If you are an absolute beginner this is where you should start. if you already have your own domain name and web hosting you can fast forward to part 3.

Most companies offer a few different types of Shared Web Hosting services. The only difference usually being how much disk space you want or how much transfer allowance you need.

These hosting plans will usually provide only one root directory for all of the domains and sites you plan to build. You will also be allowed one "primary domain". All other domains will have to be "parked" or added on to the primary domain. Without getting too technical, let's just say that some Shared Web Hosting UK scripts don't "play" well with others. And many just don't like being installed in sub-directories!

I have recently shared a customer's nightmare with a supposedly reputable domain registrar. All they wanted was their domain pointing to a different DNS server (the server that tells the internet where your website is), a simple request, they received no response from any of their emails. I didn't like their silence and suggested we actually move the domain to my registrar instead, more emails sent, more silence, weeks of it!

Quick Affordable Web Hosting provides many benefits. Who likes to dwell and wait whilst a web page loads? It is said that a page must load in less than one second or you risk losing your website visitor. Websites are becoming increasingly sophisticated with images and sound as well as instant contact support, so your hosting really does need to be quick.

Forget Testimonials at the host's page. Although we also have them and what is written are true opinions, no doubt, you have to see for yourself if the company is as reliable as it claims. Just contact them and ask for information you will need to know. "Where is their data center located?", "What happens if I exceed a bandwidth limit?", "Do you provide basic help with scripting?", "Am I going to have full control over my domain and if not do you register the domain at customer's name?" etc. Ask any question that might affect on your online business.

This is why comparing different services provided by affordable web hosting providers is important. While other hosting companies lure potential customers with additional services, others simply make sure that your site is up and running and available to anyone who wants to visit them.