Web hosting is often underestimated but crucial for running a website. There are various options, from free web hosts offering services in exchange for banner ads, to very cheap ones requiring long-term commitments, and then the pricier services. As a beginner, you know you need web hosting for WordPress, but what exactly does WordPress need? What specifications are necessary? This article will guide you through choosing the best web hosts for WordPress.
WordPress Requirements
WordPress is surprisingly lightweight and works with almost all web hosts. The basic requirements for WordPress are:
- PHP 4.3 or higher
- MySQL 4.0 or higher
- The mod_rewrite Apache module
Most Linux web hosts come with WordPress pre-installed, so you usually don’t need to worry about these requirements.
Considerations When Choosing a Web Hosting Service
- Your Needs
- WordPress is light, so a standard blog account doesn’t need a dedicated server. Avoid those.
- Many top shared hosting sites now offer unlimited resources. Use these to your advantage.
- If a service doesn’t offer unlimited specs, assess how much space you need. A WordPress site can operate well with under 100 MB. If you’re offering downloads or hosting many images, you’ll need more space.
- Consider your bandwidth needs. Aim to hit the front page of social media sites like Digg, which brings lots of traffic. Start with low bandwidth and upgrade as needed. Don’t pay extra early on for bandwidth you won’t use. Upgrade once your blog gains more influence.
- Web Host’s Reputation
- The hosts mentioned here have strong reputations in the industry. If you choose another service, research its reputation, uptime history, and support reviews thoroughly.
The Best Web Host Recommendations
Here are the best web hosts for WordPress, all offering unlimited specs:
- HostGator: Hosts over 2 million domains and is highly reputable. They have plans to meet all your needs.
- Site5: A popular web host with special plans tailored for the WordPress community.
- Bluehost: A reliable hosting company with a long history of satisfied users, competing strongly with HostGator.
Choose any of these web hosts, and you’ll be well-served.
