If you are just starting out as a webmaster, most reliable dedicated hosting companies will tell you to start off with shared hosting and move into dedicated server hosting when your website outgrows the shared server. When this time comes, your web hosting provider should alert you or, if you have server monitoring tools, you can see when to upgrade yourself.
Either way, there are several things you should take into account as you look into upgrading your web hosting account to a VPS or dedicated hosting plan.
* Price – this is a big requirement for most. Ask your web host what the new charges will be. Will they prorate a refund for you if you’ve already renewed your smaller plan? Do they offer discounts? Can you try it month-to-month? Do you still have a money back guarantee?
* File transfers – does your host offer to move the files for you? Normally, they will offer this only if you are using the same control panels, so if that’s an extra cost, you should factor that in to assure your files are transferred smoothly.
* Support – do they offer Dedicated or VPS technical support? Is that support 24/7?
* Managed Hosting – is your web host going to take your money and force you to manage the server yourself? Make sure they offer managed hosting solutions so you’re not all alone.
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