Web Hosting Guides by HostCue

Important Benefits of e-Commerce Web Hosting

Virtually every reliable and formidable company has their own website where they execute sales and transaction daily.  Each day countless individuals engage in activities such as banking, shopping, email communications, and entertainment.  The popularity of the world wide web has allowed business owner’s to boost their productivity and sales substantially. Entrepreneurs who do not yet own or run a business are also benefiting from having their own websites, and they are doing so with very little initial investment on their behalf. Ecommerce has also allowed many people to work from home, giving them a new freedom in life. If you are interested in selling products or services on your website then it would be wise to consider eCommerce hosting solutions. Here we will discuss the benefits of eCommerce hosting.

 

e-Commerce Hosting Tools

Ecommerce web hosting providers offer all the features needed to complete secure transactions online. Usually, your hosting account will come equipped with one or more registered domain names, as well multiple email accounts.  You’ll also have administrative abilities with these email accounts that will make managing business e-mail a lot more convenient. Another essential e-commerce feature is a shopping cart application , which will give your customers the ability to buy multiple items and cash out with ease. These shopping cart services also include PayPal integration and a merchant account for storing and tracking funds.  A good e-commerce hosting provider will also provide an SSL certificate that will encrypt all data sent through your website, thereby protecting the financial information of you and your customers.

 

Flexibility of e-Commerce Hosting Solutions

 

E-commerce solutions are also very flexibility with regards to the features of each plan. Regardless of the plan you choose, all e-commerce solution plans will include the minimum features needed to help your business run efficiently. However, most web hosting companies offer more than just the bare minimum for their e-commerce solutions, even giving you access to SEO tools that will boost your website’s traffic.

 

E-commerce Hosting Support Benefits

Most web hosting companies offer plans that meet both personal and business needs. Hosting companies know just how important customer service is to their customers. The customer service and support that a host offers can allow a business owner to see substantial gains in their productivity through an increased confidence and overall ability to improve their website. Since your website is open 24 hours a day, you should also make sure your prospective web host offers 24 hours customer support.

E-commerce Hosting Cost

 

The cost of a web hosting package depends entirely upon your needs, as well as the company you will be purchasing the hosting plan from. Some plans can be very expensive if you are in need of many tools and services, while other may only be a few dollars per month if you only require a basic e-commerce hosting account. Of course, even if you only need the minimum features, remember that you will always get what you pay for, and the cheapest plan is not necessarily going to be the best.  You should be more concerned with reliability than affordability, as this will affect your business in the long run. Most web hosting companies back their plans by money back guarantees, so you have nothing to lose by trying a more expensive plan.

 

Creating Backups In cPanel

With all of the time and effort that is put forth into building a website, it would be foolish not to secure your efforts by creating a backup. Failing to backup your website could result in months or even years of work being lost overnight. There are a number of situations that could result in data loss for your website; your server’s hard drive can fail, your webhost can go out of business without warning, electrical problems can occur, and various other mishaps can take place. To prevent this from happening, users of cPanel can backup all of their website’s information quickly and easily with cPanel’s integrated backup utility. The entire backup process is automated, requiring only a few simple selections on your behalf, and cPanel users can even use the same backup utility to restore lost data.

Creating and Downloading a Full Backup

To create and download a full backup in cPanel, click Download or Generate a Full Web Site Backup in the cPanel Backup Utility Menu. Once the backup has been generated, you can select the file and save it to your computer by finding the recently created backup in the “Backups Available for Download” section. If needed, you can use this file at a later date to restore lost data within cPanel’s backup utility.

Creating Partial Backups

 

It is also possible to save certain pieces of your website, by clicking the appropriate links under the “Partial Backups” heading. Using his method will cause the backup file(s) to be downloaded to your computer in the directory of your choice.

Saving a Copy of Your Website to the Web Server

 

To save a copy of your website to the web server click  Download or Generate a Full Web Site Backup. Then select Home Directory from the “Backup Destination” heading. Next, type in your email address so that you can receive a notification email when the backup is ready. Finally, click Generate Backup.

Storing a Backup Remotely

While this feature is best done by advanced cPanel users, it is possible to log into a remote computer and store backup files through FTP/SCP. After you have entered all of the necessary information, the backup file can then be stored in the directory of your choice on a remote device. You will also receive a notification email at the email address of your choice, once the backup has been completed .

NOTE: When restoring a website using cPanel’s backup utility, you cannot use a full backup. Instead, the file must be downloaded and then decompressed before data restoration can occur. Only after the file has been decompressed will you then be able to upload and restore the individual segments of your website that are contained within the full backup.

