How To Find a Reliable Web Hosting Company
Thanks for visiting our WorldVentures site.
Making a catalog of your entire web hosting requirements is the first thing you should do before looking for a trustworthy web-hosting corporation. Check details like the necessary area needed, the total mails received, the space set aside for relocations, if you will need a database or shopping basket. Think about including chat aspects, make a forum or take a commercial account. All this is necessary, as, for a web host to be trustworthy, your requirements have to top the priority list. The following list is about the characteristics that a web host needs to have:
Dependability and Uptime
Find out how much Uptime your web host guarantees for your site, for greater Uptime means greater accessibility. Certain web hosts guarantee Uptimes of nearly 99.5%! Enquire about the hardware, safeguards and the connection stability, all of which minimizes downtime.
Pricing
Your web host should charge you a reasonable price and offer you flexible ways of making the payment. Look out for hidden costs, setup fees etc. But setup fees are now charged by most major companies to cover their costs for having quality technical support.
Bandwidth
Bandwidth is a very important component is increasing or depleting the trade developments. If the host gives an undersized bandwidth then you pay more if you download more than the limit. However, many hosts will give more bandwidth at around the same costs. Select carefully. Don’t be fooled by any promises of ‘Unlimited Bandwidth’. It does not exist. Have a limit of at least 1GB of data flow. This will let more interchanges as the site becomes popular.
Storage Space of Disk
Space is another crucial factor as far as growth is concerned. You will find web hosts offering you 20 to 50 MB space while others offering 100 MB space, at again roughly a similar price. Go for the ones offering 100 MB and greater, for otherwise you will end up paying $5 to $10 more for every 10 MB additional space.
Server Speed-Velocity of the Server
Before zeroing on your web host, check the server speed. Use a free tool like Net Mechanic to gauge the access speed for all facets of access like connect time, download time, DNS lookup, network speed and absence of timeouts. The download time figures will tell you how fast or reliable the server is. Run a speed check on all the prospective web hosts that you decide, both in peak hours and non-peak hours.
Fundamental Characteristics
Select such a web host that offers a wide range of characteristics from the very beginning. You may be charged extra for features that some web hosts attach every month.
Multiple Domain Names
If in case you use more than one domain name, find out if your web hosting account will allow multiple hosting and if they will charge more for this service. Some web hosts do not charge anything extra for multiple domain names.
Email Auto responders and Mail Forwarding Accounts-Mail Auto- Responders and Forward Accounts
Make sure that your web hosting account permits forwarding of emails. It becomes extremely efficient and easy if all your emails from many of your websites are forwarded to your ISP service. Without logging into each and every one of your accounts, you can simultaneously read all the mail. Autoresponder is another time saving device that also acts as a great marketing tool. It is a program that sends any of your wanted pre-written messages to anyone who mails you. You can stay connected and increase your publicity while drastically reducing your own workload with this program.
List for Mailing
See if the web-hosting corporation will let you make mailing lists. Such a list or an online, mail based conversation assembly will be useful if you disperse the ezone for marketing strategies and endorsement episodes.
File Transfer Protocol or FTP
This is an assistance offered by all hosting corporations. It is a main tool and lets fast and competent file flow from one site to another.
Setting up Anonymous FTP accounts
This service gives you a FTP website that lets users have accessibility to download the required data and files. These nameless mail accounts can get you good money if people make huge downloads of free e-books or software and so on. The best advantage is that if the Net service or phone corporation drops work while file transfers or downloads, you can still keep downloading from wherever you stopped as soon as you reconnect.
Using a Secured or SSL Server
You have to use a very secure server if your trade deals with financial exchanges through the site. You may require meeting extra web hosting expenses for the service but the lack of a secure server can prevent clients from coming. You need a safe server like SSL server, which lets data in a structure to be figured out before transferring it to the server from the browser. This is especially important in cases where orders are taken and personal data like card numbers are exchanged.
CGI Scripts-Scripts of CGI
CGI scripts are usually used to obtain information from any form and then this information is conveniently sent to your email account. Decent web hosting companies are bound to have a library of CGI scripts which can be used by people hosting their sites. But the best web hosting accounts will allow you to add your own desired CGI scripts and use them. Go for web hosts which allow you this provision, for even though you might think you don’t need to use CGI scripts that much, you might need them later.
Highly Developed Features
See if the web host has developed characteristics like RealAudio/Video, Java Applets, Database Access, Password Protection and PHP so that your site may use them if required.
Backup-Support
Everyday, your web directory will most certainly be backed up by almost every web hosting service. It is unthinkable nowadays to not provide this basic service. To ensure that your website is not lost in the confusion, certain web hosts provide you with unnecessary and unimportant backups.
Security and Assurance
Since there are many web hosts present it can be problematic choosing and believing in the right one. Services that give plans like a money back strategy can be helpful if you are displeased with the functioning. Hosts giving out such plans are also more competent and trustworthy.
