What should be included in a web hosting package? What is the best basic web hosting plan?

Typically you should receive at the very least the following in your basic web hosting plan: 

File Management:

• File Manager
• FTP Accounts
• Backup Tools
• Disk Usage Monitoring

Databases:

• MySQL Databases
• phpMyAdmin
• PostgreSQL Databases (if supported)

Domains Features:

• Addon Domains
• Subdomains
• Aliases
• DNS Zone Editor

Email:

• Email Accounts
• Webmail
• Email Forwarders
• Autoresponders
• Spam Filters

Security:

• SSL/TLS Management
• IP Blocker
• Hotlink Protection
• SSH Access

Software:

• Application Installer (e.g., Softaculous)
• PHP Version Selector
• Perl Modules
• Site Software

Metrics:

• Awstats
• Error Log
• Bandwidth Monitoring
• Raw Access Logs

Advanced:

• Cron Jobs
• Apache Handlers
• MIME Types
• Custom Error Pages

Here is a checklist table to make it easier when you decide on choosing a web hosting plan:

Web Hosting Features Checklist:

These features cover various aspects of web hosting, providing tools for file management, database administration, domain management, email setup, security measures, software and application support, website metrics, and advanced server management. They are essential for maintaining and optimizing a website and its associated server environment.

We will go into detail later in the post about what all these features are in web hosting and why they should be included in a web hosting package. 

Types of web hosting 

But first Web hosting plans come in all shapes and sizes, before we dive into what should be included in a web hosting package we need to take a look at the main hosting types offered by hosting companies. 

Shared Hosting 

A shared hosting plan is a type of web hosting service where multiple websites are hosted on a single server. This means that the server’s resources, such as the CPU, memory, and bandwidth, are shared among all the websites on that server. Shared hosting is a cost-effective option for individuals and small businesses who are looking to establish an online presence without the need for dedicated resources. It is a suitable solution for websites with low to moderate levels of traffic and resource usage. However, since resources are shared, the performance of a website on a shared hosting plan can be affected by the activities of other websites on the same server. Despite this, shared hosting remains a popular choice for those looking for affordable and simple web hosting solutions. 

Managed WordPress Hosting

 WordPress hosting is a type of web hosting specifically designed to cater to the needs of WordPress websites. It offers a range of features that are optimized for WordPress, such as one-click installations, automatic updates, and built-in security measures. WordPress hosting also typically includes features like specialized customer support, WordPress-specific caching, and enhanced website performance. This type of hosting is ideal for users who want to build and manage their WordPress websites without dealing with the technical aspects of hosting. By choosing a WordPress hosting plan, users can ensure that their websites are running on a platform that is specifically tailored to the needs of their WordPress site, allowing for greater performance and easier management.

Dedicated Hosting 

 A dedicated web hosting plan is a type of hosting service where the client leases an entire physical server solely for their own use. This means that the client has full control and flexibility over the server, including the operating system, hardware, and other resources. Dedicated hosting plans are ideal for websites that receive high amounts of traffic or require a high level of security, as the client does not have to share server resources with anyone else. This type of hosting is also well-suited for businesses or organizations that have specific technical requirements or need to run custom applications. While dedicated web hosting plans tend to be more expensive than shared hosting, the benefits of performance, security, and control make them a popular choice for many businesses.

VPS Hosting 

A VPS (Virtual Private Server) web hosting plan is a service that allows businesses and individuals to have their own dedicated virtual server within a larger physical server. This means that a VPS hosting plan provides more control and flexibility compared to shared hosting, as users have full root access and the ability to install any software or applications they need. With a VPS, users also have greater security and performance, since they are not sharing resources with other users. Additionally, VPS hosting plans typically offer scalable resources, allowing users to easily upgrade or downgrade their server resources as needed. Overall, a VPS web hosting plan is a great option for businesses and individuals who require more control, flexibility, and security for their websites or applications. 

Cloud Hosting 

A Cloud web hosting plan is a type of web hosting service that utilizes multiple servers to satisfy the demands of its users. Unlike traditional web hosting, where a website is hosted on a single server, cloud hosting spreads the load across multiple interconnected servers. This means that if one server fails, the others can step in to ensure the website stays online with minimal disruption. Cloud web hosting also offers flexibility and scalability, allowing users to easily upgrade their resources as their website grows. Additionally, the pay-as-you-go pricing model of cloud hosting allows users to only pay for the resources they actually use, making it a cost-effective option for many businesses and individuals.

Web hosting management tools

Now that we know a little bit more about the main different hosting types offered by hosting providers we also need to understand the web hosting management tool behind the hosting, this is the interface you will be using to interact with your hosting server.  Having gained some knowledge about the various types of hosting offered by providers, it’s important to also familiarize ourselves with the web hosting management tool that powers the hosting. This interface will be the means through which you interact with your hosting server. 

 Cpanel 

Cpanel is a web-based control panel that provides a graphical interface and automation tools designed to simplify the process of hosting a website. Its pros include user-friendly interface, wide range of features, and compatibility with various operating systems. Cpanel also offers robust security measures and regular updates to ensure the safety of the website. However, some cons of Cpanel include its cost, as it is a paid service, and its relatively high system requirements. Additionally, some users may find the interface overwhelming due to the multitude of features and options available. Overall, Cpanel is a popular choice for website management due to its ease of use and comprehensive features, but it may not be suitable for users with limited technical knowledge or on a tight budget.

