If you are thinking of hosting your website and you are not sure how to save cost, then this article will enlighten you on how shared hosting can save cost for you in your business. Shared hosting is the cheapest way to host your website.
What does Shared Hosting Mean?
Shared hosting is when different users or site owners share the resources of one particular server. This means that all the resources of a single server have been shared and allocated to different users. It usually means memory space, bandwidth, traffic, and database. In shared hosting, each user has their own allocated part of the server. This is cost-effective, as a single server can be used by multiple customers at the same time and will each have its own resources allocated to them. This form of hosting is best suited for small businesses like blog sites that do not experience high traffic. Apart from that, shared hosting is much easier to maintain given that the cost is shared by all the users.
If you intend to run a personal blog or a small business website that is not expecting much traffic, shared hosting might just be the perfect hosting plan for you. Remember, however, that this type of hosting is not ideal for websites that accept online payments through credit/debit cards or internet banking.
Types of shared hosting
There are various types of shared web hosting available to website owners and can be classified into two major forms: Management and Operating systems.
Management: Management in shared hosting can be classified in two ways: managed hosting and unmanaged hosting.
Operating System: shared hosting can be categorized by its operating system. This is Linux shared hosting and Windows shared hosting.
Managed shared hosting
This form of hosting service is basically taking care of all the management and administration of your server while you still have freedom and control over the services offered. It provides all the needed support without you having to worry about troubleshooting and maintenance. This is, by far, the best plan if you are not familiar with the technicalities of web hosting.
Unmanaged shared hosting
In unmanaged shared hosting, the management of the server is left in your care. Unmanaged shared hosting does not provide any support whatsoever in the case of issues and can be quite stressful if you are not familiar with the technical know-how. If you are still trying to find your foot, this type of shared hosting is not usually advisable.
Linux shared hosting
This is basically a web hosting platform running on a Linux open-source server.
Linux shared hosting comes with its own perks. It is cost-efficient, reliable, flexible, and offers a greater degree of freedom accessing the root folder. With the control panel, you are able to include and remove features as and when the need arises. It does not restrict you or limit you to certain features of a particular platform, rather it makes it possible for you to decide freely what is best for your website to ensure smooth operation. Linux operating system lets you build and manage your shared hosting plan however you deem fit.
Windows shared hosting
Put simply, this is a server running on a Windows operating system software. It is better optimized for Windows products and ensures a seamless and smooth running website. It also has certain unique features that make it great in terms of hosting and providing security for your data and files.
How does shared hosting work?
Shared hosting is basically single physical server resources shared among multiple users. Resources such as disk space, bandwidth, and memory space are already allocated to specific users.
In shared hosting, different websites are hosted on one shared server which is divided for each user. This means every customer on the platform is given a space to host each of their websites. As a result, the users share costs, making shared hosting cheaper.
Although it is a good economic choice as the expense of maintenance is shared among all the users, it has its shortcomings like any service. It provides limited resources since all its resources have to be shared too. There could also be occasional crashes, delays in running, and possible security issues. Users can, however, upgrade at any time and get more disk space and bandwidth.
Nevertheless, shared hosting is a go-to for most businesses and is what is generally offered by most web hosting platforms as an entry-level product. It is, therefore, important to choose the right hosting platform in order to avoid any issues and delays.
Advantages of a shared hosting
- Professionally managed: Your host manages the server. You literally do not have to take care of the administrative tasks. In case of issues, you are expected to simply email your host.
- Affordable: Shared hosting is the least expensive option you have. Setting up a website is easy and if you are installing a CMS, your website can start working within a few hours.
- Can host more than one domain: You can host multiple websites on a shared hosting plan. All you need is purchased domains and you are ready to install them on the server.
- Flexible: Shared hosting plans come with limited resources, but you can easily upgrade and get access to more features almost instantly.
How to buy shared hosting
You can check for various hosting platforms within your country to see which provides the best shared hosting plans that suit your budget and needs. Plans start at as low as INR 286.3/ month. Remember, if you buy a shared hosting server that is located in another country, you will be expected to bear additional costs. You might have to make the payment in another currency as well.
Where to buy shared hosting.
There are several shared hosting services available. Shortlisting the best one might be a challenge though.
Most web hosting platforms usually provide shared hosting as it is the basic service. There are numerous web hosting services that are global, but it is recommended that you look for servers in your geographical location as this ensures easy access, swift service, and local customer support. Additionally, when comparing shared hosting plans, look out for server speed, memory space allocated, disk space, SSL certificates, and bandwidth. The more you get, the better it is. Perform a quick web search for customer reviews of various sharing hosting plans to make an informed decision.