 

A Secure Website Offers a Peace of Mind

Whether you run a business website or a high trafficked blog, it is critically important to make sure your security system is as tight as possible.  When it comes to security, relaxed is something you cannot afford to be.  You need to take all the necessary measures to ensure that you stay ahead of the game.  If you just sit back and do nothing, then your risk of falling victim to a security breach soars.

Update Your Web Applications

Running older versions of programs such as Joomla or WordPress is like inviting hackers right into your website.  Software developers make updates of their products available to keep a jump on ambitious hackers.  In fact, there is currently a very nasty battle brewing between software companies and hackers.  Cyber criminals make it their business to compromise new applications as soon as they are released on the market.  Because this takes more time than they would like, the new versions of software are typically safe until updates or upgrades are made available.  Unfortunately, this usually means that the old versions are rendered vulnerable and therefore, insecure.  To put it simple – if you really value your customers and have their best interests at heart, you will only make use of the latest and most secure web applications.  If the word gets out that your website or blog is insecure, then you might not be able to recover from the blow inflicted to your reputation.

Secure Your Administrative Systems

Web applications are not all you need to be concerned about.  You also need to pay special attention to your administrative systems as well.  Whether it is the job of your system administrator or web hosting provider, it is ultimately up to you to ensure that security is up to par.  One of the most effective ways to keep your administrative systems secure is to apply strong passwords.  You would be surprised at just how fast hackers can guess a password.  This is especially true if you choose to use something that can be easily associated with your personal life.  You also have to consider that hackers have access to automated tools that greatly simplify the guessing process.  If your website stores sensitive information about your business or customers, then choosing a smart, secure password is a must.

Conclusion

If you run an online business, then there is a great chance that your website is your main source of income.  When this is the case, you need to make sure your customers’ information is secure as this is the best way to maintain integrity and loyalty among your audience.  Don’t take any chances with security.  By staying ahead of the game, both you and your audience can enjoy the peace of mind a solid security system offers.

 

Reasons For Using Multiple Domain Hosting

Multiple domain hosting refers to a form of web hosting that allows you to control several domains on one hosting account. Hosting multiple domains on a single hosting account allows you to save time and money, because instead of paying for multiple hosting services, you can have all of your hosting needs met by one company. Multiple domain hosting is also seen as a highly convenient option, as you can administer the services and features of each domain within one centralized control panel.

 

The Advantages of Multiple Domain Hosting

There are many benefits involved with using multiple domain hosting. The most notable advantage is that multiple domain hosting allows you to expand your web presence, thereby increasing your visibility allowing you to reach more clients with ease. With control over multiple domains, you have the ability to stretch your investments into multiple niches, thereby diversifying your income through various revenue streams.  When used in conjunction with the ever-expanding online arsenal of website applications and plugins, multiple domain hosting gives you the ultimate ability to express yourself, or your business, by creating blogs, photo galleries, forums, and even support sites. The sky is the limit with multiple domain hosting, as you are no longer restricted by the confines of a single web site. Multiple domain hosting captures the essence of what it means to be entrepreneurial.

 

The Value of Multiple Domain Hosting

Due to the large and varied number of companies offering multiple domain hosting, it is now very easy to find affordable deals on multiple domain hosting. In fact, even though you have control over multiple domains in one control panel, the prices are in the same area as other hosting packages. There may be a little extra cost involved, but it is well worth it to be able to expand your online business with multiple web sites. Keep in mind that choosing a reliable hosting company will ensure that your investment is worth every penny, even if it costs you a bit more than using a “cheaper” web hosting service. The old saying “you get what you pay for” is still valid, especially in the world of online business.

 

The Ease of Multiple Domain Hosting

While multiple domain hosting may cost a few extra dollars more per month, the domain names themselves are extremely easy to acquire, and they are also highly affordable. You can buy a $5 domain from a site like GoDaddy, and then use this new domain with your multiple domain hosting package by pointing your site to your hosting provider’s servers. This is a very simple process that can be done with the help of the hosting company within your website’s control panel interface. After you’ve made the necessary changes and your new domains are active, you can log into your multiple domain hosting account and manage them as you see fit. Most web hosts will also offer the features needed to set up additional services such as FTP accounts, email accounts, subdirectories and databases for each individual domain.

 

Does Your Host Support You?

If you want to have your very own website, rest assured that there are many web hosting providers around to fulfill that desire.  However, there is much that needs to be  considered in order to find the provider that is truly appropriate for your needs.  One of the most important of all is the level of support the company provides with the service.

