Hostgator has to be the worst host out there, and I needed to vent. I hope this post helps others avoid their awful service.
I was with them for 15 years on a dedicated server. Back in the day, my monthly fee included full support and 24/7 monitoring. About a year ago, I found out they no longer support their own servers.
Last week, my site got hit with malware, and Hostgator shut it down until it’s fixed. No clue how it got infected—I use long, randomized passwords, and my personal computer is clean. I’m guessing Hostgator’s security was the weak link, but they refused to help.
My only option? Pay for SiteLock through Hostgator. So I paid. SiteLock ran, said no malware found. Then I got emails from SiteLock saying it found and cleaned malware. Hostgator then emails me back acting like I didn’t know what was going on. How convenient.
So, I asked for my site to be reinstated, but it’s been radio silence for a week. If I respond to the ticket, I just get an auto-reply saying the ticket is closed and to contact support. Tried chat (never loads) and phone (no one picks up). No working support emails either.
Anyone have a recommendation for a good hosting provider?
Indigo said:
The company owning Hostgator now is infamous for gutting support and hiking prices… sounds like nothing’s changed.
Endurance International Group owns Hostgator but operates under Newfold Digital now. They’re known for buying companies, cutting corners, and outsourcing support. No surprise here.
I remember using Hostgator around 2015, and it was a nightmare even back then. Moved to a new host, and it’s been a lot smoother. Honestly, shared hosting just isn’t worth the hassle for sites getting serious traffic.
A managed server only means they take care of the server, not the website. Unless you’re handling updates and maintenance on your end, vulnerabilities can creep in over time.
Most providers will only do server-level maintenance unless stated otherwise, so if you’re looking for full website management, find a host that offers that specifically, but expect it to cost more.
@LizCampbell
I managed everything on my end and kept it all up to date. My brother, who works in network security, suspects that the issue was due to outdated server software that should’ve been updated automatically. Turns out, some major components hadn’t been updated since the last server upgrade two years ago.
When you pay for a managed server, it’s supposed to be monitored round the clock. Odd to hear they’re pushing you to use a third-party malware tool. Before choosing a new provider, make sure they’re genuinely offering managed hosting. Fifteen years with a provider should mean better support—Hostgator really let you down here.
Indigo said:
You’re not alone in experiencing Hostgator’s failings. I’d suggest looking into other providers soon.
Everything worked fine until now because I always stayed on top of updates. I’m looking around for other options, but moving an old site is going to be a lot of work.
Hostgator’s owned by Newfold Digital (formerly EIG), which is known for cutting corners. I’d suggest checking out Linode for VPS or dedicated options. For regular hosting, Krystal UK has been solid for me.