Once you decide to run a Web site and do it properly, you require a Web server for storing your data as well as an Internet connection to it. The server will be provided by hosting service providers (HSPs). Different HSPs will offer you different space (amount of data) and bandwidth (Net connection measured usually in MB). You will find different types of Web hosting like virtual web hosting, dedicated hosting; co-locating hosting, shared hosting, and reseller hosting.

Shared and virtual Web hosting means the same thing. By the term shared is meant that several Web sites, running from hundreds to thousands, are hosted on a single Web Server. You will have to decide if the extra time needed for your page to load under this arrangement will drive away your visitors. However, the problem does not seem to be acute if you deal with a professional, serious hosting provider because they monitor the operational parameters of the servers and take necessary steps to maintain the contracted service level.

When HSPs offer their services to a third-party (a reseller which itself becomes a HSP) and the latter offers web-hosting services under its own brand name, it is called reseller web hosting. In most of the cases, they are web designers or web developers as well. Although less expensive, this system has technical support problem which could inconvenience commercial Web sites.

In dedicated web hosting a Web site is allotted its own server. In some cases, although a single web server computer is divided between say three customers, it still remains the best option for important commercial Web sites.

Co-locating hosting is different from dedicated hosting in the sense that in the former, the customer owns the web server computer, giving the customer total control of the Web server along with the security of the data center.

While choosing your option, price should never be the sole factor. You should consider the quality of service on offer as well.