Finding A Web Host

[Key_Master]

No, this isn't another "What's the best host?" post. I've got a domain that is too big for it's britches and I need to move it to another host. The problem is, there are so many Web hosts out there and it's nearly impossible to sort the good ones from the bad ones. Does anybody know of any sites that provide up to date, unbiased reviews of Web hosting service providers?

[hakre]

for germany there is a site called webhostlist. but i think you need something in another country.

[eboda]

Your best bet is to interview a web host provider. If they are serious about what they do they will go the extra mile to sell their services to you. The most common problems that people deal with are A.) Communication in time of need and B.) Stability. You are right, there are zillions of people offering web hosting.

I personally advise my clients or anyone to host locally in your state if at all possible. The benefit to hosting in your own state is you are not contending with time zones and - if needed - you can drive over and see them face to face to address those ignored technical issues.

It comes down to actually talking with a live person and interviewing their services. A 10 min call can save hours of technical issues later.

Here is some good reading:
Who is your web hosting provider?
[webmasterworld.com...]

Cheers!

[Travel]

I'm sure others can suggest their favorite sites- but I'll share the process I go through. Without looking at anything - I set up an Excel file that has a list of each of my needed features, then my weanted features, then the price, then the set up fee. Next- I visit those directories and go through everything that looks like it will fit what I need. I start filling out my spreadsheet for each. If I hit a blank spot in my needed- the whole site gets tossed out.

Once I have my spreadsheet full- I organize first by most wanted features, then by monthly cost, then by setup fee. The winner is the first in line unless losing a wanted feature or two saves me enough monthly to make up for it.