If you own or want a web site you have to go through the complicated maze of choosing a web host for your domain. There are as many as 10,000 different companies out there. The host company will store your HTML files and images and 'deliver' them to your site visitors and so determine how reliable your web site will be.

Here are a few things to keep in mind before making the decision (adapted from an article at www.cnet.com):

1. Be realistic. Don't expect 24/7 service or maximum uptime with a super cheap hosting provider. Paying an extra $35 per month is well worth it if it means you don't lose customers because of an inaccessible web site. You get what you pay for … in most cases.

2. Local doesn't necessarily mean better. Most local companies are smaller, have less support technicians, have restrictions, and provide less automated technical support.

3. Keep track of all usernames and passwords. Having your domain registration details and domain hosting details will make changes in the future much less painful.

4. Consider the source. Researching your options on the Web is always a good idea, but be careful whose advice you take. 3rd party web sites that rank web hosts may not be impartial. Additionally, hosting offers that you receive via junk mail are likely less than reliable.

5. Ask around. The best source for the inside skinny on web hosts is other folks like you. Post questions on forums (http://groups.google.com) and find out what hosting service others are using.

6. Talk to the company. Even when looking for a low-cost host, it pays to call and talk to a real person to ask questions, clarify offerings, and find out about pricing. After all, if they don't pick up the phone to make a sale, how likely are they to do it when you have a problem?

Having a good solid web host allows you to focus on your business and customers - and that is ultimately the goal. Who wants to be on the phone talking with tech support?

If you have additional questions or would like advice on a particular host company you are considering, drop me an email.

-Doug DeVries
Equine-Design.com
doug@equine-design.com