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15 Myths About Free Website Hosting

Free Web hosting surely sounds a lot tempting and something you would never want to miss out isn’t it? If web hosting was free, everyone would have used it right. Well, there are some web hosting services who actually host sites for free, but still not everyone opts for those free web hosting services. Want to know the reason why?

Well, free web hosting services don’t come with dependable web hosting options. They do not come with assured quality and performance. This can keep your website’s performance uncertain and can cost you your business. Being the reason why free web hosting can turn out to be dangerous.

Here we are to help you out with the following discussion where we will bust some of the widely revolved myths and facts about free website hosting. We will also help you understand which type of website hosting & service provider should be preferred among free and paid providers. 

But Firstly,

What is Web Hosting?

Web Hosting refers to hosting of the website disk space to host any business’s website on the web. It functions like an HDD or SSD drive to store and manage website media files like images, videos, fonts, notes, content, etc. This website and hosting are assigned a website domain on the IP based on the website’s location. Under this domain, the website appears on web.

How does web hosting work?

Well, it works normally as we search on the search engines. It works basically like – 

1. Type in the domain name of the website in the browser.
2. The browser will direct you to the domain listed
3. The domain will then redirect you to the ultimate website hosting through IP address.
4. The website opens and you can view and navigate the websites files on the website.

The only success factor for having a result seeking website hosting is through reliable hosting companies. These reliable hosting providers offer great loading speed and features of web server that will increase the performance of your website by miles.

Free web hosting

What is Free Hosting?

Whenever the word “FREE” arrives everyone gets attracted to it regardless of understanding what could be the outcomes. However, when it comes to website hosting, free website hosting will just save your money not your website!

Free web hosting usually comes with generic features. They do not come with reliable features like guaranteed 99.9% uptime, standard bandwidth and performance, SSD drive space, etc. 

How does it Work?

Firstly, the way free web hosting happens is itself not at all possible without bearing extra costs. Even the free website hosting companies cannot get anything for free. They will also have to bear hardware costs of SSD, HDD, drive, RAM, processor, etc. Along with that it would need a probable engineer and a regular space maintenance to manage the upkeep of the hosting providing server

So anyhow it would involve costs. Still some web hosting companies offer their customers web hosting services for free to promote their web hosting digital marketing strategies. This attracts customers and ultimately leads to increase in purchases. Though free web hosting offer cost-efficient advantages, it still lacks with disadvantages in performance. 

In the following blog, we will be listing down some of the myths regarding free web hosting services by which you would fairly understand the free web hosting advantages and disadvantages.

15 Myths about Free Web Hosting –

Myth #1 – Free Web Hosting is 100% Free

When you land in a commercial value world, there’s nothing entirely free. Companies offering free services lack in credibility, performance and quality. Free versions will sooner or later will lead you to upgrade to premium plans with a reputed hosting provider. Also, free web hosting services are for a limited period only. This means, you would soon be asked to pay for the same. 

Myth #2 – Free Web hosting is great for Startups

Even if it is your startup, free web hosting can cost your business millions. It can negatively affect your website conversions and rankings with contaminated site building tools like slow loading times, poor page performance and appearance, information leakages, casual addresses, and risk of shutting down. Free website hosting companies never guarantee you qualified performance.

Myth #3 – Free Web Hosting is Safe

Many of the free web hosting providers do not offer SSL certificates in the free web hosting services offered by them. For security measures like SSL and DDOS protection, you would have to specially upgrade your plans which will then incur you charges for sure. This exposes your online visibility to various hackers and other malpractices to steal your confidential information easily.

Myth #4 – Good Web hosts are Expensive

Well not all good host are expensive! Even paid web hosting services are utmost worthful to your money as they bring you performance and ultimately profits. They sustain your web presence with great power, bandwidth, uptime, and security to make sure your business strives through its noteworthy advantage and benefits. Most importantly when you employ a paid web hosting provider, everything from head to toe is managed by them itself. So, you can focus more on your venture without worrying much of your web hosting.

Myth #5 – Free Web Hosts allow the same Monetization Opportunities

Most of the free web hosting service providers try to take your website as a medium for their advertisements. They try to run their ads, AdSense, and attach affiliate links on your website. Also, many free web hosting providers would also aim to restrict you to monetize blog as they would already have their ads being posted on your website.