Plesk 

Plesk Panel is a web hosting control panel that provides users with a simple and intuitive way to manage their hosting accounts and websites. One of the main advantages of Plesk Panel is its easy-to-use interface, which allows users to easily create and manage email accounts, databases, and website files. It also offers a wide range of features, such as website staging and cloning, automated daily backups, and security tools. However, some users may find Plesk Panel to be limited in terms of customization and flexibility compared to other control panels. Additionally, the cost of Plesk Panel licenses and add-ons can be a downside for small businesses or individuals with limited budgets. Despite these drawbacks, Plesk Panel is still a popular choice for many web hosting providers and users.

Direct Admin

DirectAdmin is a web hosting control panel that allows users to manage their websites and hosting accounts with ease. This software offers a user-friendly interface, making it simple for beginners to navigate and manage their websites. One of the main advantages of DirectAdmin is its affordability, as it tends to be cheaper than other control panel options. In addition, it has a wide range of features, including email management, file management, and DNS management. However, some users may find that DirectAdmin lacks some advanced features that are offered by other control panels, and its interface may not be as sleek and modern as some of its competitors. Ultimately, whether DirectAdmin is the right choice for a user will depend on their specific needs and preferences.

Konsoleh 

Konsoleh is a popular terminal emulator for the KDE desktop environment, providing a powerful and customizable command-line interface for users to interact with their system. Its pros include excellent compatibility with various shell programs, easy tabbed interface for managing multiple sessions, and support for customizing appearance and behavior. However, some users find its interface to be less intuitive and user-friendly compared to other terminal emulators. Additionally, Konsoleh may be resource-intensive, leading to slower performance on older or less powerful hardware. Overall, Konsoleh is a solid choice for power users and those who value customization and compatibility, but it may not be the best option for those seeking a simple and intuitive terminal experience.

Following is the full list of what you should get in your web hosting plan: 

Whether you are using Cpanel, direct admin, Konsoleh or Plesk they all tend to have the same features in place find our Web Hosting Checklist below

File Management:

File Manager: For managing files directly within the web browser.
FTP Accounts: To create and manage FTP accounts for file transfer.
Backup: Tools for creating and managing backups of your account.
Disk Usage: To view and manage disk space usage.

Databases:

MySQL Databases: To create and manage MySQL databases and users.
phpMyAdmin: Web-based management for MySQL databases.
PostgreSQL Databases: For managing PostgreSQL databases (if supported).

Domains 

Addon Domains: To add additional domains to your account.
Subdomains: For creating subdomains.
Aliases: For setting up domain aliases.
DNS Zone Editor: To edit DNS records for domains.

Email:

Email Accounts: To create and manage email accounts.
Webmail: Access to web-based email clients.
Forwarders: Setting up email forwarding.
Autoresponders: For creating automatic email responses.
Spam Filters: Tools for managing spam like Box Trapper or spamexperts.

Security:

SSL/TLS: For managing SSL certificates.
IP Blocker: To block specific IP addresses.
Hotlink Protection: Prevent others from stealing your bandwidth.
SSH Access: For secure shell access settings.

Software:

Softaculous or similar application installer: For easy installation of web applications.
PHP Version Selector: To select different PHP versions.
Perl Modules: For managing Perl modules.
Site Software: For installing additional site software.

Metrics:

Awstats: For viewing website statistics.
Error Log: To view website error logs.
Bandwidth: To monitor bandwidth usage.
Raw Access Logs: For accessing raw server logs.

Advanced:

Cron Jobs: To schedule automated tasks.
Apache Handlers: For managing Apache handlers.
MIME Types: For managing MIME types.
Error Pages: To customize error pages.

Other factors that are good to consider when choosing a web hosting provider.  

 The options mentioned may not be accessible in your web hosting control panel and are frequently not modifiable, but it is essential to have a good understanding of them. PHP-FPm configurations, like the maximum memory, are vital in ensuring that your website has sufficient memory for managing backend operations. This is different from disk space, which is also crucial. For example, for users of a WordPress site, it is advisable to have a memory limit of at least 256 MB, a maximum timeout of at least 300, and a minimum of 1000 max input vars. 

Disk Space

 Generally, you want at least 5 GB of disk space, email will use most of your disk space over time

tip: you can save on email space usage by storing emails in a local directory or using POP3.

Bandwidth

Bandwidth is another important factor. If you have a website that has heavy traffic you may be charged extra for additional bandwidth usage or your website may time out.  

tip: You can save on bandwidth usage by using a free CDN like Cloudflare which caches your website eliminating the need to use the website resources every time somebody visits your site. Some web hosting packages offer Cloudflare integration but if you don’t worry Cloudflare is free and if you can change your Nameservers you can use Cloudflare.   

Uptime

A good web hosting plan has good uptime because it ensures that your website is consistently accessible to visitors. Uptime refers to the percentage of time that a server is operational and able to host your website. A high uptime percentage means that your website will be available to visitors more often, leading to a better user experience and ultimately, more successful online presence. This is why it’s important to choose a web hosting plan with a reputation for reliable uptime, as it directly impacts the performance and accessibility of your website.

Support

Support is imperative. It doesn’t matter if you have all the best features but a host with bad support. Websites can be lost, downtime can cost your business money. The support team of web hosting providers is its number one service, they should aim to provide peace of mind and technical assistance on all server issues.

Their web hosting infrastructure and tools should be kept up to date and they should let you know about planned downtimes for scheduled maintenance and upgrades. 

A good web hosting provider will offer various channels for support such as live chat, phone support, email tickets, and a comprehensive knowledge base. They should also have a team of knowledgeable and friendly support staff available 24/7 to address any issues promptly and efficiently.

 
In conclusion, a good web hosting provider should offer reliable and secure hosting with fast loading times, robust security features, and regular backups.