Web Hostingprovider
If you want people all over the world to see your website, you must store it on a web server.
Using your own hosting
Storing your website on your own server is always an option. However, there are some issues to consider:
Hardware cost
To run a "real" website, you must purchase some high-performance server hardware. Don't expect a low-cost PC to do this work. You also need an uninterrupted high-speed connection that reaches your office, and such a connection is very expensive.
Software fees
Don't forget to calculate additional costs for software licenses. Remember that server license prices are usually much higher than client licenses. Also note that some server software licenses limit the number of development users.
Labor costs
Don't expect very low labor costs. Remember that you have to install the software and hardware, deal with vulnerabilities and viruses, and keep the server running continuously in an environment where "anything can happen."
Use an Internet Service Provider (ISP: Internet Service Provider)
Renting a server from an Internet Service Provider (ISP) is a common choice.
Renting a server from an ISP is the most common practice. The benefits of doing so are:
Connection speed
Most providers have extremely fast Internet connections.
Powerful hardware
Service providers usually have many powerful web servers that can be shared by multiple companies. They can provide load balancing as well as necessary backup services.
Security and stability
ISPs are experts in the field of website hosting. They can provide more than 99% uptime, the latest software vulnerability patches, and the best virus protection.
Things to consider when using an ISP
24-hour support
Make sure the ISP you choose provides 24-hour support. Don't put yourself in a situation where you have to wait until the next business day to fix critical issues. If you don't want to spend a lot on long-distance call charges, a toll-free telephone number is also important.
Daily backup
Make sure the ISP you choose provides daily routine security backups; otherwise, you may lose a significant amount of valuable data.
Traffic limit
Research the provider's traffic limit terms. Make sure that if your website becomes popular, you won't have to pay extra for unexpected high traffic.
Bandwidth or content restrictions
Research the provider's bandwidth and content limit terms. If you plan to publish images, broadcasts, or audio, make sure you have the rights to do so.
Email performance
Make sure the provider fully supports the email functionality you need. (You can get more information about email functionality in later chapters.)
FrontPage Extensions
If you plan to use FrontPage to develop your website, make sure your provider fully supports FrontPage server extensions.
Database access
If you plan to use a database on your website, make sure your provider fully supports the database access you need. (You can read more about database access in later chapters.)
other extensions