Before signing up for any web hosting plan, it is advisable to find out just how competent the support staff is and how fast they will be able to respond to your questions or concerns.  It may also be a good ideal to find a company that provides different methods of support to ensure that you are covered from all angles.

 

Common and Advanced Support Options

 

In today’s web hosting market, support is provided in several ways.  Most companies make online documentation available in the form of knowledge bases, FAQs and tutorials.  These support options are great for customers who want to find their own answers as they generally contain information related to the service.  A well designed support system will make it fast and easy to find out how to set up email accounts, create databases, add on domains, implement your site builder, and much more.  While very convenient, online documentation should not be the only form of support the hosting company provides.  You also need the benefit of advanced support options, including the following:

 

Email – When signing up for a hosting package, email support should be a given.  No exceptions.  Even companies that have limited support options usually offer email support 24/7.  Because email can never assure you the speediest response, you may want to look for other methods to obtain the support you need.

 

Support Tickets - Ticket systems have become a common way to provide support on the web hosting market.  You simply fill out a ticket expressing your questions or concerns, submit it to the support department, and then wait for a response.  Support tickets offer the power of convenience and make a great alternative to email.

 

Live Chat – This is another feature that has become very popular in the on-demand world of internet computing.  Live chat allows you to get support in near real-time.  No waiting for a response via email or from the ticket system, both of which can be slower than you would prefer.  Although live chat is a matter of preference, this support option can turn out to be useful when yo need to communicate with a real person.

 

Toll-free Phone – The support feature many consider a must have is toll-free phone.  All the above options are great, but nothing beats the old fashion method of being able to get a live employee on the phone.  It would be nice if you could find a host company that at least keeps its technical support line open around the clock as problems could occur at any time.

 

Finding a good web hosting provider is never as easy as it sounds.  However, due diligence is required to find the solution that is best fit for your needs.  Therefore, you should access the company’s level of support as much as you can to better determine if it will live up to expectations.

Breaking Down the Cost of Web Hosting

You may be curious to know why so many web hosting companies have different prices for what is nearly the same service.  Well, one cause is that, just like any business, the web hosting industry has scams and shady companies looking to make all the money they can off the unknowing.  They offer higher priced services with the belief that someone will pay for them.  On the other hand, most web hosting providers actually have legitimate reasons for the prices they charge, whether they are high or low.  Knowing this can help clear up some confusion regarding the pricing differentiation of web hosting services.  Let’s take a look at some factors that impact cost the most.

 

Support – This just might be the single most important factor that impacts the cost of a web hosting service.  Companies that deliver quality support and quickly respond to technical issues tend to have a much higher ratio of skilled employees to clients.  Because maintaining a well trained staff and efficient support system can be costly, these firms often charge more for their services.  For these providers, satisfied customers usually results in more business.  Some companies choose to cut corners in the support department in order to offer a cheaper service.  Unfortunately for them, their businesses usually do not survive.

 

Network and Infrastructure – A large portion of the costs for a web hosting service can be attributed to the company’s network and infrastructure.  Some companies store their severs in many different data centers which isn’t cheap by any means.  In addition, redundant internet connections, electrical systems, backup power and security features are needed to ensure a reliable service.  All of this results in a pricing structure that enables the host to maintain a reasonable profit margin.

 

Loss Selling – Some web hosting firms sell at loss in hopes of expanding their client base and selling additional services to those same customers at a later time.  For instance, a company might price their hosting plans lower than market costs to make other services such as web design, SSL certificates and search engine marketing more attractive to the customer.  Although there are many benefits to be reaped from attracting customers with lower prices, this is still a risky move.  If the gamble the host takes backfires, it may be difficult for them to maintain quality of service over the long term.

 

Over Selling – This is one of the most common practices in the web hosting business and a major reason why prices are so cheap.  A perfect example would be a company that offers unlimited disk space on a piece of hardware that only has a capacity of 100 GB.  Because the average website only requires minimal space, the firm is able to get away with overselling and still maintain quality of service for its customers.  However, this is still risky because there is always a chance that several customers will maximize the resources allocated to them.

 

When evaluating web hosting packages, one must keep in mind that the lowest price doesn’t necessarily translate to the best value while the highest price does not guarantee the best return on investment.  Regardless of the cost, it is all about prioritizing your needs, doing your homework and choosing a provider wisely.

Storage and Backup Considerations for Colocation

Data storage and backup are two important factors that often get overlooked when choosing a colocation facility.  More than likely, you have opted to move your equipment to a third-party data center because your systems contain mission-critical information that cannot afford to be compromised.  When this is the case, you need to give that data the same consideration you would your servers.