Myth #6 – Free Web Hosts will Backup your Website

Most of the free versions of the web hosting plans would never come with inclusive backup services. If there are no backup services, then it would lead to a high risk and failure to restore information by any chance.

Myth #7 – Free Web Hosting provides E-Commerce Features

Ecommerce or say the online store requires a huge amount of hosting power to make the websites run smoothly even during high traffics. Most of the free web hosting platforms won’t provide you such power along with database access and SSL certification or security measures guaranteed. This could cost your ecommerce website intensively as it would need to hold a lot of confidential information about your customers as well.

Myth #8 – Free Web Hosts have their Own Data Centers

Many of the free web hosting providers will try to hint as if they have their own data center with private servers. Though, unless it is explicitly mentioned by them with full authorization, never believe them! Free hosting solutions are generally made cost-effective and are not made with big investments. On the other hand, a paid hosting solution would guarantee you utmost command over data centers and their servers that is streamlined with extreme security protection. You are also allowed with free database access without any restrictions.

Paid hosting service

Myth #9 – You can Easily improve your Free Website

Free web hosting services don’t come with the plugins and latest scripts. They are very generic and can’t allow your website and server to be customized easily. So if you want to move up the ladder in this web game, you would have to upgrade to paid plans anyhow.

Myth #10 -Unwanted Advertisements destroy the websites hosted under a free host

As discussed before, free web hosts will try to run their own advertisements on your websites. They also run their ads on high frequency which loses the reputation of your host website and also loses interests of your visitors. This will ultimately decrease your own website’s subdomain and profile.

Myth #11 – Free Web Hosting comes with Free Support

Well, support services are not offered mostly by free hosting services. You won’t get any technical support or guidance to run your website or to fix any problem. Instead, paid web hosts are the best web host who offer you 24/7 technical support services for all your web hosting related problems.

Myth #12 – Free Web Hosting is great for Small Businesses

Free web hosting plans are of no costs generally but could be highly costly for any website’s progress regardless of any size or need. Free hosting plans do not guarantee you quality performance which might ultimately lead your small businesses and startup’s reputation go in vain without even getting developed. Free web hosting can lead to poor user experience and lower clicks which will ultimately have negative impacts on your conversion rates.

Myth #13 – Free Hosting has plenty of features

Free website hosting is actually the opposite. As they are free, they just come with basic web hosting features that just launch your website on web. They are vulnerable to various security threats and will surely level down your website’s performance sooner or later. Instead, paid hosting services are assured and guaranteed with powerful features and services that will keep your websites updated and responsive every time. 

Myth #14 – Only HTML is supported by Free Web Hosts

Nowadays, many free hosts support not only the static websites but also the other website development like PHP, ASP, MySQL, SSI and CGI-BIN.

Myth #15 – Limited Bandwidth and Disk Space

Bandwidth and Disk space are actually not much of a problem when you go along with free website hosting services. Though they are not limited to a lower extent as on an average you might get 5 GB of bandwidth and 250 MB of storage. Still, they are limited above that as you would have to upgrade to a premium plan then. Though this level of bandwidth and disk space might not be as finite resource for established businesses to generate good website performance and yield website traffic they are aiming for. 

Tips for Free Hosting Account

• Always run legal sites from your free website and web hosting account.
• Never leave your website unattended for more than a month. 
• Always keep your site updated with fresh graphics and content.
• Read the Terms and Conditions carefully.
• Make sure the free hosting site services are backed by customer and  technical support.
• Backup your files in regular intervals.

Ideastack hosting service

Conclusion:

Though as tempting as Free web hosting services sound, the more could be its pitfalls on your website’s performance. Yes, there are web hosting providers who offer free web hosting, but they would never guarantee you performance and reliability. Free web hosting services can be useful only when the usage is shortage, or the required bandwidth is less. Still, it will lose the battle when it comes to assured quality performance against reliable paid hosting service

The paid hosting services are considered the most excellent web hosting service to go with if you are aiming to produce some real quality performance with your website. The Uptime, security and unlimited bandwidth is guaranteed with the back of an experienced support team with paid web hosting.

