Marketing pages make every host look the same. A better approach is to start from what your site needs, then check each provider against that list.
1. Define your workload
A five-page portfolio, a WordPress blog and an online store have very different needs. Estimate expected traffic, storage, and whether you need a database, PHP, Node.js or email.
2. Check the technology stack
Confirm the PHP versions, database engines, SSL support, and whether the plan supports the languages and frameworks you use.
3. Look beyond the headline price
Introductory prices often renew at higher rates. Compare the renewal price, the billing period required for the discount, and any fees for domains, backups or migration.
4. Backups and recovery
Ask how often backups run, how long they are kept, and whether you can restore them yourself. Keep your own offsite copy regardless.
5. Performance and location
Server location affects latency for your audience. Test a trial site if possible, and measure rather than trust claims.
6. Support quality
Ask a pre-sales technical question and see how fast and how clearly it is answered. That is a useful preview of future support.
7. Security basics
- Free SSL certificates
- Two-factor authentication on the account
- Regular software updates
- Clear malware and abuse policies
8. Plan your exit
Check how easy it is to export your files, database and email. Good hosts do not trap you.