Choosing The Right Web Host Company

Utilizing websites and blogs is a smart and easy way to engage your business’ targeted audiences. As content becomes more key in digital engagement, the value of creating awesome, relevant content often draws in much of a marketer’s focus, leaving little attention to other website-related decisions. Important decisions, such as choosing the right web host, end up on the back burner. You’re probably asking, “The right web host? Aren’t all web hosts the same?”. If this is your opinion on web hosts, think again.

Selecting a web host without real consideration can negatively impact your business through:

• Security issues and malware attacks
  There is no perfect web host. However, a solid web hosting company will back your data up to a remote server in the event there is a security issue or attack. They will also offer assistance with technical support, maintenance and updates.
• Server downtime and loss of leads/revenue
  One of the most common complaints my clients have about their former web hosts is that there was too much downtime. When your site is down, you’re losing out on potential leads, customers, and — if you’re an online store — revenue.
• Plummeting SEO Rankings
  Any marketer knows that a primary goal behind content marketing is to rank high in search results so customers can better find you. Repeated downtime and slow loading websites can quickly drop your SEO.

How Do I Find The Best Web Host For My Needs?

I’m so glad you asked! It’s absolutely crucial to dedicate time to researching web host companies in order to find the perfect fit for your business’ needs. When looking at hosting companies in the web space, consider the following:

• Types and Scalability of Hosting Packages and Plans
  A great web hosting company offers a scalable variety of hosting plans on both Shared, Dedicated and Managed solutions.  Whether you’re a start-up just launching its new website or an established large organization with robust web traffic, your hosting plan should cater to your current needs with the scalability to grow as your business grows.
• Customer Service and Response Time
  If your company doesn’t support an in-house tech team or server admin, customer service from your web host is a must. Think about it – the internet never sleeps. Your website or blog needs to be supported as such. While a hosting company’s hours may not be 24/7, ask them about their response time, the knowledge base of their support staff, and how support is reached.
• Uptime Track Record & Client Testimonials
  The hosting company you eventually choose should have a proven track record, positive client testimonials and should take every precaution to maximize uptime. Be sure to take the time to reach out to your web team and other companies for their recommendations. Do your homework.
• Your Company’s Budget Shouldn’t Dictate Your Options
  Remember, you get what you pay for and web hosting is no exception. A great example involves a previous client paying $12/month for their hosting plan. While the price tag was lovely, the extensive downtime and lack of technical support was anything but helpful. Assessing your website’s needs, potential traffic and the desired level of support should be considered first before using your budget as a filter.

Keeping these points in mind, you will be well on your way to finding the perfect fit between your website and a web hosting company. WDG, as one of DC’s premier creative agencies, has extensive experience in working and partnering with great hosting companies. Some of our favorite hosts include Blackmesh, WordPress VIP, WPEngine, and RackSpace. If you’re interested in learning about our partners or have questions about our own web services, get in touch with our team!