PHP is a versatile language that is used widely in web development. This versatility means that when it comes to hosting, things get a little complicated if the server cannot handle everything the code wants it to do. So it is in your best interests to investigate and find out exactly what features the host is offering you.
Bandwidth – Users have a very short attention span. If your website does not possess enough bandwidth to function smoothly, you will lose traffic. So the first thing to do is to identify and secure enough bandwidth from the host.
Storage – Requirements are never a permanent thing. As your website grows, you will require more and more storage or hard disk space. Conversely, as you streamline your processes you might require less space as well. Whichever way your requirements swing, you must ensure that your host can accommodate it.
Add-ons – Usually, when you begin it is always with one domain. But eventually you might find yourself wanting to include more domains under the same package. So finding a host who will accommodate multiple domains under the single account is well worth the effort.
Databases – While it is not common, some hosts do place a limit on the number of databases that are available to you. Avoid this if you can and also ascertain what level of support they offer for these databases.
Uptime – If your website does not appear when a user wants it, it represents a lost opportunity. To avoid this you must look for a host that guarantees 99 % uptime.
Cost – While it is tempting to use a free PHP hosting service, there are many disadvantages to this option. Look for a good package that is within your means. Do not grab the first thing that looks good. Do a little digging and compare costs. There are plenty of competitive packages being offered in the market today.