When you’re ready to publish your website and make your presence known to the world, one of the first things you’ll need to do is decide which web hosting package is best for you and your web needs. There are a lot of hosting firms out there. The more you know the better you will be able to make a decision that will keep you happy with your hosting provider. If you’re looking for some ideas to help guide you through the search, here are some important things to keep in mind that may help you.

1. Easy, Intuitive Interface

Managing a website can include a lot of complex programs and a lot of working parts. Luckily, some web hosting providers have created simple, intuitive navigation protocols. Look for hosts that offer a work environment similar to what you usually use, such as a Windows-style interface.

2. Versatile Emailing

When you manage a website, the primary means of communicating with your visitors and users on a one-to-one basis is through email. Email may seem basic, but good email systems are something you should make sure your potential web host has covered. For example, look for POP3 email and alias capabilities.

3. Backups and Virus Protection

Another important characteristic of an affordable web hosting package is the features included to protect your web presence. It is vital that your plan include some sort of auto backup feature as well as some sort of virus screening or protection.

4. FTP, Virtual FTP

You will want to be able to access and modify your files remotely. You will also want to have flexible control over how you upload your vital files. FTP services make managing crucial web assets easy.

5. MySQL and PHP

Among the most effective and powerful programming tools available to web developers is the PHP language and the MySQL protocol. Using these industry standards will help keep you compatible with a variety of web browsers and back-end applications.

6. Free Statistics Tracking

Today, most web-hosting packages should provide free or at least inexpensive web analytics. These tools can help you track who is coming to your site, when and how often.

7. SPAM Program

With the unbelievable amount of spam mail flying around the Internet today, it is imperative that any new hosting package includes a filter to protect your inbox from spam attacks. Otherwise, you could spend a lot of time sorting through unwanted messages.

8. Security Protection

Any web hosting package worth its salt should obviously be secure. Check to be sure that the provider offers SSH security shells. These can be especially useful for ecommerce solutions and subscription functions. They also makes managing secure files easy.

9. HTTPS Functions

This sort of protection should be available as a standard or inexpensive feature. It tells you and your ecommerce customers that personal information and order details remain secure during transit.

10. Webmail Access

Of course, you want your email to be accessible even when you are not at your personal computer. Having a webmail account enables you to stay in reach of important emails from any active web connection.