PowWeb vs. Netfirms vs. IX Web 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 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.