In the internet jungle, it is very easy to get lost, when it comes to deciding which web hosting company to choose or which kind of web hosting option to go for. Should one go for a dedicated web hosting? Is a shared web hosting option ideal? Will a Web Hosting company provide the key to success or a Reseller web hosting will suffice?
Therefore, it is a good idea to understand what one wants and also what are the services available and how effective they are.
Knowing the difference between a dedicated hosting website and a shared hosting website is imperative. The first is a sole domain which belongs exclusively to the business or individual. The entity has total control over the management of the website, the software used and the luxury of a broad bandwidth. This comes at a higher cost, but if the business is growing, then the dedicated web hosting is the right path. Usually big business prefers to choose this option, thus getting more mileage and returns on the investment. This service is provided by a regular web service provider.
A shared hosting on the other hand is a domain shared by many players. That means that many small websites may be sharing the same IP (internet protocol) address. It is also possible that the main IP is linked to multiple virtual network lines each with a different IP address, which in reality is linked to the main IP hub. For a small business or individual, shared hosting may be apt and economical.
The service is usually provided by a Reseller, who purchases one or more domains and break each up of them and markets them to many companies or individual. In other words, the reseller does not own or control the servers, links, networks and DNS of the website. They are like middlemen. Ironically a reseller may charge more or less than the parent company for the same set of services provided. Also, if a shared site crashes, there is nothing that he can do for you directly or immediately.
However, there is another side to this option. There exist certain software and internet management tools that enable the smooth functioning of shared web hosting. GUI control panels allow the website to reap the benefits of reseller web hosting option. Software such as Plesk, Direct Admin, CPanel, H-Sphere and Ensim help create and maintain the shared domain and allows the user to monitor. The other benefit is that small websites do not use the entire bandwidth and sharing it allows optimum use if internet space. Apart from being economical, if in the hands of an efficient service provider, it minimizes the security and connectivity problems faced by websites.
The key is to constantly monitor your website and know when to move to a dedicated web host service. A check on the speed and security; need to expand business and efficiency of the service provider will be the deciding factors for shifting services.
