Web Hosting Talk : Web Hosting Main Forums : Web Hosting : advice on hosting for new ecommerce + forum site

[spoons]

Hi folks,

We're looking to move our static site hosted on a shared Linux/cPanel server with eUKhost to a new provider to accomodate our new ecommerce + forum site [WAMP environment]. I can't knock eUKhost for support - the've been fantastic but I am willing to look into alternative suppliers.

I've read about 'load balanced', VPS and of-course dedicated servers but I'm not sure what would suit us. We're not a massive company [we sell <10 products] and anticipate around 120 orders a month and the forum will have light/moderate usage.

Our criteria is as follows :

- Speed i.e. no lagging
- cPanel / fantastico etc.
- MUST have round the clock support [i.e. not a provider which simply slaps a 24/7 logo on their site]. Ideally, a host which offers live chat with 'real' and 'down to earth' operators always on hand.

- I'm not sure what we should be paying for this but would like to pay as little as possible. This thread is more about 'what' we should go for as opposed to 'how much' we should pay.

- preferably a UK based host

I would sincerely appreciate suggestions and recommendations - especially from store owners.

[MannDude]

Your requirements seem rather basic, there shouldn't be an issue in finding a nice new home for your e-commerce site and forum.

Do you know how much disk space and monthly transfer you're currently using? Knowing this information can really help you narrow down providers. You don't want to go with someone who offer's "too good to be true" packages with vast amounts of disk/transfer. That is a sure sign of irresponsible overselling and could lead to performance issues. You should seek a provider that allows your web site room to grow, but stay away from the obvious over sellers.

What is your monthly budget?

Have you had a look at the WebHostingTalk Offers Forum?

Good luck! I hope you find a provider to take care of you.