When you start a site, the first big decision is where it will live. Hosting isn’t one‑size‑fits‑all – there are several flavors, each with its own strengths and price points. In this guide we’ll break down the most common types, point out when they shine, and help you decide which one matches your needs.
Shared hosting is the entry‑level choice. Your site sits on a server with dozens of other sites, so you share CPU, RAM, and disk space. It’s cheap – often under £5 a month – and the host handles updates and security patches. The downside is limited performance; a traffic spike on a neighbor’s site can slow yours down.
VPS (Virtual Private Server) gives you a slice of a larger server that’s isolated from the rest. You still share hardware, but you get dedicated RAM and CPU limits. This means better speed and more control while keeping costs reasonable (usually £15‑£30 per month). VPS is a solid middle ground for growing blogs or small e‑shops.
Dedicated hosting hands you an entire physical server. No sharing, full control, and top‑tier performance. It’s perfect for high‑traffic businesses or apps that need custom configurations. The price reflects that power – often £80+ per month – and you’re responsible for most maintenance unless you opt for a managed plan.
Cloud hosting spreads your site across a network of virtual servers. Resources can scale up automatically when you get a traffic surge, so you only pay for what you use. Providers like AWS, Google Cloud, and Azure dominate this space. Cloud hosting suits startups that expect rapid growth or need high availability.
Managed WordPress hosting is a niche variant that takes the hassle out of running WordPress sites. The host configures server settings, handles backups, and often includes caching tools out of the box. Prices sit between shared and VPS, and you get a speed boost without deep technical work.
Free hosting sounds tempting, but it usually comes with limited storage, mandatory ads, and no SSL certificate. It can work for a quick test or a personal hobby site, but don’t expect reliable uptime or SEO benefits.
Start by listing your site’s core needs: expected traffic, required speed, budget, and technical skill level. If you’re launching a simple blog, shared hosting gets you online fast and cheap. For an online store that expects sales spikes, look at VPS or cloud – the extra resources prevent checkout failures.
Consider control. Do you need to install custom software or tweak server settings? Dedicated or unmanaged VPS gives you root access, while shared and managed plans lock you into the host’s control panel.
Don’t forget security. Managed WordPress and reputable cloud providers include automatic SSL, daily backups, and DDoS protection. If you go DIY with a VPS, set up those safeguards yourself or budget for a security add‑on.
Finally, think about growth. Many hosts let you upgrade without moving domains, so you can start small and scale. Check the provider’s upgrade path before you sign up – a smooth transition saves time and headaches later.
Bottom line: there’s a hosting type for every project. Match your budget, traffic expectations, and technical comfort level to the options above, and you’ll land on a setup that keeps your site fast, safe, and affordable.
Confused about web hosting? Get the whole picture. This guide explains how website hosting works, why it matters, and how to pick the right plan.
Read More