Resources : Picking your host
There are a lot of hosting companies out there, many of them promising everything under the sun for a too-good-to-be-true price. How can you tell if a prospective host will be up to par?
Once you've narrowed down your list to hosts that meet your core requirements (e.g., enough disk space, right price range), here are some important things to keep in mind:
Reliability
Uptime
A respectable web host should have rates of 95% or better. That means that websites stored on their servers are down less than 5% of the time. For example, Launcharoo sites currently average 99.998% uptime.
Backups
In case of server crash, backups allow a host to restore customer websites easily and quickly. Backups should be free and automatic.
History
People say "time will tell" for a reason! Established companies can point to a track record of successes much easier than a startup. At the same time, because they are eager for customers, startups can offer an enthusiasm, dedication and immediacy that older companies may not provide.
Happy Customers
Statistics
If asked, a prospetive host should be able to tell you approximately how many customers they have and how quickly they respond to customer inquiries.
In Their Own Words
If available, see how your host ranks on hosting search websites and review testimonials (there or on the host's website). Take testimonials with a grain of salt unless they can be verified (e.g., domain being hosted actually points to host's servers and/or valid email address is given). Also, if your host runs a bulletin board, read it to get a sense of typical customer concerns/praises.
Money Back Guarantee
If a customer becomes dissatisfied with their host due to technical difficulties, a good host will refund their money promptly. That's why Launcharoo offers a money back guarantee!
Professional
No Gimmicks
Website is clean and easy to use; information is simple, direct and easy to understand. Imagery and layout does not confuse or unduly manipulate a customer (e.g., violently flashing ads; auto-generating pop-up windows).
Responsive
Quick, thoughtful responses and comprehensive resources are provided in all communications. Website is updated regularly and has little to no broken links.
High Quality
In addition to a professional website and corporate communications, the technology behind the service (hardware and software that comprises the host's offerings) is of the highest quality and constantly monitored for both security and administration.
Launcharoo is dedicated to providing excellence in all these areas and more! Sign up now and get top-notch, affordable web hosting today!