Hence it is always recommendable to go for Paid web hosting services when it comes to free vs paid web hosting.  

Ideastack is the perfect destination to find the most reliable and secured paid web hosting services in the Industry. They guarantee up-time, maintain your backup, take deep measures for your security, and ensure maximum satisfaction. Browse through our Ideastack website today!

FAQ

1) What is Paid Hosting?

Paid hosting is the website hosting services you pay for. A customer paying for website hosting can expect advanced features along with Reliable & quality hosting services with high-end uptime, security, and performance. Though not every paid hosting is productive to host your own site. It is important to do a thorough research before and find the most affordable premium hosting that comes with quality features and then go for the same. 

2) Is free hosting preferred over paid hosting?

Well, honestly, in some situations free web hosting services proves to be the ideal solution. As it could be projects or for the Non-profit organizations.  Though paid web hosting is still the unraveled king in the world of web hosting when it comes to quality web page hosting with sheer performance and assured credibility. Paid hosting is a necessity for businesses looking to make it big on the web. 

Benefits of Unmetered Dedicated Servers

As businesses grow rapidly, the costs of data transfer become extremely high. This is all the more so when you are charged heavy fees by the web hosting service provider for using up more bandwidth than you were given. Therefore, the bandwidth average costs are starting to grow and this is particularly distressing for server owners. The only way to avoid this from happening is to go to with unmetered dedicated servers where there will be no such charges for uses for data transfer.

Benefits of Unmetered Dedicated Server

This form of hosting also ends up being the best choice for gamers and website owners who may have unpredictable bandwidth requirements. You can save a lot of money by choosing unmetered hosting and enjoy a variety of extra benefits in the process.

1. Flexibility

Flexibility in Unmetered Dedicated Servers

Without a doubt, the biggest benefit is Flexibility. You will never think about using too much bandwidth or getting overages charged for using more than your monthly allotment. This means that you have the flexibility to use as much bandwidth as you like, in whatever capability you like best.

2. Great Performance

Great Performance in Unmetered Dedicated Servers

If you are more focused on remaining within bandwidth limitations you cannot maximize the functionality of your website. Unmetered servers don’t have this problem here. You can customize the functionality of your website, eCommerce store, forum, gaming server or any other platform that you use your unmetered hosting package for. So, you will never be going to think about your results suffering because of your bandwidth.

3.  Additional Security And Peace Of Mind

Additional Security And Peace Of Mind in Unmetered Dedicated Servers

You will enjoy the peace of mind and additional security for your website by using unmetered servers. That is because depending on the amount of bandwidth at hand, you don’t have to decide between security updates and security add-ons. Implement as many security features as you want without bandwidth issues on your website, email server or other networks.

4. Save Money

Save Money in Unmetered Dedicated Servers

You can save a lot of money. If you end up using more data transfer or bandwidth than you actually charged for hosting multiple websites, you can incur high overcharge costs. Unmetered servers are often a more secure option in this trade.

If you would like to find out more about our unmetered dedicated server choices or have general questions about our dedicated hosting, please contact Ideastack. We will be pleased to provide additional information and advice to help you arrive at the right decision.

Read Our Other Blogs:-

VPS vs. Dedicated Server: Which Is Best for You?

What makes VPS Cloud Hosting stand out amongst the other Web Hosting options

Different kinds of Web Hosting Services

Web Hosting: How You Can Take Advantage of It

Things to Know before Choosing Colocation or Dedicated Server Hosting

Web Hosting: How You Can Take Advantage of It

In the digital era, web hosting has become a cornerstone for businesses and individuals alike. It’s the backbone that supports your online presence, whether you’re running a blog, a personal website, or a thriving e-commerce platform. 

This article delves into the intricacies of web hosting, especially focusing on how you can leverage it for e-commerce.

Understanding Web Hosting

Before we dive into specifics, it’s crucial to understand what web hosting entails. At its core, web hosting is a service that allows individuals and organizations to post a website or web page onto the Internet. 

A web host, also known as a web hosting service provider, is a company that offers the technologies and services required for a website or webpage to be viewed on the Internet.

The Importance of E-commerce in Today’s Market

E-commerce has changed the way we buy and conduct business. It’s no longer just a convenience but a necessity for businesses to reach a broader audience. E-commerce hosting provides numerous opportunities for growth in business websites.

