What Is Shared Web Hosting?
If you are looking around for web hosting options, especially budget ones, then the term “shared hosting” will appear quite frequently. So exactly what is shared web hosting? It is the least expensive available option, so it is also the most popular for those building their first website. There are many benefits to this hosting package, but it will not suit everyone. So before you make any decision, it is advisable to explore your options and make sure that it is best for your hosting needs.
Shared Web Hosting Explained
What is shared web hosting? Your website files and pages need to be kept on a server which then connects to the Internet, allowing people to view and access your site. Simply put, the shared web hosting allows a number of different websites to utilise a single server. You share the resource with other websites, but have private access to your account. It’s an economical option but can come with some limitations, including resources.
Your provider will be responsible for all the general server maintenance and any upgrades required. Every customer will usually have a limit on the total amount of server resources they can use, such as disc space and bandwidth. This is defined in your hosting package. You will not receive any help to maintain your site in the hosting package, but you will have access to monitor traffic, install apps and upload files.
Disadvantages Of Sharing Resources
If you are still asking the question “what is shared web hosting?” then you need to be aware of the few disadvantages of the system. While using a shared hosting provider like Miss Hosting is a great solution for many, it will not suit all sites. Although the server is robust, it can have a slower load time than dedicated servers. It can also become overburdened by other websites, so it is not always suitable for high traffic sites or those that experience spikes of visitors.
You do not know who your neighbours are so there is also a very small risk to the security of your site. Also, there may be restrictions on some customised functions or applications that you require to optimise your website and get the most from it. As you grow and your site becomes more popular, the resource restrictions can become an issue too. If you start using too much bandwidth, you may then have to look for other alternatives.