Being Flexible
A stagnant web hosting service can be the worst bane for your website and your business. It too needs to grow along with your website and business. So if you desire to include newer features like ecommerce, it should be able to upgrade and provide you with facilities like shopping cart, storefront or a merchant account. The web host should have constant upgrades an should be ready to provide you services like more web space, or your own dedicated server or even a forum.
July 29, 2008 by Matt Hedges
Filed under Web Hosting
Secure Web Hosting With SSL Certificates
Thanks for visiting our WorldVentures site.
“SSL certificates” are used by many businesses on line to create a secure atmosphere for their clients. These applications formerly known as Secured Socket Layers encrypt data so that information can be stored and used with confidence online. With fear of hacking and stealing of vital information on everyone’s mind this type of security is vital to your business. Without it your information is easily available to others online. SSL protocol uses a Certificate Authority to provide third party security for both transaction parties. It is a well-used technology that is proven and the industry standard for top security online.
Websites are most commonly used for business purposes. Sites like Amazon, Dell, and Ebay are shining examples of the impact e-commerce has made on our society. They all use a rapid exchange of confidential information in order to transact such business. By using other payment gateway sites such as Paypal, they collect private information to charge credit cards, as well as personal addresses and more. This data would be vulnerable to internet hackers resulting in severe damage without proper protection.
Without SSL protection it is easy to manipulate secured data. While the technology that SSL uses to secure data is not absolute, it restricts the ability of hacking almost completely. E-commerce businesses that store valuable data on their customers use SSL certificates exclusively in their everyday exchanges. It is so popular that customers have learned to look for the encryption sign as a symbol of their assurance to security. When they see a change in their URL to HTTPS:// they feel safe in using the service.
There are manifold benefits of SSL certification installation which a professional web host can provide:
* Customer Confidence in SSL certification
Customers feel good when they see the signs that indicate an SSL secured website. These signals include the ‘https’ in their browser’s URL and the SSL site seal as well as the secure locked padlock next to the URL. They gain a feeling of relief and enjoy stress free shopping with the understanding of security protecting their private banking and other information. Your host understands these requirements and targets your exact needs. Your many customers that wish to purchase products online need that security to feel comfortable doing so feeling your site is reliable and authentic.
* Keeps your Customer’s Information Confidential:
The measure of your web host’s success is the ability to install SSL certificates properly. The technology of encryption is measured by bytes. Your webhost will have knowledge of that for sure. If your web host can provide the necessary SSL certificates your customers information will be secure and your reputation will be stronger for it.
* Fast certification installation
Your webhost can get your certification up online in a short amount of time. They have the personnel and knowledge to understand the complex needs of installing SSL certificates and the resources available to complete the process. If you plan on going it alone and installing your own certificate you need the knowledge to complete the act.
* Helps in meeting regulatory requirements
Your web host caters to its clientele or web site owner in a variety of fields from finance to health care. There are several companies, however, that need to know their government requirements in the area of protection where confidential information is concerned. These regulations are exactly what SSL Certificates provide the extra security for.
The right web host for SSL certification installation:
* Web-based User Friendly Control Panel
Everything you do on your website will go through your control panel. It enables the management of your server. Make sure that you find a host that you feel comfortable with using their interface.
* Web hosts should provide dedicated IP address
The host should be able to provide a dedicated IP address which is essential for secured socket layers and Virtual FTP accounts.
* Watch out for hidden charges
The web hosts have a typical tendency to add hidden charges. After the installation is complete they include that in the list of charges. Such hosts, who don’t provide a clear estimation, should always be avoided.
* Compatibility with a variety of browsers
Chances are good your customers will not use the same browser as everybody else. Your host should provide installation of certificates that work on all popular browsers.
* Proper instructions
The web host should posses ample knowledge of all the technicalities related to SSL installation. He/she should be able to guide website owners who are ignorant about exactly which pages will have to be encrypted and which will not. SSL provides an option to turn it on when required and off when not in use.
* Shared SSL certificate
Another type of SSL certificate is the shared SSL given to authentic web hosts. This web host will install SSL certificates for their customers the same way dedicated certificates are installed. The difference is this type of SSL certificate is linked with the Secure Site Seal issued to domain owners. This type of SSL certificate allows top-level hosts to secure their own information. This requires the special expertise of a web host.
Installing an SSL certificate
Step 1:
The domain where the SSL certificate would be installed should have its own dedicated IP address. The Web host has knowledge of it as they will be handling the entire process.
Step 2:
Before the installation process of SSL certificate begins, the web hosts checks if owner has a Certificate Signing request generated or not.
Step 3:
When a web host opens the control panel they look for the ‘Install SSL certificate and Setup the Domain, and click on it. A window appears with the wizard to install the certificate.
Step 4:
In that wizard, they paste the certificate which is obtained from SSL vendor. Note: This is not the same as that of CSR
Step 5:
When the next box opens a Domain section appears. This is where the SSL is applied. In another field labeled ‘user’ the control panel name is added followed by the dedicated IP address to install the certificate.
