Can I be my web host?

Web hosting is a specialized job. That is why millions of people all across the globe get their websites hosted by professional web hosting service providers. However, if you want to be your own web host, no one can stop you. You can actually be your own web host!

But before you slip into the garb of a web host, you have to judiciously understand the web hosting dynamics. Web hosting is a simple process for those who are into this profession. However, for a layman, it can be a convoluted, drawn-out affair. You need to know the technical aspects of web hosting. Apart from that you got to have the resources for carrying out all the processes involved in the hosting of a website.

Here is a list of points you need to contemplate on before you decide to host your website on your own.
• First of all, you have to be absolutely sure that you can handle the technical things on your own.
• You must do your home work on how to host a website.
• To host a website on your home computer, you need a non-stop internet connection.
• You need to have a permanent IP address.
• You should know about installing and configuring web server software such as IIS and Apache.
• You should understand that using your computer for purposes other than web hosting can make your web pages move slowly.
• Being your own web host means that you are a one man army. If any problem arises (mind you, there does arise a lot of problems!), you should have the knowledge and expertise to deal with the same effectively and quickly. You should have everything ready to deal with any problem.
• You have to understand that web hosting is not just about hosting a website on a server. Web hosting involves a whole host of technicalities and security issues. In fact, security problems are a key issue you have to deal with as a web host. Therefore, you must be equipped enough to address any such issues without wasting any time.
• Do you know how to elude the nasty hackers? If the answer to this question is not in the affirmative, go and look out for a professional web host service provider! There is no fun becoming a hacker’s victim.
• Web hosting calls for constant updating and advancements. A professional web host company has the manpower and the resources to take care of all this. However, it is quite a task for an individual to be able to handle such things.

Therefore, be your own web host only if you feel you can efficaciously shoulder all the responsibilities of a web host.