Domain and Hosting Services
Domain Services:
Pretty much any hosting company can provide domain registration services. However, if you’re simply looking to purchase your domain names and hold them, I’d recommend the following providers. For GoDaddy and Network Solutions, Domain Registrar services is their “bread and butter.” They are top-notch in providing these services.
Hosting Packages:
Hosting Services abound with a simple Internet search. However, cheaper isn’t always better – particularly when it comes to Uptime, Bandwidth, and Support. In my experience, and in my extensive research when deciding where to host my own services, I would stick to one of the following providers.
FatCow - These guys really know how to take a theme and make it fun! They also know how to take unlimited hosting, make it cheap, and keep it running without issues (and without killing the environment – they are powered by Wind energy!). They also have a number of free features added to get you started and make your hosting experience better, including one called “Domain for Life” (whereby they provide the renewals for your domain name). DEFINITELY check out FatCow before you make your final decision on a Hosting Service. Limited Time Special: $10 Off “MooPon” for The Original FatCow– LegenDairy Hosting!
HostPapa – This one is rated fairly high by most sites on the Internet as well. I personally like recommending them as they utilize “green” energy (by purchasing energy certificates, similar to FatCow). Their plans are affordable (around $5/month for unlimited bandwidth/storage), feature-rich, and include a free domain name. I’ve also read a number of positive reviews claiming that HostPapa treats their customers like family. I’ll admit I’ve had no personal experience with this one, but wanted to list it so that you could explore it as a possible location to host your next website.
BlueHost - One of the most highly rated hosting services out there. They win numerous awards for their customer service. Their main offering is “unlimited” hosting – unlimited storage, unlimited bandwidth. They also have one-click installs for most hosted software (such as WordPress, Joomla, etc). They’re also currently running a special of $3.95/month!- GoDaddy.com Hosting Plans offer a large plethora of hosting options, from bargain basement (shared, virtual) to more expensive (dedicated, physical) with a bandwidth/storage options ranging from small to unlimited. They also allow you the option of hosting on Windows (if you require MS SQL or .NET). Note: This is the current web host for MW2ML!
Hostgator - While I don’t have personal experience with this one, I’ve seen it mentioned in a number of the WordPress sites I’ve read. It appears to be slightly more expensive than BlueHost with regards to unlimited hosting, but I wanted to add it for those of you that like having choices.
GoDaddy is my Domain Registrar of choice! I’ve purchased all my domains through them, and have had a completely positive experience with the checkout process and with their support people. I highly recommend GoDaddy for all your DNS needs.