It is much simpler to set up the server to handle anonymous FTP and SSL encryption if the server has got a dedicated IP address. And this is possible in case of dedicated web hosting only. Well, it is possible however it is much more difficult in the case of Shared Web Hosting. Hence, one can make a choice her as well.
As a result of choosing the right web hosting, you don't have to worry about having your website up and running anymore. You already have that part settled so you can relax and focus on building your website.
The selection of platform and database engine is connected. If your web host offers hosting on the Linux platform, the script language is PHP and the database is MySQL. For Windows based hosting, ASP/.NET and MSSQL is often used. Unless you are a programmer with special demands in regard to platform, this selection doesn't matter much to you. More web hosts offer Linux hosting because it is cheaper, hence Affordable Web Hosting.
It is almost impractical to establish which web host is the absolute fastest around because there are so many web host companies. You can get some reviews by reading blogs, checking out forums or reviewing IT magazines, if you wish.
Web Host Country - Depending on your market, this could be the most important consideration, and often the most overlooked. The physical location of your host servers can have an impact on your business if your target market is in your own country. Google UK, for example offer the option of either a UK only or a world-wide search. If you want to feature in the UK only searches it is far better to have your website hosted by a company who has its actual servers in the UK. Be aware that some Shared Web Hosting UK hosting companies who appear to be UK based companies actually have their servers located in other countries. Always ask!
Many people have no idea what web hosting is. Web hosting provider is someone who will allow you to upload and download files into their server. Basically you hire a web space from them and you will be uploading your website files so that if someone comes and visit you, they will see your web pages which will be downloaded from the web space where you store them.
The hosting company that I use also allows you to purchase a new domain name with PayPal. This is what I did. The online domain name purchasing website did not accept my debit card. However, I was able to email full payment via PayPal along with the domain name that I wished to purchase. This request was then carried out within minutes by the support team, whom emailed me confirmation of purchase.