Step 6:
Finally to end the installation process the host pastes the RSA private key and it’s complete. Note: The process may vary from host to host. The above is a general scenario to provide a description of the process.
July 29, 2008 by Matt Hedges
Filed under Web Hosting
Choosing a Web Host: About Web Hosting and More
Thanks for visiting our WorldVentures site.
The importance of computer is surely on increase and as a result of which, each and every aspect related to computer is of paramount significance at this point of time. It is often found that people are in need of some information regarding this, especially when it is about a website or the world of Internet. This is a common need and goes without saying that having created a website, one is supposed to go to the world of Internet. Once you are in the realm of Internet, it endows you with three alternative options to choose from. The first two options are simple and well known. In fact, if they are placed in an order, they stand like- either hosting the site on your own computer or hosting the site on a server. These are the first two options and the third option is that of employing anyone else to live up to the job of hosting the site for you. To put it in a straightforward manner, the first two options that are talked about are very useful and practical. But, the issue is that these options are perfect if either you have fast connections or if this is all about business related sites. This is not something easy because such options can’t be devoid of your vigilant eye to supervise. Moreover, this can only be done successfully if you do have a fast connection facility.
Opting for a web hosting company would be a great option to fall back on. The web hosts host your website on their server and you are given access to it via FTP for the purpose of uploading files on your website. Web hosting services are available for free, for a fee, and also a dedicated web hosting.
You need a huge cost to go for a dedicated web hosting and is mainly suitable for websites which is expected to have a good number of hits. The web host company hosts your website on their server, while using their connection.
The actual scenario is that paid web-hosting has certain advantages.
Some free hosts do not place their banner on your website, yet in most cases the services are not good enough. Some free web hosts have brilliant features but the tech-support is unreliable! For a small site, or if you are just venturing into this field go for a free web-host in the initial stages.
As far as the free web-hosting is concerned, they lack in the aspect of reliability notwithstanding having some brilliant features. Honestly speaking, their service is not up to the mark, although, there are some free hosts who do not put their banner on your website. You can consider these options if you have a small site or you are a beginner in this field. The web-hosts provide you with certain features and a list of such features is given below. This is not certainly an extensive list. Let me put it in this manner that in order to get your site hosted, you are expected to know about certain terms.
URL/ Address- If you have a domain name, it’s all right. Otherwise, you are in need of having a URL address. This is very important.
Space- As far as the aspect of space is concerned, it needs to be said that usually a space of 5MB is enough for a small site and this much space is perfect for over a hundred pages. Normally, what happens is that the graphics occupy a space of about 35KB. Having said this, one must know that it requires a space of 15-20MB in case of a graphics intensive site or one featuring downloads.
Bandwidth/Transfer: This is calculated monthly, and is based on the total number of files which are transferred from your site in the month. This is where unlimited bandwidth kind of helps, since you need at least 1GB space per month for a normal website.
CGI-BIN- This is of paramount significance as far as your dealing with interactive scripts like guest-books, counters is concerned. It provides you with the facility of remote hosting also bearing the banners from the site that live up to the task of presenting them.
SSI: This is a special function which channelizes the server for inclusion of a given thing on your webpage. It could be text, or any other thing.
My SQL/PHP/ASP Support- if you desire to maintain a database on your site you need database formats like these. ASP generates key sites often.
Technical Support: Free hosts do not provide such a good technical support as paid hosts do. As you might know, monitoring the websites is constantly required, and upon encountering any problem, you might need technical support from the host, so this bit is an important aspect of a web host.
E- mail- It is always wise to have a POP3 mail service as it lets you receive any message from your web-host before they send it to you. Actually, it is very common to have such mails provided you have a domain name.
FrontPage Extensions- If you have Microsoft Frontpage for modifying your website, you need such extensions. Front page items are also possible to be had in your site.
SSL/Secure Server: This is needed for ensuring safe facilities for ordering from your website.
The Aspect of Statistics/ Log Files- This is responsible to let you view the usages i.e. the downloaded files and the visited pages.
FTP Accounts- The users are able to download files from an area of your site with the aid of an anonymous FTP. As far as the FTP accounts are concerned, they let you upload files on your website.
About Paid-hosting: most free web-hosting can be upgraded to ad-free hosting for a minimal monthly fee and usually with better technical support. So you can search out a better web-host and dump those unwanted advertisements. It usually costs $5 to $75 per month, as compared to the dedicated servers which cost around $150 per month.
However, if you are opting for paid web host services, then you must ask them about a list of all the websites which they host. By doing this, you can contact webmasters of those sites and get first-hand information about the web host. Also, enquire about the technical support, since this is a very important factor as far as paid web hosts go.
Lastly, always read the fine print. Go over the terms and conditions, since it has been seen that some free web-hosts claim ownership of the copyright of YOUR page and bar you from advertising on your own website! Keep in mind the restrictions and stipulations before venturing to put up you website on the internet.
