PowWeb vs. HostRocket vs. Netfirms Website Hosting Comparison
PowWeb Website Hosting
In business since 1999, PowWeb provides its proprietary "load-balanced" web hosting platform to ensure maximum uptime for its customers. With an infrastructure entirely built, maintained and managed by in-house employees, PowWeb can ensure a high level of reliability for both individuals and businesses.
Pros
Long list of standard database, script and e-commerce options
Many user applications included free with basic package
30-day money-back guarantee
Cons
Online sign-up forms found to be buggy and error-prone
Basic yet full "one size fits all" package
Monthly rate increases after 12 months
Conclusion PowWeb offers an extensive range of features that should satisfy both individuals and businesses alike. Their special "load-balancing" technology ensures a high degree of uptime, and their broad array of online customer service options should provide assistance or reference for most any issue.
Based in New York’s “Tech Valley” (Clifton Park), HostRocket has grown steadily using only private investors since their founding in 1999. They provide a variety of hosting and related services for individuals and businesses around the globe, including e-commerce functions, dedicated hosting and web site design packages.
Pros
Hosting available month by month with no contract
No data transfer or e-mail limitations
Host multiple domains through one customer account
Money-back guarantee
Cons
Additional costs for a few options otherwise included with other vendors
Must purchase 24 months in advance to get listed monthly rate
Basic yet full “one size fits all” package
Conclusion HostRocket offers a robust and feature-rich package that should satisfy almost any individual or business requirement. The variable-length term of service (with its graduated cost) is a plus not offered by every hosting service. While their list of included features is full and attractive, it does include some hidden costs that might otherwise be standard with other vendors.
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.