Step 3: Choose a Web Host
Thousands of Web hosting companies exist on the Web, and they're all ready and able to host your site. How do you choose one?
Your first thought may be to work with a well-known firm, one that's been hosting sites for years with few problems experienced by Web site owners. That's a good start, and there are other hosts you may not know exist that provide great service just like the well-known ones to also consider.
First, let me explain "Web hosting." It's the process by which a specialized technology company broadcasts your Web site to anyone who types your Web address into an Internet browser. I'm sure there's a more-glamorous definition, but a simplified version is all that's needed here.
You want a firm that provides:
- Space to create one or 100 Web pages within your site
- Multiple Email addresses in your account
- Templates that make creating a site quick and easy
- The option to add a blog that complements your site
- A shopping cart to transact sales
- Satisfactory service
- The ability to make changes to your site as often as required
- Plus more perks that make easy work of maintaining your Internet space.
As you search for a Web host, remember that services are just as important as cost. The yearly price for hosting runs the gamut, but are the prices on an apple-to-apple basis? Does the fee include a shopping cart for Ecommerce, or is that option an additional price?
If necessary, create a grid that documents each host's name, services, pricing, and a column for extra notes. From there, you'll be able to make a smart decision before selecting a host.
In Step 2, I mentioned that domain registration companies offer additional services as part of the upselling process. Some of those services include Web hosting. Now you can return to their site to consider the registrant as a host. Review the multiple plans. Ask colleagues for other recommendations.
Read pros and cons on the Internet about hosting companies, keeping in mind that one person's negative experience is not representative of everyone hosted by that firm.
Some Web hosts have demonstrations or tutorials showing the ease of working with templates and uploading your Web site to their servers, the final step that allows everyone in the world to see, experience, and order from (if Ecommerce is set up) your site.
I've mentioned the word "templates" twice. A template is a customized set of pages that let you add text and photos. Templates make easy work of creating your site and launching it on the Internet.
There's no need to add colors or columns or anything else to create attractive pages. The page you're reading right now was created with a template. All I did was add photos and text. That's part of the package you want from a Web hosting company.
Hopefully, you're pleased with the chosen Web host, but just in case you want to make doubly sure about the initial relationship, sign up for a one-year plan the first time around.
One year ends quickly, and you can decide whether or not to continue with their hosting service. It's easy to migrate to another company if the service is not great or if another host has a better plan. I've done that with my sites and experienced absolutely no problems.
After choosing a domain name, it's best to continue moving forward by selecting a Web host and getting your site up and running as quickly as possible. The world is waiting to see who you are and buy what you sell.
Next: Step 4 - Get Your Staff Involved