July 29, 2008 by Matt Hedges
Filed under Web Hosting
Data Centre Reliability Considerations Checklist
Thanks for visiting our WorldVentures site.
Planning, creating, and building a data centre can be one of the most expensive tasks an IT director can face. In order to maximize cost effectiveness and achieve optimum performance, reliability is key.
Data centre size can range from one room in an office to an entire building, but there are some basic requirements which must be implemented to ensure system reliability. When designing a data centre, efficient planning is very important. A number of areas must be addressed to ensure a dependable and efficient system which is capable of continued operation.
Understand the potential causes of failure
There are a number of areas cited as the most common causes of data centre failure:
- Environmental problems - Software failure - for example, memory leaks - Hardware failure - such as storage or processing problems - Operator or procedural error - Poor network reliability - Security breaches - for example hacker attack
Environmental considerations
When planning a data centre, there are a number of physical and architectural design features which must be implemented to ensure reliability:
Adequate Air Supply: temperature must be maintained between 20 and 25 ?C and humidity between 40 and 60 %. Too much humidity can cause water to condense on internal components. However if the air is too dry, this can cause static electricity to discharge. Malfunction is likely if the above ranges are not maintained. This is one of the prime causes of data centre malfunction. Implementation of adequate air conditioning and correct architectural design to allow for air circulation between units is vital. Particular care needs to be taken to prevent hotspots from occurring.
- Safeguard against power loss: external environmental factors such as hurricane or snowstorm can cause power black outs. It is vital to have a generator to ensure continued function, as well as an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) for emergency power. These should be of sufficient size to power cooling systems.
-Fire protection systems: the simplest forms of fire protection are smoke detectors, for early detection of a fire. It is also vital to ensure fire containment to prevent the spread of a fire to the entire data centre. For example: Contained sprinkler systems or gaseous fire suppression.
Software, hardware or network failure
Tested and quality assured hardware and software from reputable brands can help increase reliability. Common malfunction in one component, such as an internal fan or storage disc, can quickly lead to failure in another. Ensuring network performance and reliability can also have a huge impact on the performance of the data system.
Operational procedures
It is impossible to completely rule out human error and operational issues. However, devising an operations procedure to not only maximize performance but also track reliability and malfunction is key. Conduct regular back-ups on each production server to ensure quick file repair in the event of damage. Provide adequate operator training to implement protocol and avoid the most basic of errors such as leaving discs in drives, which would prevent an auto-reboot in the event of system failure.
Data security
Particularly important in large data centres with sensitive information, is to ensure adequate physical security. Corporations may consider outsourcing their data centre to an managed hosting services off-site location with 24 hour security guards and video surveillance. System security also requires keeping up-to-date with the latest security and anti-virus software.
Avoid single point of failure
One final key consideration is to avoid having a single point of failure. Test the system before it goes operational and ensure that if one component fails there is sufficient backup to ensure the data centre can still function. Back-up will make sure that your important data is never lost.
July 29, 2008 by Amy Nutt
Filed under Web Hosting
Free Web Hosting: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
Thanks for visiting our WorldVentures site.
Small businesses that wish to feature their services in internet often seek free and low priced web hosting services. This statement is generally true for companies who want to feature new websites. Free web hosting services offered by several hosting companies match the requirements of such businesses. The concept of free web hosting is based on a simple idea: a web host would provide free server space for hosting a small or medium business website. In return of this service the hosting companies would display advertisements on the client’s site and consequently earn from it. The free web hosting service is completely supported by advertisements but has its own limitations.
Clients of these services are easily lured by the no-cost features. Many of the hosts of free web space offer wonderful software and management capabilities for a free site. They then display pop up, pop under, or banner ads on the client’s website. Some also place these ads inside the client’s work space such as on their control panel with the provision they must click on them, or at least in the hopes they will. They may display these ads in other areas of the work space as well like on the file manager, etc.
The search for free hosting services has lessened over time with the development of many companies providing low cost web hosting with greater flexibility and no ads. Since these services offer great savings over most high cost web hosting plans with much more options and capabilities than free space business are now choosing these over free plans. The newest marketing and social crazy, blogging began to give free services a boon. As those blogs became easier to set up and use, however, that too is taking a backseat to the ability to blog on a cheap site without the additional technical help that used to be required.
How reliable are free web hosts?
Since the free hosts make money from the banner advertisements or resources related to it, they have more possibility of staying in the business. But it often happens that someone or some other company complains against their web hosting server declaring it as spam, hacker, etc, Complaints also crawl up if any free web hosting company utilizes an automated instant activation to offer other features like that of PHP or CGI. This is because free server consumes lot of downtime or the performance reduces considerably. This however, happens with the new web hosts but those who are professional generally don’t go for such offers.
