 Knowing
all the features needed in a website pays off because the price varies
according to the features provided. At the same time, many features may
remain unused and some critical features may not be available. Generally,
the following are the main factors that should be considered:
Type
of Site: An commerce site may require SSL encryption and a merchant
account. Whereas, a blog or online forum will benefit from PHP or Perl/CGI
and database systems like MySQL, Microsoft SQL or Oracle SQL. Windows based
hosting is usually more expensive and hosts ASP, .NET and MS SQL. Unix
based hostings are inexpensive and provides PHP, Perl/CGI, FrontPage and
limited ASP.
Storage
Requirements: Database enabled ecommerce website or discussion
forum usually requires high amounts of storage. For a static website, the
storage may not be a problem. The future growth of the website also should
be taken into consideration.
Bandwidth
Requirement: For an entertainment based site or online forum
it is better to have a high bandwidth. If bandwidth is not considered and
you sign up with an inexpensive web host, later you may end up paying extra
for bandwidth only.
Access
Mechanism: For static web pages, FrontPage extension will enable
you to update the site right from FrontPage or DreamWeaver. File Transfer
Protocol (FTP) is usually provided but Telnet and SSH access may cost more.
Mail
Protocol: Usually SMTP/POP3 and web based email system is provided.
Secure Access Protocol or IMAP usually costs more.
Price: Inexpensive
hosting services may not have customer support and may have more down
time. Telephone support, guaranteed uptime and backups
will also determine prices. The host with more than one data center could
be more expensive but can guarantee uptime.
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