How to choose a Host for a Managed Dedicated Server or VPS
So, you're website has grown, from a handful of static HTML pages that you and your friends visit, to a dynamic, database driven, complex web application with thousands of visitors per day. You're probably thinking that it's time to start looking for better hosting solution. But how do you choose what host to use for web hosting a semi-managed dedicated server or VPS?
Basically, there are 3 things you want to look for. First, the data center the host is using should be redundant, or have contingency plans in place in case of server failure. The host needs to know and understand what happens in case of emergency, and know how to get your site back up and running in the shortest amount of time possible. Second, you have to be very comfortable with the technical support has that is available. To me, that means that I need operator support by phone during my business hours, and 24x7 remote support (usually outsourced). Knowing what type of support your host offers before needing to use that support is key. Third, make sure you research your list of potential hosts. Find recommendations and reviews of each host and combine this with your questions of them. For example, after doing a little research on Hostgator through google, we found an abundance of positive reviews, with very few negative ones. Remember that just about every host on the planet will have a bad review or two, but several bad reviews should be a derrerent.
