Web hosting services are extremely essential if you want to be available to your Internet users round the clock. The decisions you take, especially when it comes to choosing the right hosting option, plays a key role in influencing the functioning of your website and the way you manage it at your end.

The services of a web host can be divided into three main types:

Shared hosting is a type of cheap web hosting where multiple single websites are shared on a single server. In this form of hosting, the customer has limited control over the functioning of the server because the system administration is shared by many users. This can be considered as a benefit for those who do not want to deal with all the complexities and tensions associated with administration. However, it is certainly a big hindrance for power users who want more control over their server's functioning. Shared hosting is therefore inappropriate for users who need to run hi-tech software applications or complex processing on their websites.

A dedicated hosting service is when a client leases an entire server which is not shared with anyone. It is a highly flexible option for website owners who deal with heavy software applications, comprehensive data management, or continuous financial transactions, etc. Many hosting companies offer server administration as an add-on service, and this is the reason why it is often also referred to as managed hosting. Dedicated servers are most often housed in data centres in a manner similar to co-location facilities. These centres boast of state-of-the-art infrastructure, redundant power sources, automated backup facilities, and other server security essentials. In this case, the server hardware is owned by the provider.

Virtual Private Server web hosting bridges the gap between shared or cheap web hosting services and dedicated hosting services, giving customers a high level of independence but at less cost than a physical dedicated server. A VPS runs its own copy of its operating system and customers have the access to install almost any software that runs on the OS. However, the biggest problem with a VPS lies in the fact that there are certain software that do not run well in a virtualized environment, such as some of the firewalls, anti-virus clients, etc. Moreover, some hosting providers place further restrictions, thereby creating more and more complications for the user. Most virtual private servers have a number of clients typically running on a single machine, thereby limiting the processor time, RAM, and disk space as well.

It is always advisable for customers to conduct extensive research before they actually decide on a web host for their online business. Your decision will have a big impact on your traffic influx as well as eventual revenues. Companies like Linux Web Hosting, one of Australia's premium cheap web hosting services providers, is a reliable name in this field. The company has helped numerous clients in making the right choices as far as their hosting decisions are concerned.