loading times. If your customer base mostly resides in the US or Canada, you’ll benefit from North American servers. Alternatively, a content delivery network (CDN) can distribute your website’s content across multiple locations globally, speeding up access for users regardless of their geographic location.
Ensure your hosting plan provides sufficient CPU, RAM, and other resources to handle your site performance and bandwidth needs.
Ease of use
A user-friendly control panel (like cPanel or Plesk) simplifies website management tasks such as setting up email accounts, managing files, and installing applications. Easy-to-use tools will help you quickly make your desired adjustments to your website and then go back to more pressing work. Look for features like one-click installations for popular CMSs (like WordPress), database management tools, and file management capabilities.
Pricing and value
Choose plans sold at affordable prices, and take care to avoid hidden fees. Investigate site renewal rates as they can sometimes increase after the initial sign-up rate. A money-back guarantee allows you to test the hosting service and ensure it meets your needs without a long-term commitment.
Evaluate what the price includes, such as free domain registration, a free SSL certificate, email accounts, and backups. Make sure your hosting plan aligns with the website-building tools you intend to use. For instance, WordPress hosting companies specialize in supporting a WordPress website.
Best web hosting services
Here are a few web hosting providers to consider as you seek the ideal hosting service for your business:
Shopify
Shopify is the best web hosting provider for ecommerce merchants who need an all-in-one retail service.
- Features: User-friendly interface with drag-and-drop store builder, integrated payment processing and SSL certificates, domain registration, mobile-optimized themes, comprehensive analytics, and reporting.
- Advantages: Excellent for building and managing online stores, a wide range of apps and plug-ins to extend functionality, and 24/7 customer support.
- Disadvantages: Limited customization compared to open-source platforms, and more expensive than other providers, since it requires purchase of a Shopify plan.
- Pricing: Tied to Shopify plan tiers, including Basic ($29/month), Shopify ($79/month), and Advanced ($299/month), when purchased as an annual plan.
InMotion Hosting
InMotion Hosting is a strong choice for business-class website solutions based in the US.
- Features: Free domain name and SSL, unlimited bandwidth and disk space, free site migration, 24/7 customer support, and a 90-day money-back guarantee.
- Advantages: High performance, reliable uptime, generous money-back guarantee, and excellent customer support.
- Pricing: Shared hosting plans start at $2.99 per month, with pricier options for more advanced feature sets.
WP Engine
WP Engine offers premium managed WordPress hosting and is great for those who favor WordPress sites.
- Features: Fully managed WordPress hosting, daily backups and automated updates, free CDN and SSL certificate, StudioPress themes included, and 24/7 customer support.
- Advantages: Excellent performance and security, advanced developer tools and features, and attentive customer service.
- Pricing: WP Engine pricing starts at $20/month when you buy a full year upfront.
Bluehost
Bluehost is officially recommended by WordPress, and it pairs well with the content creation software. Its plans allow you to manage multiple websites for a single monthly fee.
- Features: One-click WordPress installation, free domain name for the first year, SSL certificate included, 24/7 customer support, and scalable hosting solutions.
- Advantages: Affordable introductory pricing, good site performance and uptime.
- Pricing: Initial Bluehost pricing starts as low as $2.95 per month for a single site; higher-tier plans cover multiple sites.
SiteGround
SiteGround offers multiple WordPress hosting plans. It’s a strong choice for WordPress users who value customer support and reliability.
- Features: Managed WordPress hosting, daily backups, free CDN and SSL, advanced security features, and 24/7 customer support.
- Advantages: Excellent customer service, including live chat support.
- Pricing: SiteGround hosting plans start at $2.99 per month and come with free website migration.
HostGator
HostGator is a great budget option for all your sites, particularly for building a personal website.
- Features: Free website builder, one-click installs for popular applications, unmetered bandwidth, 24/7 customer support, and a 45-day money-back guarantee.
- Advantages: Affordable with a user-friendly control panel.
- Pricing: HostGator pricing varies widely, depending on which options you select; the cheapest option is a shared hosting plan that runs $3.75 per month.
DreamHost
DreamHost embraces comprehensive and flexible hosting. Its pricing structure is more transparent than some competitors, making it a strong choice for hosting a WordPress site.
- Features: One-click installer, managed WordPress hosting, free domain and privacy protection, free SSL certificate, automated backups, and 24/7 customer support.
- Advantages: Transparent pricing with no higher renewal rates, and a 97-day money-back guarantee.
- Pricing: DreamHost prices start at $2.95 per month when you pay for a full year upfront.
A2 Hosting
A2 Hosting stands out for its emphasis on speed and performance.
- Features: Turbo servers for faster loading times, free site migration, robust money-back guarantee, free SSL and SSD storage, and 24/7 customer support.
- Advantages: Excellent speed and performance, developer-friendly options, and an anytime money-back guarantee.
- Pricing: A2 Hosting prices run between $2.99 and $14.99 per month when you purchase a year in advance.
Best web hosting services FAQ
What is the difference between web hosting and domain hosting?
Web hosting involves storing website files on a server to make them accessible online, while domain hosting involves managing the domain name that users type into their browser to access your website.
Does Shopify offer web hosting?
Yes, Shopify offers web hosting as part of its comprehensive ecommerce platform, which also includes a website builder and myriad retail tools to manage your ecommerce business.
How do you choose the right web hosting service?
To choose the right web hosting plan, evaluate your needs, such as whether you require a site builder, unlimited disk space, or specific features like full root access for advanced customization of an existing website. Additionally, ensure the service can efficiently host websites and meet your scalability requirements.
