Should I get a server to host my own site?
As an outsourced IT department for small to medium sized businesses, we often get asked by clients if they should buy a server to host their own website. Without fail the answer is always an emphatic NO!
The reasons are simple:
- Cost is the number one reason. In fact, all of the reasons below can be avoided by spending enough money. If you have to buy your own server, support it, and have an infrastructure that will allow it, you will be out thousands of dollars. The cost of hosting most a small business website is minimal – often less than $20/month.
- Security is also important to keep in mind. As a general rule, you need to be extremely careful when allowing any outside unauthenticated users into your network. For a web server that generally means you need to partition off part of your network (called a DMZ) to allow for this access. This means you will need a more advanced network firewall appliance and more labor to configure this type of configuration.
- Reliability plays a large role when deciding to host a web server on your own network or finding a third party company to host it for you. Companies that host websites generally have the infrastructure in place to keep that server online. This generally (but not always) means redundant data centers and internet lines, special power conditioners and backup battery systems made to keep servers online for a long time. Also this means high powered air conditioning systems, physical security to keep your server safe from theft and vandalism, and they have staff to monitor your server 24/7. Small businesses just can’t beat the royal treatment hosting your server with a hosting company gives you.
With that said, there is a caveat. If you are a larger company with a massive website, or you have extremely sensitive data collected from your website, you MAY benefit from private hosting. This would include having a third-party company host an entire server for you, instead of just renting part of a server that is used by many people. This will allow you to have full control over your server, and would prevent the staff of the hosting company from potentially* gaining access to your sensitive information.
That’s great, but now what?
So you now know not to host your website locally, now you need to determine who your web-host will be.
- First, determine what your needs are. Do you need a private server (can be over $100/month if you want this), or do you just want one? Private servers are great, but most businesses don’t keep data on their web server that is so sensitive that it requires a private server. If you’re not sure, ask your web designer if any sensitive data is stored or will be stored in files or databases on your web server. You may also need a private server if you expect a HUGE amount of traffic, but that is generally not a concern unless you have a bigger business or host huge files.
- Next, find a host that will match your needs. You should also keep in mind e-mail needs as well, but that isn’t absolutely necessary. E-mail hosts and web hosts don’t HAVE to be the same company (although it’s often easier if it is). Below are two hosts that I highly recommend.
I hope this helps in your path to find a great webhost. Technology planning takes a lot of foresight, and there are ALWAYS ‘gotchas’ to keep in mind. It’s always important to consult someone who is knowledgeable and can help you navigate the confusing and frustrating decisions that need to be made. Expedient Technology would love to assist you in that navigation.
If you are looking for a great host, here are two recommendations:
- Web Hosting: theogdengroup.net
Founded by Tom Ogden, theogdengroup.net provides GREAT service at a reasonable price. Our website is hosted there. If you are looking for a great web designer, they do that as well! - Private Server Hosting: NetRiver
I’ve personally toured the facilities that NetRiver uses for their server hosting, and I would trust them with any of my clients servers.
-Michael Curnutt, President
*For the record, I’ve never had to worry about a web host accessing my data, but for some businesses this is a concern. Both companies recommended above I have full confidence in, and would tell you that you never need to worry about them accessing your personal information.
Need help with the above article? Looking for a geek that has turned consultant? Let Expedient Technology be your IT department. Serving the greater Everett area, we are happy to be your partner for all things tech. Contact us.
