Some of the most dynamic websites are developed in ASP.NET language. This has driven the web hosts to provide customers with ASP web hosting. In ASP hosting, the applications can be easily deployed and created. However, ASP web hosting can only be run on Microsoft Windows Server operating system (Windows 2003 Server). There are several ASP hosting providers; however, you need to choose a vendor that provides the most compatible features.
ASP web hosting is completely managed by the control panel provided by the web hosts. Some of the most compatible control panels are Helm and Parallels Plesk control panels that allow you to deal with the different aspects of ASP web application.
These control panels also provides full integration with MS-SQL and ASP.NET applications with access to Microsoft SQL Server. The online control panel allows various features that include creating or deleting remotely hosted databases, defining permissions and security settings, creating users and set passwords.
The host enables FTP access to the ASP Web Hosting account that allows you to upload your web files and scripts. There are some software such as Microsoft Visual Studio and Microsoft Visual Web Developer that come with built in FTP upload function. These allow you to enter the FTP settings easily and upload.
Most of the web hosting packages allow you to upload your files to their public web space through FTP (File Transfer Protocol). Further, the File Manager provided in the control panel can also be used to browse, drag and drop files from your PC to the server.
Here are some of the important things that you need to consider about ASP web hosting:
- Enable you to set permission on your files or folders that are hosted in the ASP web space. This will ensure proper functioning of the scripts.
- It must have the facilities to connect with different databases such as Microsoft SQL Server Microsoft SQL Server Manager Express that is ideal for web applications.
- It must enable uploading and managing of files and scripts with FTP.
- You must be able to host conventional web pages (html) and scripts written in ASP.NET programming language or classic ASP.
Choosing the ASP hosting provider
While planning about web hosting, the first thing you must consider is the amount of space allowed. Try to ensure that you get exactly what you pay for. You must also check the number of email ids you get. Now, if you lack a domain name you must book a name with the ASP hosting provider. However, some providers might also give you domain name free. In case you have a domain name, verify whether that can be transferred for free.
Verify the amount of disk space you would be allowed. The space should be enough to accommodate all your components and application. Check out for the ASP hosting company, which offers maximum space at cheap rate. Go through the services provided by the company and check whether they work according to the terms and condition. Choose the company that is high on performance and delivery even if you have to pay a bit more.
The type of ASP hosting that you get always depends on how much you are willing to pay for the service. There are several cheap ASP hosting options that come for low cost or are free; however, in such cases the features are limited. It might miss the sophisticated applications and advanced components that are used by other ASP hosting companies.
Compare the reviews of the technological features that are enclosed with the ASP hosting plan. Check for the Windows server used by the service provider. Now, if you are planning to use the web application in the latest .Net Framework, you need to ensure that the framework is supported by the server. Make sure that it offers you a customized a global.asax file or a global .asa.
Further, if you are planning to develop your .Net web applications in Visual Studio.Net then see whether the ASP hosting provider supports Visual Studio.Net. Some of the ASP application also supports the Macromedia Dreamweaver or Microsoft FrontPage.
It is important to know whether the ASP hosting company is supportive. There would be several instances where you might require help from the company. In such situation, help from the hosting company can be crucial as they are well acquainted with the ASP technology.
Authenticity of the ASP hosting provider is another issue that needs to be considered. Check the certification of ASP hosting company. Some of the best ASP hosting companies are Microsoft certified. Such certifications confirm that the hosting company has authentic people and will be allowing you good technical support. Further, they need to follow some guidelines laid down by Microsoft that ensures better service.
One of the best ways to know about the hosting service is to read the reviews and customer feedback on the service.