The upside of free web hosts:
1. The free web hosting environments are great for students practicing web design, and their own hosting along with development. It allows them to store their projects, test them, and create them for free with no stress. They can expand their knowledge bank, and even share the information between each other. It is a valuable testing tool so they can see if their concepts are applicable and functional. It is a wonderful environment for creativity. Some web hosts cater specifically to that crowd such as boinc.ch who allows free accounts on their server for developers and students. People interested in creating a personal homepage can make great use of the features from these sites as well as it gives them the ability and freedom to share their personal life for free.
2. Another valuable use for free web hosting services is to volunteer organizations, and those companies that are not-for-profit. These institutions need to share their messages with the world but often have a very limited budget. The internet is the best way to reach masses of people quickly and free web hosting allows these organizations to do that, and also get donations and other important business on a large scale from many people at once. The same services that are beneficial to students, and personal web site builders are perfect for the volunteer and service organizations as it allows them to get online quickly at no cost. Larger web hosts may provide free service to these organizations for emotional reasons, but the most likely way to obtain free space is with a free host.
3. There are a large number of groups or communities who are eager to share their ideas and feeling on various big and small issues. Free websites can be helpful for such groups who don’t have enough money to invest on a shared or dedicated server. They can utilize the free service by posting useful information and also providing mutual links to their respective websites. This increases their search engine visibility and improves their rankings. Therefore both from SEO and financial perspective they are enjoying the benefit of free web hosting services.
4. Family websites can make great use of the free web hosting services too. They allow families to share information between each other and also with the world. Pictures, and other vital data can be shared in an almost diary form online where others can read and enjoy the experiences. Be sure to check for a web hosts authenticity before embarking on any program that shares your information online.
Cons of free web hosting
Even though the above organizations and individuals can save a great deal of money on free web hosting there are some things to consider before opting for those services.
1. Regardless of what they claim free hosts offer subdomain services not second-level domain.
2. Bandwidth to share pictures and data is very low on a free service provider. You will get much more with a paid service.
3. Since the free space provided is generally low, any file size cannot be uploaded freely in the website.
4. Your site will have many banners, pop ups, pop unders, and other distractions to visitors placed on it. This can look very unprofessional for an organization and diminish the value of the website. It also creates a negative impression to the visitor when they see all the ads and the subdomain name.
5. There is usually no guarantee of uptime.
6. Media and other big files types are not allowed as a rule. Most free sites restrict such files as MP3, MPEG, and ZIP to cut down on space used.
7. There is little to no support. Your ability to operate the site is a low priority to them. If it is offered it is usually short-term just to get you up online so they can make money.
July 29, 2008 by Matt Hedges
Filed under Web Hosting
Web Hosting for Your New Website
Thanks for visiting our WorldVentures site.
Many individuals are venturing onto the Internet and accessing the World Wide Web to build a presence online. In the exciting world of technology we are in users can become online gurus sharing knowledge, or entrepreneurs of business. Web hosting allows people of all types to use the internet like never before. Space is purchased by the potential website owner and is accessible to viewers online. Web hosting companies offer these services at a monthly fee. They provide the processing and storage of data, disc space and connection to their services via internet. There can be large upfront investments required for such services. However, there are many high-quality low cost services available for those who seek them out. These services are perfect for the individual with limited financial resources.
People starting a new website should always be aware about the goal of the website. What the website wants to archive? This has to be asked before any step is taken to host it on the web. Search engine factors and typical SEO guidelines can complement the web hosting services to make a website popular and worthy enough. Self targeted questions like, why will people read a website? What are the benefits they carry and how can that be marketed over the web, would enable a website owner to structure the website in the desired format.
Some tips for deciding on a web host for your website are:
Selecting a web hosting company:
This is the first and the foremost, function that a potential website owner, has to perform. There are several parameters based on which you can make your selection of the websites.
* Tech support: Be sure the web host offers technical support. Find a server that has 24/7 support so that they will be there when you need them. It’s preferable that they have this available in several ways such as via email, phone, or live chat. Check out their performance in this area by reporting an issue and gauging the time of response.
* Discounts and package availability: For beginning owners discounts can offer great benefits in startup fees. Packages can allow for a greater variety of services at reduced fees and add to the function on your website.
* All in one Hosting: Web hosts that offer bundles of services make it easier for individuals without IT knowledge to use their service. These bundles make it unnecessary to buy a variety of different tools to get one website online.
* MySQ Provisions: This is the most popular database systems. It should be in the basic hosting plan of any web host you consider. Whenever you have a need to build a database MySQL is the database you need to use. Many programs available to add to your website also use MySQL to function.
* Website need security socket layer: Websites owners often want to launch websites with the purpose of business e.g. eCommerce sites. Such websites include payments through Credit Cards. In such cases the entire hosting package has to be different. The hosting package would include Secure Socket Layer in it. The hosting plan has to be such that it includes this hosting package. People tend to concentrate more on features like bandwidth and storage, rather than SSL. But this is equally important as that of the other features for a website to become successful.
