Finding the right web host for your site might seem daunting, with so many different providers and levels of service to choose from. But once you have a good idea of what your site needs, how much you want to spend, and what features you should have, you can make better choices.

Here are suggestions that will help you figure out exactly what you need, and how to choose your next web host.

Look for the best hosting site for your domain name. Most free sites require you to put their name either before or after your site name in the URL. If you do not want this, you will have to search carefully for a host that suits your needs, even if it means paying for a quality host.

Be sure to check the amount of space you will be given from your host. Some web hosts only offer 1GB of free space, while others offer much more. Especially for free sites, the more space you use, the more limited your account will become until you start paying for it.

When choosing a web hosting service, refrain from going with the recommendation of friends or family who are not professionals. Though they may have had a good experience themselves with a certain provider, realize that their needs may be very simple compared to yours. Read reviews and advice from those who have needs similar to your own.

Create a priority list prior to looking for your web host. Carefully consider what you need and want in a web host, and compare each potential provider to your list. This helps you make a decision based on many factors, including price and quality of service, instead of just relying on a cheap company.

When selecting a web host, consider how much the host costs. Some hosts charge on a per-year basis while some may be month-to-month. Look for a host that costs an average of about $5 per month as this will most likely give you a great value for your money as opposed to a free hosting site that may not offer as many options.

Do not believe in a host advertising any kind of unlimited services. For instance, there could be limited file types allowed for hosts that offer some unlimited limitations. Also, it is possible to interpret unlimited bandwidth as a payment plan that is tiered. Ensure that your information regarding each plan is complete, and never assume that “unlimited” services come without strings attached.

Though you may not want to think about any potential need to shut down your website in the future, don’t neglect to ask about cancellation policies with a web hosting service. Inquire about contracts, refunds, and what happens to your content if you cancel your service. Ideally, there would be some way to retain the pages that you worked so hard to create.

Selecting a web host is important to anyone who has an online presence. It’s important to choose a host who will be there when you need them, offer the services you want now and in the future.

Keep these tips in mind as you look for an appropriate web host for your site.