Which Hosting Platform Is Right For You?
When it comes to developing a blog or website, you have a number of options to consider. You can purchase a dedicated server from a reputable web host, or you can opt for a free web host that provides you with limited features. Once you make this decision, the next step is to choose the right platform for creating your blog or website.
Pricing
The pricing for a dedicated server is usually based on the number of monthly visits your website receives, with the average price ranging between £3 and £5 per month. If you plan to use your website to generate sales or become a central part of your business, then a dedicated server is a cost-effective option. You should also factor in the cost of server storage, as it will depend on the size of your website’s databases whether you need a small or large instance.
When selecting a free web host, you need to consider how much you want to spend on hosting costs each month. The pricing plans of most free web hosts are quite affordable if you plan to use your site for personal or small business purposes. If you plan to grow your website or use it to generate revenue, then it is advisable to look for a more expensive plan.
Features
The features offered by a web host can vary, but you should look for a web host that provides features that are beneficial to your site’s performance. Some of these features include free domain registration, free backups, free domain privacy, free plugins, etc. You should also try to find a web host that offers 24/7 support via live chat, email, or phone calls.
When choosing a free host, you need to bear in mind that additional features can potentially increase your hosting costs. Whether you need a simple blog or a sophisticated eCommerce store, a free host should be able to provide you with all you need to get started. If you have access to a reliable internet connection, then feature-rich web hosts are available at no cost to you. Remember: you get what you pay for.
Operating System (OS)
The operating system (OS) of your web host determines a number of things, including the performance of your site. Most web hosts support the three most popular operating systems (OSes): Windows, macOS, and Linux. Each operating system has its perks, but if you are unfamiliar with Linux or macOS, then it may be best to pick Windows.
If you pick Windows, then your web host will provide you with a control panel where you can install and uninstall various software, modify system settings, and monitor your server’s performance. If you are looking for absolute control over your hosting experience, then Windows is the operating system to go for. Keep in mind: not all web hosts offer the same level of control, so make sure you read reviews before committing.
Database
A database is a collection of data that can be organized and accessed via a software program. A database is useful for storing information such as emails, names, addresses, social media profiles, etc. The most popular databases for WordPress are MySQL, MongoDB, and PostgreSQL. Each one has its perks, but if you are looking for absolute control over your database, then MySQL is the clear choice as it is the most commonly used.
If you store your blog’s content in a database, you can benefit from the many features provided by WordPress itself, as well as a number of premium plugins that can enhance the functionality of your blog, e.g.: Jetpack, Gutenberg, etc. The most popular database-driven themes are WooCommerce, Shopify, and Magento. Each one has its perks, but if you are unfamiliar with any of these platforms, then it may be best to opt for WordPress itself.
Security
Your website or blog’s security is of the utmost importance, as this will determine how much you can trust the people who have access to your personal information (e.g., your username and password). If you are looking for a free host with a decent level of security, then you should look no further as most reputable web hosts provide a secure platform where you can install a WordPress dashboard and install various plugins that can enhance the security of your blog or website.
A few examples of secure and trusted plugins are Better Password, Bulletproof Security, and Login Captcha. Not all free hosts are created equal, so make sure you do your research before handing over your personal information to anyone.
Additional Considerations
Whether you opt for a dedicated server or a free host, there are other considerations you need to make. For example, how much control do you have over the look of your blog or website? Do you want a free domain or do you want to purchase your own domain and pay for web hosting? Do you want to use your blog or website to generate revenue or is it just a hobby?
If you are just starting out and don’t have a lot of money to spend on these items, consider looking for a free blog or website that you can utilize to its full potential. You can use platforms like WordPress to create a professional-looking blog or website in no time at all, and at the end of the day, it’s all about having a good experience while creating your blog or website.