Hosting
Every website has different needs, and therefore will have different requirements of a web host. Before selecting a web host it is important to understand all the different kinds of web hosting options, so the needs of your website can be satisfied. Hosting services generally fall under the following hosting categories:
Free Web Hosting
Being the cheapest option available, free hosting has its drawbacks. Free hosts often require that their advertisements are included on pages and impose limits on storage space and bandwidth. Businesses tend to avoid free hosts, as they prefer more flexible and stable services.
Shared Web Hosting
A shared web host is generally described as a server that holds a large number of websites. The number of sites that fits on the server depends on the company, cost and the hardware that makes up the machine. It is a reliable option for business and personal websites as it has more flexibility and lower costs than running your own host.
Reseller Web Hosting
While not a common form of web hosting, reseller hosting allows clients to become their own host. One example would be a web design site that hosts sites for its clients. The only real difference between shared and reseller hosting is the size of the company.
Virtual Dedicated Server
Apart from how resources are allotted, virtual dedicated servers are almost identical to shared hosts. With shared hosts, all clients use the same CPU and bandwidth, whereas with virtual dedicated servers, clients set their own CPU power and bandwidth.
Dedicated Hosting Service
The user has full control over the server and is the only user. Generally, there are only two types of dedicated hosting options: managed or unmanaged. Managed hosting has support staff on hand for the client whereas unmanaged means the client is responsible for all technical support, and thus is generally less expensive.