In today’s digital age, having a website or app is vital for businesses. To be successful, you’ll need an efficient and reliable web host. However, with the multitude of options out there, it can be challenging to determine which one is best for you. To help you better understand how to choose a web host for your software, here are 10 things you need to know.

How to Choose a Web Host

1. Type and Needs 

Each type of website or web app has specific requirements, so you’ll need to know which one to build. Web hosts have various features and limitations, and it’s important to identify what resources are important to have.

Most providers charge based on storage and bandwidth. So, it’s vital to estimate the traffic you expect and the volume of data you’ll require. Check their tools and consider your capacity needs to ensure that they specialize in your particular function. The right host will have the solutions needed to create the software you want.  

2. Server Types

Understand the features of each server type to know which one can help you achieve your business goals.  

Shared hosting is great for first-timers and small to medium businesses, but your performance will depend on the load others put onto the server. It restricts the programs you run, limits your access to the server’s capabilities, and controls your uploading capacities.

Virtual Private Server (VPS) provides better performance, larger portions, and greater control. You’ll need to have basic knowledge of server maintenance and management for this type, but it offers more flexibility for fast-growing businesses.

Dedicated hosting is for high-performing sites. It can configure their needs and have complete control over the architecture. It’s a little more expensive with advanced features, but the value is more than worth the cost.

Cloud servers run on the giant public cloud. They can have any configuration requirements, they scale seamlessly, and they can handle tremendous traffic surges. Cloud servers are usually more convenient as nothing needs to be built or moved.

3. Costs

In the conversation of how to choose a web host, cost always comes into play. Some can cost a few bucks per month, and others offer discounts for long-term sign-ups.

Here are some important things to remember:

• Allocate budget for additional themes or plugins and services beyond the basic level.
• Free hosting may seem striking, but the values from reputable providers are worth the cost.
• Limited offers and attractive sign-up deals may end up costing more in the long run.
• Renewal fees shouldn’t cost more than the sign-up rate. Also, see how often you need to renew your subscription.
• Consider website building and hosting bundles if these will support your business objectives. Read the fine print of contracts so you don’t miss provisions about hidden fees and obligations.
• Get everything in writing in your service agreement.

4. Plan Flexibility

You might start with a shared server to test things out. But as you grow, you’ll need advanced resources, so, choose a provider that’s flexible and can easily upgrade the plan based on your needs. It’s recommended to go with a host that offers a trial period so you can terminate your subscription without penalties and even possibly receive a refund.  

5. Security and Compliance 

The provider should offer a secure infrastructure that performs updates, patches, and security protocols to counter possible cyberattacks. It should handle confidential information, have guaranteed SSL certificates, and provide privacy, critical security, and data integrity for both the software and users. It should clarify how they handle collected data and have advanced internal security measures.  

6. Reliability

Though no host can guarantee 100% uptime, go for one that can assure at 99.9%. Be meticulous about their performance features as this impacts your software and business.  

Accidents and cyberattacks can happen even with countermeasures, so your host must have easy backup processes that can restore your website in such events. Opt for automated daily backups or one-click on-demand backups for added convenience.

7. Domains

Choose a host that offers to register and renew your domain as part of the package. It should make it easy to acquire and manage, or better yet, can offer unlimited domains. It also provides associated email addresses for your domains so customers can contact you.

Another recommendation is to own your domain name so you can conveniently change providers if needed and own any acquired SEO benefits.

8. Ease-of-Use

Hosting service should be accessed via standard browsers. Research on their flexibility with the advanced requirements you might need. It should allow you to update your content, track your visitors, and manage multiple tasks. Having a control panel that’s easy to navigate can make a big difference when managing your software so you won’t depend on the support team. 

9. Support and Customer Service 

Having a responsive and reliable customer service team is essential in establishing a strong relationship with your host. They must have several contact methods and be reachable 24/7. This will guarantee assistance anytime, and in return, you can address your web visitors’ needs.

10.  Think Ahead and Long-Term

Choose a host that’s in it with you for the long haul — one who can scale your software and help grow your business.

It should have features for your requirements, provide the right server type, and offer reasonable packages. It should also assure customer safety and data protection and have quick solutions in times of crises. Ease-of-use and reliable support are a must!

Building a new website or app is indeed a huge undertaking as there are a lot of things to consider. LSM can help. We offer smart strategies and advanced technologies to drive business results. From software solutions to web development, we can help grow your business online. Contact LSM today to learn more about our software development services.