Finding a Commerce-Friendly Web Host

Assuming that this is your first time at building an e-commerce website, it is a safe bet that you will be outsourcing most (or at least some) of the site’s technical operations to a web hosting company.

More than just freeing your time, however, many web hosting companies have plans tailored specifically to the needs of customers developing or operating e-commerce Web sites. A few hosting companies offering enhanced e-commerce features include DellHost (DellHost.com), ValueWeb (ValueWeb.com), Global Internet Solutions (GISol.com) and Gotham Web (GothamWeb.com). These commerce-friendly hosting plans often include a software license for one of the storefront building programs with your monthly fees, as well as a number of other support services, designed to provide you with a secure platform from which to do business.

And while software and services may be convenient, there are other reasons why a host that understands e-commerce is critical to your business. A good e-commerce host will already have the means in place to secure your online transactions with protocols such as SSL. It may be able to process transactions for you, or help you set up a merchant account. And most importantly, it will have the service level guarantees suitable to the high demands of your e-commerce operation.

Of course, in addition to the products and services they provide, it is difficult to argue against the value of experience. A Web host well versed in e-commerce should be able to help you by answering whatever questions you may have.