Choosing the Right Web Hosting Service for Your Needs

Unix Hosting

Unix, one of the oldest and most widely used operating systems, forms the backbone of the internet. Many web servers originally ran on Unix, known for its multitasking capabilities. This means it can run multiple applications simultaneously without interference, a crucial feature when hundreds of websites, running thousands of CGI scripts, are receiving thousands of hits on a single web server.

Why Choose Unix?

• It's reliable
• Can host multiple websites on the same machine
• Most CGI scripts run better on Unix
• Offers programming flexibility
• Provides extensive administrative control

Unix allows webmasters to fine-tune their websites for optimal performance, assuming they have the necessary knowledge. Developers can run CGI scripts and create applications tailored to their needs.

Drawbacks of Unix

• It is case sensitive
• It has a steep learning curve
• Requires the use of telnet or FTP for changes

Windows NT Hosting

Windows NT, though a relative newcomer to the web hosting scene, is quickly gaining a significant market share. Designed to integrate seamlessly with Microsoft's web authoring tool, Frontpage, it's often the go-to solution for beginners who don't want to learn HTML or CGI programming or deal with the daily administration of a web server.

Benefits of Windows NT

• Allows the use of Microsoft Frontpage for website publishing, eliminating the need for FTP or telnet
• Supports Cold Fusion
• Easier to administer, especially for the average webmaster
• Not case sensitive

If you're not interested in learning the intricacies of web administration, Windows NT could be your ideal choice.

Drawbacks of Windows NT

• Offers less security than Unix
• Due to security concerns, hosting providers often implement stricter security measures
• Cannot run all CGI scripts, although this is changing

Your needs as a webmaster, as well as the needs of your visitors, will determine the type of web host and platform you require.

Once you've conducted further research into the platform that best suits your needs, consider visiting an independent website like TopHosts to choose from their top 25 hosts.

Consider the following factors when choosing a host:

• Uptime: The frequency of server downtime can result in lost business and sales. Aim for a web host with an uptime of 99.9%.
• Bandwidth Usage: Some hosts charge extra for traffic beyond a certain limit. Look for hosts offering unmetered traffic at no additional cost.
• Server Space: Aim for hosts offering 50-500 MB of space. As technology evolves, websites will require more space.
• CGI Access: The ability to use CGI, especially custom CGI, is crucial. Avoid hosts that don't offer this.
• MSQL, Real Audio, Real Video, Cold Fusion Support: These are the future of web marketing. Ensure your host supports these applications, even if you don't currently need them.

Investing time in research before choosing or switching to a new host can save you from future problems. You deserve the best, so go for it.