I chose Bluehost because they seemed like a reliable and reasonably priced host with a solid reputation. I want to create a personal site and blog, and Bluehost offers the ability to host multiple sites and platforms, and includes email, which is tricky to set up on a VPS (I tried Amazon Lightsail and EC2 but found it too complex).
I’m curious about their support—if I need help customizing my site, would it be better to use WordPress.com instead? I want to experiment with Drupal and WordPress, and I might need to make some changes or extend functionality.
I don’t mind paying for additional consulting if needed, but I want to avoid getting ripped off. I signed up for their Prime/Choice Plus plan, which costs around $6/month and includes domain privacy and backups.
It sounds like you have put a lot of thought into your hosting choice. Both Bluehost and WordPress.com have their strengths but I personally use Bluehost because of its several advantages including:
Flexibility: Bluehost offers more flexibility, allowing you to host multiple sites and experiment with different platforms like Drupal and WordPress.
Customization: You have greater control over customization, especially with the ability to install various plugins and themes.
Support: Bluehost provides 24/7 support, including phone and live chat, which can be very helpful if you run into issues.
Cost: Your Prime/Choice Plus plan is quite cost-effective, especially with the added benefits of domain privacy and backups.
If you anticipate needing significant customization or consulting, Bluehost might be the better choice due to its flexibility and extensive support options.
WordPress.com: Offers limited customization options with less control over the server environment.
Bluehost: Provides greater flexibility for customization with plugins and themes, giving you more control over your website’s files.
Experimenting with Drupal and WordPress:
Bluehost: Ideal for experimentation, allowing you to install both Drupal and WordPress on your account to explore which platform suits your needs best.
Bluehost Prime/Choice Plus Plan:
Cost: $6/month is a good starting point.
Domain Privacy: Hides your personal information from public whois searches.
Backups: Crucial for website safety, and having them included is a plus.
Advice for Customization and Avoiding Scams:
Bluehost Support: While Bluehost offers basic WordPress support, consider these options for more extensive customization:
Learn Basic WordPress Customization: Utilize online resources and tutorials.
Hire a Freelance Developer: Platforms like Upwork or Fiverr can help, but ensure you research and compare before hiring. Check reviews and portfolios.
Managed WordPress Hosting: Providers like WP Engine or SiteGround offer more advanced support but are usually more expensive than Bluehost.
Additional Tips:
Start with a Simple Website Theme: Focus on content and functionality first; you can always upgrade the design later.
Research Plugins and Extensions: Choose reputable sources for the many free and paid plugins available.
Be Wary of Scams: Avoid “free website audits” or unsolicited offers for website design as these can often be scams.
Overall, Bluehost is a good choice for your personal website and blog, offering a user-friendly platform and the ability to experiment with both Drupal and WordPress. For more advanced customization, consider learning basic WordPress skills, hiring trusted freelance developers, or exploring managed WordPress hosting as you grow.
Yes, Bluehost is a good shared hosting service known for its reliability, customer support, and user-friendly interface. It’s especially recommended for beginners and offers various plans and features.
Bluehost is a well-liked shared hosting provider that is renowned for its dependability, accessibility, and feature-rich offerings. Bluehost is a wonderful option if you are looking for a hosting company that makes an impression.