This post is more than just a recommendation request. I did use the search button. :-)

I would like to get your opinions on what level of hardware/hosting plan I need for one of my clients.

Current stats:
~65 ecommerce orders per week
~5000 unique visitors per day

Requirements:
Win2k3
ASP.NET 3.5
MSSQL 2005

My first recommendation to them was RackSpace due their good reputation, but they were not able to pay for the plan suggested to them by RackSpace.

My other question is what type of plan do you guys recommend based on the above stats/requirements (managed/VPS/dedicated/etc.)? VPS is what came to mind for me since we'll probably end up using this setup for more than one website/domain and since they are so price sensitive.

I'm fairly comfortable setting up and administering Win2k3 and MSSQL. I'm sure that plays into the choices a little.

I know there is probably some information I have left out that would help you guys make a recommendation. Please just let me know what else would help.

Thanks in advance,
.brit

Hello,

IMHO it will much better to search for VPS hosting, it's more advance solution. Also take in mind that most shared asp.net hosting providers will charge you additional tax for SQL server database.

Regards

If this is an important website to you it would be best to get a Windows Dedicated server. Or you need to go with a professional web hosting provider that will suite your needs and take your ecommerce site seriously.

I'd agree with what was said above, a Windows VPS account would provide you with the flexibility, reliability and performance you'd need.
I'd go with an experienced Windows VPS provider.

Thanks for the replies.

I have been researching VPS providers. What do you guys think about kickassvps.com? They seem to be popular here and offer competitive prices.


thanks again,
.b

They seem to be popular, I would give their support a test drive and ask them the hard questions. I would also check to see if they virtualize the hardware and software.

I purchased their WinVPS Basic plan yesterday. They had everything setup within a couple of hours. They also have been very quick to respond to my support questions. So far I'm very happy with them. They also have a 30 day money back guarantee. Things may go to crap on day 31, but so far so good.

Thanks for the info.

Good to hear, support is where it counts. The cheapest plan doesn't always mean the best. Hope all goes well.

Thanks.

I'll post an update in a few weeks so that others can benefit from my positive or negative experience.