 

Common Storage Solutions

 

There are basically three types of storage and backup solutions that can be used for your servers: DAS, NAS and SAN.  Here is a more in-depth look at each variation:

 

DAS (Direct Attached Storage)

 

DAS is the most widely used type of data storage and backup system.  These systems are quite similar to the external hard drives that support memory installation and can be attached to home-based personal computers.  If you run a small business that doesn’t have demanding storage requirements, DAS could be the solution for you.  The major drawback is that your server can end up lagging while trying to store files and run your applications at the same time.  You should also keep in mind that DAS solutions are limited in capacity and not suitable for large-scale storage needs.  Therefore, if your business is experiencing fast, positive growth, this might only serve as a temporary solution.

 

NAS (Network Attached Storage)

 

NAS is a unique storage solution that works by placing additional capacity on the server, but keeps it separate from your running applications.  Hence the name, NAS systems run on the network, making them ideal for the organization utilizing networked computing.  The major draw to this solution is enhanced performance and a cost efficiency that allows for a positive return on investment.  With NAS, your file server can be centrally managed without affecting the other networked servers being used to run your applications, making it a great file sharing system that maintains a high level of productivity.

 

SAN (Storage Area Network)

 

SAN is a more advanced data storage and backup system best suited for larger businesses that demand the ability to transfer multiple files over a more stable fiber connection.  While efficient and increasing in popularity, these solutions are relatively new and lack the compatibility needed to make them valuable to more customers.  SAN is considerably more complex and expensive than both DAS and NAS, which is why the system is mainly used by organizations that can afford its novelty.  On the other hand, it makes a viable storage and backup option for online businesses due to the high volumes of traffic they typically receive.

 

How Do You Decide?

It can be very difficult to properly access your storage and backup requirements.  The good thing is that these particular systems can often be integrated and work seamlessly with one another.  For instance, you may decide to keep things simple with DAS and then use NAS for separate operations.  The best advice we can give is to first determine your storage needs and then figure out which individual solution or combination meets those requirements.  Getting this out of the way will give you a much needed peace of mind when colocating your equipment.

Mint Panel Control Panel Overview

Mint Panel is one of the most unique control panels on the market.  Not only does it offer the ability to automate the management of web servers, but FTP, voice and game servers as well.  Notably more affordable than competing products, the software bundles reseller and billing support to make it a complete automated server management solution.

 

Centralized Server Management

 

Mint Panel makes it simple to managed all installed servers from a single console.  Known as the Master Server, this centralized facility allows users of all access to levels to login and manage their respective environments.  This approach helps save precious system restores while enabling administrators to be more productive at the same time.

 

Extensive User Management

 

Mint Panel has five levels of login, each with its own unique roles and responsibilities that are defined by the administrator in the above tier.

 

Administrator – The administrator has the highest level of access, able to easily assign access to all other servers and enable those users to handle their respective management tasks.  Mint Panel also allows administrators to efficiently manage their entire network infrastructure, thus dramatically reducing the probability of system failures.

 

Reseller – The reseller has the same level of access as the administrator with the exception of being able to manage the master server and infrastructure.  This means the reseller has an extensive level of control over web, FTP, voice and game servers.

 

Account Holder – The third level of access gives account holders the ability to manage web, voice and game servers as well as create four fourth tier users to manage specific services based on the privileges provided to them.

 

User – The user represents a login level that is created by the administrator or account holder.  These users are usually assigned to specific servers to perform administrative tasks.

 

Mail User – The fifth level allows a user to login in an access their own provide area for managing passwords, spam filtering and anti-virus configurations.

 

Integrated Billing System

 

Mint Panel comes equipped with a complete billing system.  This fully featured system allows administrators and resellers to create custom invoices, automatically suspend services for defaulted payments, and set up recurring payments for customers.  It also supports multiple gateways with support for custom gateways to be added in the near future.  Perhaps the greatest thing about the Mint Panel billing system is that is lets you bill clients how you want.  You have the option to go with the traditional recurring monthly invoice, the increasingly popular pay-as-you-go model, or both.  For example, you can charge customers $10 a month for a hosting plan or charge them based on factors such as total bandwidth, CPU or memory usage by the unit multiplier of your choosing.  The Mint Panel billing system is completely customizable so you have a tremendous amount of flexibility.

 

Conclusion

 

Mint Panel is an all-one-control panel that can be useful in a wide range of environments.  Aside from the qualities mentioned here, it also offers the secure and scalable platform needed to excel in the hosting business.  Expect to hear more about this control panel as it continues to make its rounds and increase in popularity.