What is the internet? The word ‘internet’ is short for ‘internetwork’ – a compilation of interconnecting computer networks via special gateways and routers that all use the standard Internet Protocol Suite (TCP/PIP) to converse with each other. In simpler words, the internet is made up of millions of varying computers worldwide, able to transmit data (e.g. web pages, e-mail messages, images, etc) to each other via special internet ports and ‘protocols’. The word ‘internet’ and ‘the web’ are often used inter-changeably today.
How do you find things on the web?
Every web site has what is called an IP address. An IP address is similar to a mailing address in that it represents a specific ‘place’, only on the internet places are computers or websites – not physical land locations. IP addresses are unique strings of numbers separated by periods. They look something like this: 123.16.132.156. Each IP number is a label or identifier for a particular site, machine or piece of equipment on the web. For ease of use in surfing the web, each IP address is mapped to a domain name. That way, people don’t have to remember a string of numbers. They simply type the domain name of the site instead, or type a search in a search engine for a list of related places.
Why do you need web hosting?
Although you do not need your own website to be an affiliate marketer, many end up with a site of their own anyway. There are many reasons. Some may want to blog about their activities. Others may wish to highlight and market certain products from it. Others might just want a professional looking e-mail address associated with a domain name of their choice. You need a web hosting service for all of these things.
What is web hosting?
If you want to publish your own website or have your own e-mail addresses unique to your domain name, you’ll need a “web hosting service.” Web hosts store your website pages and e-mail messages on one of their many machines and link your domain name to its associated IP address. When somebody enters your domain name into their browser’s address field, or sends a message to one of your e-mail addresses, the IP address is located and your pages/messages are loaded from the web host.
What are the different types of hosting?
There are basically three types:
Shared hosting: One machine (server) shared by many clients. This type of hosting is usually cheaper, but also has its cons. They tend to be more problematic as hundreds or even thousands of sites may reside on them at the same time – each performing different processes and functions which have the potential to impact each other.
Virtual Private Server (VPS): VPS machines are shared between four and twenty people, but the separation between the clients is more defined with fewer shared resources. It is more difficult for a single customer to bring down the entire server, though it is still possible. Plus you get “root” access, sort of like a dedicated server.
Dedicated Server: A dedicated server is exactly what it sounds like; an entire server dedicated to you and you alone. You may put on it what you like. You impact only yourself, and no one else impacts you. This is the most stable type of hosting, but also the most expensive in most cases.
There is a fourth type, still quite new, known as cloud hosting. In cloud hosting, resources are metered out via a platform of different servers – some shared, some dedicated, etc. It is a combination of the other three types with one added layer of virtualization. Cloud hosting is a bit less risky than the other forms since hardware failures are more easily compensated for (i.e. another machine simply takes over where one leaves off).
Hosting Features
When selecting a hosting company and package, you want to ensure they can support your various needs. For instance, make sure your plan has enough disk space, speed, RAM (if dedicated) etc. You may also want to look for extra features like a nice, standardized control panel and an easy to use e-mail web client.
Final Tips
One of the best ways to select a good host is through word of mouth. If you are oscillating between two that look compelling, ask a friend to share their experiences or read online reviews. You cannot underestimate the value of a good referral.
Finally, if you find yourself dealing with someone who is incompetent at the hosting company – or discover being ineffectual seems to be business-as-usual with them – do not waste your time wallowing in frustration. There are plenty of excellent service providers out there. Move on. At the same time, understand that ‘stuff happens’. No host can be perfect. It is inherently impossible with so many layers of software and hardware to have a flawless experience year after year. One snafu does not necessarily mean the host is a ‘bad’ host. What is most important is that they understand and address issues as they arise. Hosting in general is a precarious industry. With this in mind, it is always a good idea to have a back-up host waiting in the wings; just in case you need to find a new home quickly!
