Best web hosting for small biz or beginners?

Hey all,

I’ve been looking up the best WordPress hosting options on Google and on forums like this one for a while, but I keep finding mixed advice.

One clear takeaway though: seems like GoDaddy and Newfold Digital services are a no-go.

I’m building a site for a small business selling medical equipment with product info only—no e-commerce needed. Pretty new to all this, so any tips from those who know the ropes would be super helpful. Thanks!

You really have two main options: manage the WordPress server yourself or use a shared hosting plan. As a beginner, managing the server might be a bit much, so shared hosting could be a good start.

Some recommendations are listed on the forum sidebar for managed WordPress hosting. I’ve heard good things about DreamHost, which is one option. Just avoid GoDaddy and Bluehost, like you said. For now, the difference between hosts won’t be super noticeable until you get significant traffic.

I’d suggest going with shared hosting for WordPress and adding a caching plugin. Keep it light on plugins overall to avoid slowing things down.

Pro tip: Start on the smallest plan, then upgrade if you need more. Saves money in the long run!

@Elliot
Thanks for the tip!
Been reading about this too. Do you have a preferred host?

Murray said:
@Elliot
Thanks for the tip!
Been reading about this too. Do you have a preferred host?

The hosts in the sidebar should work well for most people. NixiHost, iWebFusion, and KnownHost are some I’ve seen mentioned. I personally use A2, though opinions vary.

I’d recommend focusing on shared hosting to start. You can always upgrade later if traffic picks up.

Adams said:
I’d recommend focusing on shared hosting to start. You can always upgrade later if traffic picks up.

Any specific advice for WordPress hosting?

Michelle said:

Adams said:
I’d recommend focusing on shared hosting to start. You can always upgrade later if traffic picks up.

Any specific advice for WordPress hosting?

Any shared hosting can run WordPress, so I’d stick with that for now.

@Evelyn
cPanel hosts are handy because they make it easier to change software later if you need to. Plus, they have one-click WordPress installs.

@Evelyn
I’ve been happy with DreamHost. Some people prefer SiteGround, though it’s a bit pricier.

Michelle said:

Adams said:
I’d recommend focusing on shared hosting to start. You can always upgrade later if traffic picks up.

Any specific advice for WordPress hosting?

I host my client sites on managed VPS, but that’s a bit advanced. For starting out, shared hosting from reliable providers (check the sidebar) is a good place to begin. It’s affordable and easy, and you can scale up as needed.

Managed hosting might be better if your client isn’t tech-savvy and needs support. The WordPress-focused support from these hosts can save everyone a lot of hassle.

Adams said:
Managed hosting might be better if your client isn’t tech-savvy and needs support. The WordPress-focused support from these hosts can save everyone a lot of hassle.

True, a bit tricky for beginners, but useful if they need assistance.

I use DigitalOcean and sometimes AWS for hosting WordPress, though it helps to know Linux. But yeah, maybe not ideal for beginners.

Sophia said:
I use DigitalOcean and sometimes AWS for hosting WordPress, though it helps to know Linux. But yeah, maybe not ideal for beginners.

Is that fair to recommend here? They mentioned they’re new to all this.

@Evelyn
“New to hosting? Sure, just go with AWS… that’s easy, right?” Sarcasm intended. Not really the best starter advice!

Are you just designing the site, or will you be maintaining it too? If you’re handing it off, managed hosting could be worth it for the extra support they offer to non-techy users.

Most shared hosts handle WordPress fine, but service quality varies. If you’re just starting, no need for a VPS. A shared plan will work, and you can upgrade if the site grows.

Do your clients need direct access to the hosting, or just the WordPress dashboard?

WP is a dynamic website, meaning it needs a server. I use A2 Hosting with a shared plan. Been good so far. Just know, it can take a while for a new site to show up in Google search.