Web hosting service provider, is a company that offers the technologies and services required for a website

E-commerce Hosting: A Gateway to Growth

E-commerce facilitating is more than just about keeping your site online; it’s about providing a robust platform for your business. It’s beneficial to use the web as a marketplace where you can present and sell your products. 

Web hosts offer advanced features that businesses can utilize effectively for managing their online stores.

Advanced E-commerce Features

1. Order processing

Streamlines the way orders are handled.

2. Invoice of payments

Simplifies the billing process.

3. Tracking of sales

Helps in understanding customer behavior and sales trends.

Starting an Online Business with Ease

Web hosting eases the process of creating a business online as it already provides owners with special features inherent in starting up web stores. For instance, web hosting in India companies set up your account once you avail of their services. 

This includes registration of a domain name, e-commerce software, and database support, often without extra charges.

E-commerce hosting providing a robust platform for your business.

Key Features for E-commerce Sites

1. Shopping cart

Allows customers to store items before purchase.

2. Payment processors

Facilitate secure payment options.

3. Diverse product range

Supports the sale of tangible goods to online software.

Additional Features for Enhanced Functionality

Beyond the basic e-commerce functionalities, site owners can add features like blogs and forums. Web host companies offer easy-to-use applications to manage these additions efficiently.

Scaling Your Business with the Right Hosting Plan

As your business grows, the need for a more robust hosting solution becomes evident. Small business owners often start with less expensive hosting plans. However, as site traffic increases, upgrading to a server that can handle this increase is crucial.

It’s essential to carefully consider your options to maximize the services offered by your chosen server.

Conclusion

In conclusion, web hosting, particularly for e-commerce, is an invaluable asset in today’s digital landscape. It not only provides a platform for your business to operate but also offers tools and features that can significantly enhance your online presence and sales.

From advanced e-commerce features to scalability options, choosing the right web hosting service is a critical decision that can dictate the success of your online venture.

Frequently Asked Question

Q1. What features should I look for in an e-commerce web hosting service?

Look for features like order processing, invoice payments, tracking of sales, shopping cart functionality, secure payment processors, and scalability options.

Q2. How does web hosting benefit small business owners?

Web hosting offers small business owners an affordable and efficient way to establish an online presence, with options to scale as the business grows.

Q3. Can I add additional features like blogs to my e-commerce site?

Yes, many web hosting services offer easy-to-use applications that allow you to add extra features like blogs and forums to your e-commerce site.

Things to Look for in Cheap Shared Web Hosting

When starting a new business, managing costs is crucial, and this includes choosing the right web hosting. Cheap shared web hosting can be an excellent choice for startups and small businesses due to its affordability and efficiency.

However, there are key factors to consider to ensure that the hosting service meets your growing business’s needs.

Shared Hosting

1.What is Shared Hosting?

Shared hosting involves hosting multiple websites on a single server, sharing resources like bandwidth and storage. While cost-effective, this can lead to potential issues like server downtime or slower page loads if one site overuses resources.

2.Choice of Operating System

Shared hosting typically offers two types of operating systems: Windows and Linux. Windows hosting, which requires a license fee, is ideal if your site uses ASP.NET and MYSQL.

Linux, on the other hand, is free and compatible with Python, PHP, Perl, and MySQL. Your choice should align with your website’s technical requirements.

3.Least Expensive Hosting Option

Shared hosting is the most budget-friendly option, especially for businesses with limited initial traffic and resource needs. The cost of server maintenance is divided among multiple users, making it an affordable choice.

However, be aware of its limitations and be prepared to move to a more robust hosting solution as your business grows.

4.What You Need from Cheap Shared Web Hosting

When choosing a shared hosting provider, consider these factors:

Uptime Guarantee

Look for at least 99% network uptime.

Server Load

Choose a provider that does not overload its servers with too many clients.

Support

Opt for providers that offer 24/7 support through email, live chat, and other channels.

Shared Web Hosting

5.Fully-Managed Services

Many cheap shared web hosting providers offer fully-managed services, where the provider handles all server-related tasks. This ensures optimal performance and resource management.

