AN Hosting vs. HostMonster vs. IX Web Website Hosting Comparison
AN Hosting Website Hosting
AN Hosting started in 2001 as a small two-man operation in Chicago. The company grew quickly and was acquired by their parent company midPhase in 2005, which collectively operates a network of over 1000 servers. AN Hosting has a long list of awards for excellence in customer service.
Pros
Highly rated customer service, including C|Net and BBB
Large, generous limits on space quotas and transfer rates
30-day money back guarantee
99.9% uptime guarantee
Cons
Limited customizable options available
Basic yet full “one size fits all” package
Conclusion AN Hosting is a good mid-range hosting provider for the individual who knows what they want and does not require much help in their setup. At the same time, the multiple awards for customer service will benefit the new users and ensure a pleasant experience. Their ownership by midPhase Services may lead to changes in terms of service at some point in the future.
In business since 1996, HostMonster has consistently ranked at or near the top in customer service and satisfaction. Based in Orem, Utah, HostMonster provides a robust commercial package featuring High Performance Xenon Servers that is well suited for both individuals and businesses.
Pros
Free domain registration for life and free privacy feature
Powerful CPanel user control panel for web site settings and options
Several e-commerce options included with package
99.9% or better uptime guarantee
Cons
Must purchase 24 months in advance to get listed monthly rate
Basic yet full “one size fits all” package
Conclusion HostMonster is rated as the #1 web site hosting service with C|Net, who strongly recommend their services for both individuals and businesses. With extensive customer support and a full portfolio of features available for their users, HostMonster provides one of the best all-around values for performance of any hosting service.
With its own dedicated data center based in Hopkinsville, Kentucky, IX Web Hosting was founded in 1999 and has experienced consistent growth ever since. Ecommerce Corporation, its parent company, operates its tech center just across from its data center and is serviced by several Tier-1 Internet backbone providers.
Pros
Multiple plans with a variety of different options and costs
No data transfer or disk space limitations
Generous free marketing options included
Any-Time money-back guarantee
Cons
Database, scripting and e-commerce options not available with basic package
Listed monthly rate only offered with several restrictions
Sign-up options may lead to additional costs
Conclusion IX Web Hosting offers a wide range of consumer packages with a variety of desirable options, including some not always offered by providers and also lacking some considered almost basic. Their dedication to customer service has won them multiple awards and recognition, and the free marketing add-ons included with even the basic package make them an attractive vendor.