How To Choose A Web Host
There are 2 main types of Web Hosts:
- Website Builders like Wix, Squarespace and Shopify
- Traditional Web Hosts like Namecheap, TMD Hosting and InMotion.
1. Website Builders
A website builder is a platform that lets people make and design websites with ease. It usually comes with pre-made templates and a drag-and-drop interface that makes it easy for anyone to make a website that looks professional. Website builders also take care of hosting, domains, and other important parts of building a website. This makes them a one-stop shop for making and publishing a website. They also often have eCommerce features like processing payments and keeping track of stock. Website builders are best for simple sites like personal blogs, portfolios, or sites for small businesses that don't get a lot of traffic.
Positives
- User-friendly interface
- No technical skills needed
- Pre-designed templates
- All-in-one solution for creating and publishing a website
- Ecommerce feature.
- Accessible for wide range of users
- No need to worry about technical aspects of website management
- Fast and easy to create a website
Negatives
- Limited customization options
- Limited scalability
- Limited control over website
- Extra charges for advanced features
- Limited resources compared to traditional hosting
- Limited access to backend of website.
- Can be expensive for those on a tight budget.
2.Traditional Web Hosts
Traditional Web Hosts may also offer a Website Builder, along with Shared Hosting, Managed Hosting, Cloud Hosting, VPS Hosting and Dedicated Hosting. Their plans are often a fraction of the cost of Website Builders and they offer a lot more resources such as storage, bandwidth and email accounts. They even have plans that offer unlimited websites for about the same price of one website hosted by a Website Builder.
Positives
- Greater control and flexibility over website
- More resources, such as storage and bandwidth
- Can choose specific server configurations and software
- Greater scalability as website grows
- Can use custom software such as WordPress, Joomla, PHPBB Forums, etc
- More control over server
- Access to backend of website
- More customizable
Negatives
- More of a learning curve
- More complex setup and maintenance
- Limited support
- No pre-designed templates unless using a CMS like WordPress
- No drag-and-drop interface unless using a CMS like WordPress
- No built-in eCommerce features but can use WordPress Plugins such as Woo Commerce
- More time consuming
- Need to handle security and backup yourself
3. The Cheapest Web Host
Traditional Web Hosts are significantly cheaper than Website Builders and provide significantly more resources in their plans, such as more storage and bandwidth, as well as additional features such as unlimited email accounts, unlimited websites, backup options and more.
Find the cheapest Web Host in our post Top 10 Shared Website Hosting 2023
4. The Easiest To Use Web Host
Website Builders are definitely the easiest to use. Website builders are designed to be easy to use and accessible to a wide range of users, regardless of their technical expertise. They typically offer a user-friendly drag-and-drop interface and pre-designed templates that make it quick and easy to create a professional-looking website without any coding or design skills.
5. When Should I Choose A Website Builder
Here are 3 reasons you should choose a Website Builder:
- I want a fast and easy way to make a website.
- I don't want to worry about website management such as security, backups, updates, and maintenance.
- I don't mind paying a premium for the convenience and ease of use.
6. When Should I Choose A Traditional Web Host
Here are 3 reasons you should choose a Traditional Web Host
- I want something cheap and don't mind taking a little longer to create a website.
- I'm willing to learn a little and read and watch “How To” articles and videos
- I want to create unlimited websites while still being affordable.
Learn how to quickly and easily setup a WordPress website with our post How To Create A WordPress Website and our FREE ebook DIY WORDPRESS WEBSITE – A Step-By-Step Guide.
7. Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice between a website builder and traditional web hosting depends on your specific needs and goals. If you're looking for a fast and easy way to create a website without any technical know-how, a website builder may be the best choice. If you're looking for more control and flexibility, and don't mind spending more time on setup and maintenance, traditional web hosting may be the way to go. It is important to weigh the pros and cons of each option and consider your budget, expected traffic, and website goals before making a decision. Hope this article has made your choice a little easier.
Good Luck
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