Calculate Disc space
Disc space requirements vary depending on the desired site applications. Stores with big socket needs for shopping carts, etc, or individual sites wanting chat rooms, forums, or multiple email accounts will require a large amount of available disc space to operate. The average 10-15 page website without the above extras will be able to operate much lighter and cost much less. The web host will charge for each degree of extra disc space so be sure to value this accordingly. Start small is always available and will allow you to grow as your needs expand.
Using a dedicated server:
While it seems expensive and even a little scary there are many reasons a dedicated server is a good idea. Shared servers are often unstable and can collapse from overuse by too many clients. Your own website may not even be responsible for the traffic volume but you cannot control what other sites on the same server are doing. Dedicated servers reduce this risk to a very great extent. There is also a reduced risk of violating search engine guidelines with a dedicated server.
Deciding on bandwidth requirements:
New websites usually do not require large bandwidths. Bandwidth regulates the level of traffic allowed, and transfer rates on pictures and files. The more your website is viewed or items downloaded from it, the more bandwidth will be required. Upgrades are available so start small.
Country specific hosting:
It is best if the web host has domains available that are specific to the country of origin for your website. This allows popular search engines such as Google to identify and define the relevance of your site for residents of your country. For example: if an English based software firm hosts a website in the US, Google will show those results to customers looking for that service in the US and may cost you valuable customers, and hurt your ranking due to reduced relevance.
Selecting the proper operating system
Most new sites use services based on Linux, or the UNIX based BSD. These servers allow for applications in Perl/CGI, PHP, FrontPage and such. It is essential that a Windows environment is used if you need ASP, .NET, MySQL, Access, or SBS as these require Windows to operate. This selection can be difficult if you are not aware website technicalities.
There are many varied needs to hosting a website and they will be different for every user. Extremely technical implements can hinder web-hosting services. If that becomes the case it is better to seek the aide of professional website developers to keep you from having problems.
July 29, 2008 by Matt Hedges
Filed under Web Hosting
Web Hosting Overseas
Thanks for visiting our WorldVentures site.
One would hardly argue against the fact that in a business context, the term ‘offshore’ denotes a kind of tax avoidance and sketchy business policy. Offshore Web hosting is, at times, an integral part of business world. North America is an ideal example where it is preferred because of the issue of privacy and security standards, which can be delivered outside of American soil only.
Some of the advantages of these offshore hosting services are features like confidentiality, security, secrecy of work, more profits, taxing benefits, advantageous business activities, lower government constraints etc. Due to just these features today, lots of offshore Web Hosting services have taken birth to cater to its ever increasing demands. These services have mushroomed up mostly in the Caribbean, parts of Asia and Central America as well.
Further the service along with being highly advantageous is also quite inexpensive but this cannot be the only reason why you would like to use it. Remember that if it is of no use to you then this minimum cost can also increase expenses for you. In fact if it is useful to you then only will its low cost be an advantage for you. So think before you take any action and never misuse your hard earned money.
Costing in Offshore Hosting - One can never take an oath and swear that the huge popularity of the offshore hosting service is entirely due to its low cost and money saving property. But it is true that compared to other places offshore web hosting and its likes comes at quite a cheap rate. In fact we even have data to confirm this statement. It has been proven through an intensive research that was done on an hourly basis in US, UK and Ukraine. In the US it is about $35-$75 while in the UK it is $25-$50 for every hour. However in Ukraine the rate is as low as $5-$20. Therefore even if we cannot swear on the reason for its popularity we can easily take an oath on its being your best choice when seen from a money-saver angle.
There are various factors that prompt you to think of a hosting provider outside of your home country. They are-
1. If you publish any material which can raise a storm of controversy around you then you stand the chance of your material or else your site being blocked by powerful companies with the right money and strings. Therefore you may need and offshore hosting service.
2. To protect yourself from blackouts and natural disasters, you have the benefit of guaranteeing yourself multiple mirror locations.
3. You will have full protection from any type of restrictive censorship.
4. Also you can properly deliver content to audiences away from your main hosting source.
5. Against the hackers, it provides you with greater security.
Another thing that is definitely to be mentioned is that offering competitive hosting services from non-traditional regions of the world will soon be a reality. By controlling advantageous labor costs, minimal competition and relative lower costs of entry for beginners, this dream will be real.
One thing that you can be sure about in this matter of offshore hosting is your privacy. Your privacy is the topmost priority of your service provider. In fact to protect your identity they allow you to buy your packages as an unnamed person. While most providers follow this scheme some will ask for minimum information so that receipt of your payment can be properly channeled. This security thus enables you to buy anything or upload anything that will not compromise the service provider’s use policy.
One thing that you have to keep in mind is that different service providers deem different things illegal. No two hosts will think of the same thing as legal and therefore you have to be careful. Always read the AUP properly before you upload any document. Generally in all web hosting services child abuse videos i.e. child pornography, terrorist sites, spam investment sites etc are considered illegal and are severely banned. For your own personal safety keep yourself above all of this as ultimately you would be trapped if you partake in any of these activities. Further keep away from sportsbooks since inspite of it being banned you might find it in certain offshore hosting services.
