How to choose web hosting billing software
Numerous web hosting billing software options are available. This guide provides an overview to help web hosts choose the most suitable web hosting billing software for their needs.
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Cost
Some billing software programs for web hosts are open source (free), while most are commercial and available in these payment options (depending on the program):
- A leased license for a recurring monthly or annual fee
- An owned or perpetual license for a one-time fee
Some web hosts offer specific billing software licenses and/or pre-installed billing software programs with reseller and dedicated web hosting accounts. Depending on the web host, pre-installed programs might be open source or commercial.
Open source programs have the advantage that they're free. Disadvantages are that features are limited, you might have to pay for support, and the software might not be as easy to use as paid alternatives. Also, if you switch to paid software later, you'll have the inconvenience of transferring all your records to it.
Features
Specific features vary for each billing software program. Some common features:
Accounts
- Web host account provisioning
- Ability to upgrade or downgrade plans
Billing and payments
- Automated billing and invoicing
- Recurring billing: monthly, semi-annually, annually, any-month
- Automated payment tracking
- Support for a range of payment gateways
- Bills sent via email, PDF, or other methods
Support methods
- Knowledgebase
- Integrated helpdesk support system
Domain names
- Automated domain name registration
- Works with a range of domain extensions
- Can provide free domains with hosting packages
- Supports domain renewals and transfers
Other
- Multiple language support
- Unbranded
- Customization options
Note that some billing software programs are tailored specifically for web hosts while others are intended for web hosting companies and for other types of uses. With the latter type, not all features will be just for web hosts.
Compatibility
Each web hosting billing software program is compatible with some control panels, some domain registrars, and some payment gateways. Check that the ones you're looking at are compatible with everything else that you're using or would like to use.
If the program is not pre-installed with your web hosting account, check for server and (if applicable) minimum PHP and MySQL requirements.
Summary
To evaluate a web hosting billing system, look for ones within your budget that have the features you want and will work with what you have. Read reviews on them and try out their demos. In addition to your current needs, consider your future needs.
See also
Web Hosting Wiki article text shared under a Creative Commons License.
