Hello, I am Mitch Keeler and I am a Web hosting guru. As a Web hosting guru, and host of the Web Hosting Show, I get asked a lot of questions. Some are good, some are bad and some are just plain odd. Instead of just doing one or two questions and answers, I thought I would quickly shoot through four random questions I received last week from some of my Web Hosting Show listeners.

1. I know all there is to know about basic HTML, should I learn about CSS?

Yes you should. CSS might seem a little tricky at first, but once you learn it, it makes life editing a Web site so much easier. One great resource for learning about CSS is the W3 Schools. They have lots of information on the topic. Once you learn the basics, find a Web site you like that uses CSS, save it to your computer and then tear it apart. Learn what does what and you will be on your way to becoming a CSS zen master.

2. One Web host has “silver” and “gold” plans while another Web host has “mega” and “ultra” plans. What is the difference?

There is no difference. These are just marketing terms so that they can define the Web hosting plans they offer by name. The things you need to pay attention to the most are bandwidth limits, disk space and price. Find the Web host that has the right mix for you, and you should be hosting your Web site in no time at all.

3. I keep seeing data centers mentioned on my Web host’s Web site. What is a data center?

A data center is a location where that Web host’s servers are stored. Now this could be across the street from the Web host’s location or across the country. You can have private data centers, which are used by only one Web hosting provider or you can have public data centers. Public data centers could be used by multiple Web hosts out there.

4. My Web host sells domain names as well. Should I purchase my domain name and Web hosting from the same company?

Many people would say yes to this, but I have to say no. Think of it as the old saying about having all your eggs in one basket. Sure, it makes them easier to carry. The thing to consider is that if you drop the basket, all your eggs will be broken. I like to have my domain name registered one place and my hosting registered somewhere else. That way if there is a problem with one, it will not become a problem with the other. Also if I become unhappy with either my hosting or my domain name provider, I only have one thing to pick up and move somewhere else.

Download the Web Hosting Show! (MP3) | Read the Show Notes!
Running Time: 6 minutes | File Size: 1.27 MB

Tags: podcast, domains, hosting, css