HostMonster vs. Netfirms vs. IX Web Website Hosting Comparison
HostMonster Website Hosting
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.
Based out of Toronto, Ontario, with U.S. offices in Buffalo, New York, Netfirms was founded in 1999 with the express purpose of providing hosting solutions for small businesses. Since then, Netfirms has grown into a worldwide provider and domain name registrar and hosts more than 1.2 million web sites.
Pros
Multiple packages available for business-specific needs
Environmentally friendly policies and practices
30-day money-back guarantee
Cons
Pricing slightly above average; cheaper plan available
Service in 12-month terms only, no other length available
Conclusion Netfirms provides some of the best options optimized specifically for small business needs. With features not as robust as some other hosting services, some of the specific tools available through Netfirms may benefit a business just beginning with their web site. Also, with the launch of Netfirms Green, they have begun an in-house initiative to reduce their environmental footprint and energy usage.
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.
