Smart web hosting
What is site hosting?
When we talk about “smart web hosting”, we refer to a technical solution allowing the storage of data and files associated with a website (images, texts, design, videos, etc.) within a “root” folder. ”, in a “database”. This data is stored on servers (permanently connected to the internet), in a way the computers on which the websites are hosted. The servers meet very specific technical characteristics and are generally managed by a web host (company that owns the servers).
Thanks to this smart web hosting service, your website is permanently accessible, whatever the day and time. Take the time to compare the different offers according to your needs.
Impact on site performance
Various elements related to smart web hosting will have an impact on the performance of your site, in particular the very important criterion of page loading speed. This element is taken into account by Google in SEO. You must take care of this criterion and choose a type of hosting that can optimize the loading speed.
Why use professional hosting?
You do not necessarily have powerful enough machines and sufficient technical skills within your teams. The use of a professional host is then necessary, to store the elements of your website on powerful and reliable machines, associated with very fast internet connections. You will also have customer support.
The different smart web hosting solutions
Discover the 4 main types of accommodation. Consider them based on your current and future needs.
1. Shared hosting
In this type of case, your website is stored on a server that you share with other sites. A very large number of connections on one of the sites can impact the speed of other sites. However, if you think your site will have less than 10,000 visitors per month, then this solution fits the bill.
2. Hosting on a dedicated server
Whether rented or purchased, the dedicated server allows you to be alone on it. You benefit from all its power and can even host several sites on this server. If you are planning traffic above 10,000 visits per month or you are a large company, opt for this solution instead.
3. VPS Server (Virtual Private Server)
The VPS server offers similar benefits to those of a dedicated server, for a lower cost. From the same physical server, several virtual servers have been created. If you are hesitating between a dedicated server or a shared server, then the VPS server represents a good compromise.
4. Cloud hosting
The cloud is a good solution if you think your needs will change over time, because it is flexible. You can then resize your server. In the event of a breakdown, with cloud hosting, other servers intervene to take over and ensure that your site is always accessible (unlike other solutions which rely on a single server).
4 essential criteria to take into account when choosing web hosting
Before choosing a web host, review some important criteria.
1. Security and SSL certificate
Data relating to your website is valuable, be vigilant about security recommendations. They provide protection against hacking attempts. The host must offer you an SSL certificate. Concretely, the URL of your site will start with “ https://” and your visitors will see a small padlock in the address bar of their browser. This is real protection.
2. Bandwidth quality
Are you able to roughly estimate the number of visits to your website? In the context of an e-commerce site, the bandwidth must be able to support connection “peaks” (for example during sales periods). Check if the host offers unlimited bandwidth access.
3. Storage capacity
When you choose hosting, you are opting for a certain amount of data associated with your site. This storage space depends on the size of the site window and the number of pages. Also provide space for backups.
The storage space can of course be adjusted according to your needs and the evolution of your site, but you might as well get it right from the start.
4. Quality of customer service and technical support
Regardless of your industry, you can’t afford to leave your site offline for too long. In the event of a problem related to hosting, your host’s technical support must therefore be particularly responsive. Your business and your notoriety depend on it.
Before choosing your web host, take stock of your needs and compare the offers. The best accommodation is the one that corresponds to your constraints and your realities.