Table of Contents
Shared hosting
As the name suggests, shared hosting involves multiple websites being connected to one server. The number of sites on each server will differ depending on the host and other factors.
When using a shared server, each user will normally cover the costs (if you choose a hosting provider, your subscription will typically fund this). Shared hosting providers include GoDaddy, TMDHosting, and HostGator.
Pros:
- Normally less expensive
- Low maintenance
Cons:
- Not very scalable
- Slower website speeds
VPS hosting
VPS stands for virtual private server. Despite its name, you still share parts of a physical server; the main difference from shared hosting is that you have your own private space. Websites will sometimes choose VPS hosting as a middle ground between shared hosting and dedicated hosting.
Unlike shared hosting, you get a clear amount of resources – but you should consider the potential disadvantages of this, such as more technical experience needed. Examples of VPS hosting include Bluehost, IONS, and DreamHost. GoDaddy also has VPS hosting.
Pros:
- Faster website speeds
- More diverse customization
Cons:
- More technical experience is needed if you want to customize
Dedicated hosting
Shared and VPS hosting might cause scalability issues at some point, but dedicated hosting is an alternative choice. Dedicated hosting is where a website has its own server and its own resources; it’s worth noting that this is often more expensive.
You do need more technical knowledge for customization, but you can change your settings to fit your website. Dedicated hosting site examples are OVHCloud, Accu Web Hosting, and InMotion Hosting. Changing your host is time-consuming, but some previously mentioned sites (e.g., Bluehost) have this type of plan as well.
Pros:
- Full customization
- Scalable for bigger websites
- Dedicated servers
Cons:
- Expensive
- Not necessary for small websites
Managed WordPress hosting
Managed WordPress hosting is available for sites and blogs running on WordPress. The hosting provider performs background updates and optimizes performance, but these are often pricey and aren’t available on other platforms.
Managed WordPress hosting sites have performance scores with suggestions for improvement, but you may have to implement these yourself. You should also have someone within your company who can access your backend and monitor your site. Examples of Managed WordPress hosting include Hostinger, Kinsta, and WP Engine.
Pros:
- No need to deal with updates yourself
- Scalability
- Ideal for big and small websites
Cons:
- Only available with WordPress; you’ll have to find an alternative if you change your CMS
What is shared hosting?
Shared hosting is when a website shares servers with other sites, such as bandwidth. If you’ve ever rented an apartment in a large complex, or lived in accommodation with a shared kitchen, it works similar to that.
Shared hosting is the most budget-friendly option for websites just starting out, but at some point, you’ll probably want your own server.
What other types of hosting are there?
Besides the hosting types we’ve mentioned above, there are some other types – namely:
- Colocated servers: This is where other sites rent out part of their server space; you may hear this sometimes referred to as “colo”.
- Cloud hosting: This is when servers are hosted digitally. Examples include Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Google Cloud.
Understanding the basics of hosting
Website hosting is where you store your site files and folders somewhere online. Before you can launch your website, you should focus on hosting and picking a provider.
Hosting covers aspects like website speed, and for this reason, picking a place with high uptime is essential.
How do I know which type of hosting I need?
The type of web hosting that you need will depend on your individual needs, and you need to spend some time thinking about this. Consider each of the following and do your research in accordance with these requirements:
- Size and traffic: You don’t need something complex if you’re smaller, but if you pick shared hosting, check to see if your provider has options.
- Budget: Shared hosting costs less money, but you have to think about the trade-offs (e.g. less customization). Pick a hosting provider based on how much money you can spend.
- Technical needs: Think about how much technical flexibility you need.
- Scalability: If you plan to grow your business, you’ll need something more than shared hosting; check to see if your hosting provider has managed or dedicated hosting.
Practical tips for choosing a hosting plan
- Start small: Opt for a plan matching your current needs (shared hosting is often a good starting point).
- Upgrade as needed: Monitor your website’s growth and upgrade your hosting when resource limits are reached.
- Prioritize reliability: Focus on hosting providers with strong reputations for uptime and support.
- Secure your investment: Regularly back up your website data.
Conclusion
Website hosting feels complex if you’re a beginner and don’t have any technical knowledge, but it is an important part of your business or blog journey. Therefore, you should spend some time doing your research and understanding the differences between each of them.
Different types of hosting require differing levels of technical expertise, and budgets will also vary. Shared hosting is a common place to start, but make sure that your provider has scaling options if you plan to grow your site.
Assess your needs before committing to a provider, and upgrade as your budget and website grow. Consider everything we’ve discussed in this guide, and read host reviews from customers.