Businesses without IT expertise can particularly benefit from this, as it eliminates the need for hiring additional IT staff.

Conclusion

Cheap shared web hosting can be a smart start for new businesses, but it’s important to choose a provider that aligns with your specific needs.

Understanding the limitations and being ready to upgrade when necessary are key to ensuring that your hosting supports your business’s growth.

Frequently Asked Question

Q1.When should a business consider upgrading from shared hosting?

Upgrade when you experience frequent server crashes, slow page loads, or if your business outgrows the resources provided by shared hosting.

Q2.Is shared hosting secure for business websites?

Shared hosting can be secure, but it’s important to choose a provider that implements strong security measures and keeps software updated.

Q3.Can shared hosting handle e-commerce websites?

While shared hosting can support small e-commerce sites, businesses expecting high traffic or requiring extensive resources should consider more robust hosting options like VPS or dedicated hosting.

Comodo Threat Research Lab uncovers new trick used by hackers to attack enterprises  

In the ever-evolving world of cybersecurity, staying one step ahead of cybercriminals is of paramount importance. This month, the Comodo Threat Research Lab made a significant discovery that has the potential to reshape how enterprises view their email security.

A New Wave of Phishing Attacks

A different type of phishing email attack targeting enterprises using SWIFT monetary messaging services was discovered this month by Comodo Threat Research Lab. For those unfamiliar, SWIFT (Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication) messaging forces are employed by approximately 11,00 banking, business clients, and safety organizations

However, what’s alarming is the new method cybercriminals are employing. They are now targeting enterprises by sending phishing emails and planting malware directly in their inboxes.

These emails come with attachments, and the attackers cunningly direct the recipient to open the add-on to retrieve information about the amount that has been transferred to their chosen account.

But here’s the catch: the add-on is not what it seems. Instead of providing transaction details, it contains malware (Trojan.JAVA.AdwindRAT), which, once opened, infiltrates the user’s system.

Malicious files to establish a connection with a domain in a covertly encrypted network.

The Malware's Capabilities

Comodo has issued a stern warning regarding this malware’s capabilities. Not only can it disable the Windows restore option and the User Account Control, but it also functions as a cyber spy. This allows attackers to monitor the system and access detailed information about the enterprise network and its endpoints.

Comodo has issued a stern warning regarding this malware’s capabilities. Not only can it disable the Windows restore option and the User Account Control, but it also functions as a cyber spy. This allows attackers to monitor the system and access detailed information about the enterprise network and its endpoints.

Once the attackers have this wealth of information, they can introduce additional malware into the system, aiming to steal some of the organization’s most confidential data.

Hackers are essentially hiding in plain sight

The Psychology Behind the Attack

Comodo posits an interesting theory behind the hackers’ choice of using SWIFT systems. It’s all about human psychology. The excitement and arousal associated with money, especially concerning bank account transactions, make individuals more susceptible. By leveraging this, hackers are essentially hiding in plain sight, counting on human emotions to drive their malicious agenda.

Protection Against Such Attacks

For those seeking to fortify their defenses against such sophisticated attacks, Ideastack offers a VPS server with comprehensive protection for all system servers. Ensuring your systems are equipped with the latest security measures is the first step in safeguarding your enterprise’s valuable data.

Conclusion

In the digital age, the threat landscape is constantly shifting. With hackers employing ever more sophisticated methods, enterprises must stay informed and proactive. Thanks to institutions like Comodo Threat Research Lab, we can gain insights into these threats and take the necessary precautions. Remember, in cybersecurity, knowledge is the best defense.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What is the new phishing attack discovered by Comodo?

Comodo has discovered a phishing email attack targeting enterprises using SWIFT monetary messaging services. The attackers send emails with malicious attachments, misleading recipients into opening them, which then releases malware into their systems.

Q2. How does the Trojan. JAVA.AdwindRAT malware function?

Once inside a system, the malware can evolve, enter the registry, spawn processes, and even attempt to disable antivirus and anti-adware processes. It also drops malicious files to connect with a covertly encrypted domain.

Q3. How can enterprises protect themselves from such attacks?

Enterprises can consider solutions like Ideastack’s VPS server, which offers comprehensive protection for all system servers. Regular updates, employee training, and staying informed about the latest threats are also crucial.