Over the past couple of weeks I've been on forums reading current threads (and some from past months) and have become interested in expanding into the webhosting business. In previous threads, I see the median opinion is to start as a reseller and with an increased customer base and experience then venture off into buying servers, etc...

My inquiry is about how involved can a person be starting off as a reseller? Will that basis give me enough to really understand administration and support? Should I do more research even before acquiring reseller accounts?

I hate to get in over my head at the beginning and definitely willing to take the time out to provide great service and at the same time actually know what I'm doing on a technical side. At the same token, there is no better tutorial than practice itself, so... So, I felt I'd seek some input from the experience bunch here.

Thanks

Administration is limited to the control panel your host provides. Since you don't have root, theres not much administration you can do.

Therefore, two things you must strongly consider:

1- Admin Control Panel
This will be your tool box. Research it, learn all the pros and cons of using it

2- Research your host
Find a host, test their support out ... Take several for a test-spin. If you have any doubts then move on to another. Remember, the service/support you provide your clients is greatly influenced by your host

The only way to come out a winner in this industry is to provide superior customer support.

I found myself asking the same questions, what should I do, then I just went out and bought a reseller account. I have my site up for about 2 days, and have talked with some people about buying from me. Even though I know I wont make a lot of $$$ at first it is fun to know you own something on the web. My mother owns a site now. But it's just fun to learn teh control panel and learn your options. Don't think about it just do it.