It can be difficult to find the right web host server to fit the exact needs of your business. You may need to do a lot of research and talk to a lot of business owners to find the provider that meets your needs. The following information will give you head start in finding the best web host company for you and your business needs.

Do not choose the first web host provider that pops up on a Google search. You need to compare prices and check features before deciding where to make your website’s home. Check personal references if you can and research reviews that are honest and objective. Try to find reviews that focus on specific features, customer service and technical support and downtime. If the company has more that 1 or 2 percent downtime, keep looking for a more reliable provider.

Make sure you have enough web space to contain your web pages and an adequate amount of bandwidth to handle your website’s traffic. Find out if you can include addon domains as your business continues to grow.

Do not trust companies that have no security in place to protect your customers’ information and your company databases. Avoid companies that have no physical address or are based out of a foreign country. Protect yourself by utilizing the services of a company that is required to live up to the same standards as your company must abide by.

Always familiarize yourself with the provider’s Terms of Service. Some companies have bizarre rules that are necessary for them but make no sense to you. If your business needs conflict with a service provider’s Terms of Service, you will have to switch companies or alter your website.

Some web host providers offer money back guarantees or trial periods. Take advantage of these to see how the server performs. It is important to note that you may get special attention during your trial period so if the service is below par, it will only get worse if you sign a contract. Use this time to monitor your traffic and make sure you have adequate bandwidth. Contact customer service and request help from technical support. Make sure your issues are properly resolved and check the turnaround time for problems to be addressed. Check with customer support services at all hours and during the weekend to make sure the service is always professional.

Find out if your servers IPS has been blacklisted. A blacklisted IPS will mean undelivered email that is meant for customers. Your email may be redirected to a spam folder or it may be deleted by your customer’s email provider. If your web host provider has been blacklisted, you need to inform your customers that email from your website may end up in their spam folders.

Never assume that the cost of an web host provider will determine its ability to serve your needs. You must balance the expense against the features that are important to your business needs. Comparing the benefits of each web hosting company will help you make a well-educated choice with which you can be confident.