For all those convenient all-in-one website packages that include the domain name and hosting for your WordPress website: buyer beware. When it comes to any website, you should see these companies as a red flag. You (the business owner) should own/have access to your website host and domain name. Here’s why:
- Not owning your hosting account puts you in a vulnerable position. If you need to migrate your website, you can’t log into WordPress, or your having trouble accessing your email, you’re at the mercy of whoever’s managing the account. For example, say your email isn’t working and you need to fix it. You may wait days for a response from the account manager. That time could could cost a lot in sales for your business.
- You’re giving someone control and access to your email accounts. The manager of the hosting account has full access to your email. They can change your email password or even delete the account.
- Depending on your contract, you may not own your domain name. That’s scary! If the manager decides to increase the price and keep the domain name, you don’t have many options outside of going to court or creating a new one.
- You don’t need that middleman to host an account for you. If someone is offering to host your website, chances are they’re purchasing a hosting account from another provider and charging you extra to manage it. You could just pay the host directly and save money each month. A web developer should allow you to purchase web hosting and the domain name on your own and provide them with access to the account. I’ve even seen hosting companies, like Siteground, provide the ability to add users to your account so you can grant and revoke access.
There are a lot moving parts to your website, and it can overwhelming. One way to play it safe is to use a service like Squarespace, Webflow or Showit. You pay a monthly cost that gives you hosting and a secure platform for your website. The downside is that you may be somewhat limited in programs and plugins you can use.
If you have any questions on which website platform will work best for your business, please contact me. I’m happy to setup a consultation over the phone or by video chat.
Image by StartupStockPhotos from Pixabay
