: I have a fast internet connection (DSL/cable) - can I just host my own site?
Description:
You could, but it's alot of work..First of all, most Internet Service Providers will not let you use your internet connection for web hosting, doing so will result in termination of your account.
Second of all, it can be a royal pain to keep things running smoothly; Making sure your network is secure so that no one can hack into it, setting up the actual server operating system, setting up and maintaining an email server etc.
Finally, think of the performance. Most good web hosts use powerful servers with abundant amounts memory and high performance hard drives. Furthermore, they have multiple internet connections at speeds far higher than what residential DSL or cable services can provide.
DSL/cable is fast for single or few users (such as yourself and your family). But when dozens try using that connection, it is simply inadequate.
There is a reason why DSL at 5mbit can be upto 100x cheaper than an industrial-strength connection also at 5mbit.
Remember many ISPs providing DSL/cable service also have clauses in your contract that forbid you from hosting a website on their connection.
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Lot of sites provide quite extensive reviews of web hosting sites
In fact we are in process of creating one of those web sites for community which is under development and will be launched soon www.makedotsimple.com
Here is the URL
http://www.makedotsimple.com/ ( Coming soon currenctly under development)
http://www.makedotsimple.com