The data centre houses computer systems and the related components. Originally conceived after the advent of desk top computers, the data centre has evolved to a facility which can be secured on a dedicated basis.

Despite the fact that there are many operating servers to choose from (Linux, Macintosh, Unix and windows), Linux and Windows are the most common and available operating systems on the market today.  Unix is very similar to Linux as is Mac OS X, although  relatively very few use Mac systems. Thus when looking to purchase a web hosting solution, it remains, ultimately, a choice between Windows Hosting and Linux Hosting.  There are a number of factors to be considered when addressing the respective advantages and disadvantages of each and these include:

E-commerce hosting solutions are becoming increasingly important for small and new businesses. Established business are opening up online channels and new businesses are being opened with the intention of operating only online. E-commerce solutions are becoming more affordable and offer businesses additional and expanded opportunity for enhanced customer service.  E-commerce solutions however require careful considerations particularly given the large number of service providers entering that space.

Sourcing the best and most appropriate web hosting service for your website(s) can be a challenging task for the typical business owner or entrepreneur.  In a highly competitive market environment with each hosting service provider offering multiple options and features, the array of decisions is vast. Even the so-called “cheapest” provider cannot be determined by a cursory glance as sometimes fees and costs are not fully  disclosed. A step-by-step process is recommended. This should include:

A  Payment Card Industry compliance protocol, better known as PCI compliance aims to protect personal information and to offer security when using payment cards in an online environment.  As important and significant move for sure and one which will impinge on  the entire payment card industry to comply. For an industry moving to engage with many more people in conducting transactions online it is an imperative as credit cards remain the preferred choice for consumers. A failure to meet the standards may mean fines from banks and credit card companies, or even the loss of the ability to process credit cards.