Perfect conditions for offshore web hosting are faultless Internet access and minimum natural disasters. These conditions, tax friendly policies, and strict confidentiality laws make Panama perfect fro e-commerce as claimed by HostingPanama (hostingpanama.com). When I mention that here, shared hosting packages begin with $9.95 per month and dedicated servers with $149.00 per month, this gets further clarified.
Hong Kong is devoid of any barriers to trade and international institutions like Heritage Foundation and Fraser Institute of Canada add to this statement’s authenticity. Advantages like free entry of foreign capital and repatriation of earnings, easy procedures for starting enterprises and a minimum level of government interference are really favorable. With all these advantages, Hong Kong reminds us of Zentek International (zentek-international.com). With plans beginning with $14 per month for 1GB bandwidth and 50MB of storage, Zentek is there at your service with confidential sign up and private domain registration. It also endows you with offshore Web hosting, dedicated servers and colocation.
You can also go for services like www.securehost.com or www.shinjiru.com which provide facilities in Jamaica, Bahamas and Kingston and Nassaau and is the largest offshore web host provider in Malaysia.
Benefits to be reaped off Hosting Offshore: Why would you in the entire world go for offshore hosting? Well just because it will help you to keep your data to yourself, therefore private, and will at the same time let you access international coverage opening up the doors of eternity for you.
Why is anonymous offshore hosting better than regular offshore hosting?
My confession is that even now offshore hosting companies prefer to have information regarding you intruding in your privacy. By this, you are also forced to use your credit card. The solution to this problem is Anonymous Hosting (Anonymous + Offshore = Total Freedom!).
What about the speed?
The factors influencing the varying speeds are level of Internet congestion and the place you are in. you can decide to add local bandwidth for local audience in addition to International bandwidth for the international audience (normal plan). Thus, you can initiate a sales channel in a particular region in its local language. If the clients are closer to the service, then the speed significantly increases and the vice versa.
Services of Offshore Hosting Outsourcing Companies
Apart from the inexpensive quality of offshore web hosting and offshore dedicated servers, you also need to think about the quality. Normally one does not prefer a part of the services at a lower price, but rather an offshore web hosting company endowing with all the needed services. A definite advantage of such companies is the customer service (24 hours daily), required to deal with clients all over the world. Also being a novice at the world of web hosting, it lets you put forward all your queries.
Conclusions on offshore hosting companies
If we put it in an order, high-quality customer service and lower price are the advantages of offshore hosting companies. Next, start thinking about the demarcating line between cultures. The work ethic and mode of communication are also of paramount significance. Let me assure you that for the future development of your website, the communication has to be good. The success comes only if you are able to convey your needs properly and they can live up to your needs with a proper understanding. Herein lies the importance of proper communication. So, you have to think about the issue of work ethic and communication in an intense manner. It is largely responsible to let your website run swiftly.
Ultimately we can only say that all of the purposes will be served if and only if the service provides you with all you need and it truly serves your purpose. In other case do not take it up and expend uselessly rather you should go for something that fits your need.
July 29, 2008 by Matt Hedges
Filed under Web Hosting
Creating a Reliable Data Centre Checklist
Thanks for visiting our WorldVentures site.
Planning, creating, and building a data centre can be one of the most expensive tasks an IT director can face. In order to maximize cost effectiveness and achieve optimum performance, reliability is key.
Data centre size can range from one room in an office to an entire building, but there are some basic requirements which must be implemented to ensure system reliability. When designing a data centre, efficient planning is very important. A number of areas must be addressed to ensure a dependable and efficient system which is capable of continued operation.
Understand the potential causes of failure
There are a number of areas cited as the most common causes of data centre failure:
Environmental problems Software failure - for example, memory leaks Hardware failure - such as storage or processing problems Operator or procedural error Poor network reliability Security breaches - for example hacker attack
Environmental considerations
When planning a data centre, there are a number of physical and architectural design features which must be implemented to ensure reliability:
- Adequate Air Supply: temperature must be maintained between 20 and 25 degree C and humidity between 40 and 60 %. Too much humidity can cause water to condense on internal components. However if the air is too dry, this can cause static electricity to discharge. Malfunction is likely if the above ranges are not maintained. This is one of the prime causes of data centre malfunction. Implementation of adequate air conditioning and correct architectural design to allow for air circulation between units is vital. Particular care needs to be taken to prevent “hotspots” from occurring.
- Safeguard against power loss: external environmental factors such as hurricane or snowstorm can cause power black outs. It is vital to have a generator to ensure continued function, as well as an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) for emergency power. These should be of sufficient size to power cooling systems.
- Fire protection systems: the simplest forms of fire protection are smoke detectors, for early detection of a fire. It is also vital to ensure fire containment to prevent the spread of a fire to the entire data centre. For example: Contained sprinkler systems or gaseous fire suppression
Software, hardware or network failure
Tested and quality assured hardware and software from reputable brands can help increase reliability. Common malfunction in one component, such as an internal fan or storage disc, can quickly lead to failure in another. Ensuring network performance and reliability can also have a huge impact on the performance of the data system.
