I am starting a Fantasy Sports web business.

I will need at least 2 domain names.
Unlimited email addresses
Unlimited ftp
1Gb storage
how much bandwidth do I need?

I will be using a phpbb message board.

What should I do about memberships?
I don't want to use Paypal, is there another way I can get them to pay using a credit card without going through one of these sites?

also, what should I use for databases?

all suggestions and info is appreciated.

how much bandwidth do I need?

Hmm, the amount of bandwidth you'll need is judged on the amount of visits/hits you get to your site.

I don't want to use Paypal, is there another way I can get them to pay using a credit card without going through one of these sites?

There are many hosting businesses that will process credit cards without you needing anything complex like PayPal etc.

also, what should I use for databases?

If you mean for phpBB, then you'd be best using MySQL (http://www.mysql.com) -- but all that is explained on the phpBB website (http://www.phpbb.com).

There are many hosting businesses that will process credit cards without you needing anything complex like PayPal etc.


tell me more about this please?

Now here is on you to decide about PAYPAL.

PAYPAL Advantages:
==================
1. PayPal is easy and cheap to use. You do not need a merchant account, credit card terminal, processing software, and you only have minor development costs.
2. Time to market. You can set up a PayPal account to accept payments in minutes.
3. Offers user another payment option. 25 million people have PayPal accounts.

PAYPAL Disadvantages:
1. the user needs to leave your web site to complete the transaction. This can be seen as unprofessional and also confusing to the user.
2. asking the user to give personal information to an organization they may not be familiar with.
3. entire order data is not in your database unless you ask for it twice.
4. any complaint about PayPal becomes a complaint against you.
5. you do not have the flexibility that you may need for things like shipping charges, design, reporting and handling returns.

Nainil.

Originally posted by Milk
tell me more about this please?

Example is 2checkout.com. You create Products or Recurring products in your Admin Panel, then link your product in your website (images, text) accordingly to these products you created in your Admin Panel at 2checkout. Your buyer will be brought to a secure payment page provided for you.

Testing reply.

Originally posted by anon-e-mouse
Testing reply.

Pfft! Postcount bumper!! :D

That is a very nice and clean summary of the advantages and disadvantages of using PayPal, nainil.

I actually did make a post a couple of days ago on what software/infrastructure you need, or are recommended for a hosting business. I'll check it up and paste it here for your convenience.

Originally posted by UH-Matt
Pfft! Postcount bumper!! :D
Well I could fix broken threads like I used to, by creating a new thread, merging, then testing reply. But there is an easier way now and all I get it is people saying I am boosting my post count :bawling: Maybe I will go back to the old way :D At least that way I don't have to explain my actions. ;)

Originally posted by UH-Matt
Pfft! Postcount bumper!! :D
:emlaugh:    Actually not... In Anon's defense, I sent her an email that the thread appeard broken, as Laura4u seemed to have attempted several times to post to it, and failed...


Ooops! She beat me to the explanation...








....post bump...

After reading those books, get a practice server, and try to break it. Most important of all, try and fix it. Of course you should refer to books and online manuals to help you.. it's all part of the process. Once you've got that part covered, make sure you get a server from a stable network (eg. NAC, RackShack, ThePlanet, etc.). Since the abovementioned companies provide unmanged services, you might want to have a standby support company that you can fall back on, or refer to in case you need any help. You could look at the job requests forum - should be able to pick someone knowledgable there. Then make sure your server is secured (don't run unnecessary services, close unused ports, constantly upgrade your kernel, OS, any software etc.). Also install monitoring software like SIM and a firewall (I'd recommend APF from r-fx.net). You'll need a control panel, and I recommend Ensim PRO with a custom skin developed - though some people might prefer cPanel, Ensim PRO is definitely much more secure and will save you some headache. Now in order to attract people to your site, you'll need some advertising, and hopefully an attractive design, preferably from Ceonex (again, this is only my recommendation). Have a good business model and make sure you add support and sales staff as you grow -- don't overburden yourself and make sure you give back to your clients what they give to you. You'll need a good support desk/live chat software, and I recommend Kayako eSupport v2 and LiveResponse v2 respectively. You'll need a good billing software to take care of accounts also - i'll recommend Modernbill, and Worldpay as a payment processor.

In the above "dream" model, much of the software/services used are very costly, some are free. You can definitely switch them for alternatives.

The above was a reply to a thread regarding recommended Linux books and tips to run an unmanaged server.