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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.
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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.
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Netfirms Pros:
- Multiple packages available for business-specific needs
- Environmentally friendly policies and practices
- 30-day money-back guarantee
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AN Hosting 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
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Netfirms Cons:
- Pricing slightly above average; cheaper plan available
- Service in 12-month terms only, no other length available
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AN Hosting Cons:
- Limited customizable options available
- Basic yet full “one size fits all” package
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Netfirms 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.
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AN Hosting 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.
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| Want to compare more? Compare iPowerWeb versus AN Hosting versus Netfirms |