Operational procedures
It is impossible to completely rule out human error and operational issues. However, devising an operations procedure to not only maximize performance but also track reliability and malfunction is key. Conduct regular back-ups on each production server to ensure quick file repair in the event of damage. Provide adequate operator training to implement protocol and avoid the most basic of errors such as leaving discs in drives, which would prevent an auto-reboot in the event of system failure.
Data security
Particularly important in large data centres with sensitive information, is to ensure adequate physical security. Corporations may consider outsourcing their data centre to an off-site location with 24 hour security guards and video surveillance. System security also requires keeping up-to-date with the latest security and anti-virus software.
Avoid single point of failure
One final key consideration is to avoid having a single point of failure. Test the system before it goes operational and ensure that if one component fails there is sufficient backup to ensure the data centre can still function. Back-up will make sure that your important data is never lost.
July 18, 2008 by Amy Nutt
Filed under Web Hosting
ASP Web Hosting
Thanks for visiting our WorldVentures site.
ASP hosting is a server-side scripting environment that uses the Active Server Pages (ASP) technology. It is designed for dynamic web pages and applications, offering a vast array of functionalities for web developers. ASP hosting is normally hosted on a Windows server, typically an NT server, and can be fully integrated into an Internet Information Server (IIS) or PWS. The concept of ASP is the same as scripts such as Java Server Pages (JSP) and CGI that enables web pages to work with databases and programs in the web server. An ASP web page is easily identifiable with the .asp extension on the URL.
ASP hosting works in similar way as other server-side scripting technologies. When your web browser sends its request to the web server, the web server will call ASP which would process the requested file. It would run any script commands and in turn sends the requested web page back to the web browser. Hence, it is the server who runs all the requests and sends the requested HTML pages back to the browser.
A WebMail feature is provided by most of the ASP web hosts that enables you to check your email online using your browser. You can check the email forwarding, email aliasesand email auto response features. A ‘catch all e-mail’ feature is also provided by many ASP web host providers. Nowadays, with an increase in spam mail, you have to look for anti-spam filtering feature in your ASP Web Hosting plan. Anti-Virus protection is also one that cannot be neglected.
Free Asp accounts offer a very reduced bandwidth. Most free ASP accounts don’t offer free email access. Moreover, you usually can’t have a unique, separate domain name. Most free hosting providers also won’t give you your own ftp account to upload your web files
Is the ASP hosting company certified by Microsoft? The best ASP hosting companies are certified by Microsoft. This means that you’ll be dealing with knowledgeable people who will be able to provide you with a great level of tech support. They also need to follow certain guidelines set down by Microsoft to achieve this certification.
July 5, 2008 by Ray Lam
Filed under Web Hosting
Reseller Web Hosting : Benefits of Reseller Web Hosting
Thanks for visiting our WorldVentures site.
Reseller web hosting is a web hosting service that re-bundles services available from real hosts or primary providers. Reseller web hosting could be an individual or small business that makes use of the bandwidth and web servers of a higher tier provider or primary host and resells the same to the customers by offering value added services like web designing, domain registration and web programming.
Reseller hosting is the perfect solution for webmasters, designers, developers, internet consultants or anyone wanting to start a profitable online business. If you’re looking to get into the reseller hosting business, cPanel reseller hosting is the best option. Reseller hosting is almost the same as a shared web hosting account except you are given more control over your account. A webmaster may require a network of websites under different domain names to serve different business plans, but all are hosted under a common reseller hosting account.
The services offered by a reseller web hosting service do not really differ from a real host. As a matter of fact, reseller web hosting offers more features to the customers. Due to the added value services, reseller web hosting can offer web design and programming services to each customer that are often times not possible from real hosts. Real hosts tend to focus on bulk accounts and corporate clients. Reseller web hosting offers value added services to customers in order to maintain a competitive edge against bigger web hosting services.
It is important to realize that when dealing with a reseller web hosting company, some of the control has been taken out of your hands. You will want to make sure the web hosting reseller service is not having problems with downtime. You can end up missing out on important emails and or sales from your valuable customers.
There are numerous hosting companies that offer reseller web hosting. However, there is one company that is #1 on the list for reseller hosting. This company is called Host Gator and they offer a great package for anyone interested in becoming their own web host. With their plan, you will get the great advantage of hosting unlimited websites.
Reseller web hosting is an ideal solution for those who already have a web site but maximum reliability, performance and uptime is critical to their business or e-commerce web site. A reseller is responsible for their own customer base only, but any hardware, software and connectivity problems are the responsibility of the server provider from whom the reseller plan was purchased. Reseller web hosts are normally not in charge of maintaining web server services or other maintenance related responsibilities but just a “web hosting provider.
July 5, 2008 by Ray Lam
Filed under Web Hosting



