Linux hosting is a compelling choice for running dynamic websites to better communicate with tech-savvy customer markets. Linux-based technologies are open source and collaborative, making a Linux-based site both affordable and a sound marketing strategy. Customer-centric elements can fill up your opt-in mailing list and save you money too.

Linux website hosting does not always integrate easily with Windows-based applications, but scripts and programs such as FTP access, JavaScript and HTML pages, Frontpage, CGI forms, mySQL databases or the ColdFusion Server will work with Microsoft Office and a Linux web hosting server. Plus Linux-based collaborative software is widely available as your website needs change.

When selecting a Linux hosting provider, consider the following steps:

1. Find out if Linux web hosting meets your needs.

2. Compare Linux website hosting with rating and review sites.

3. Start with a dedicated Linux server with experience and service options.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Use matching tools to help find Linux web hosting to meet your needs

Use a form to explain your needs and have a matching service connect you to multiple Linux server hosting companies. Be sure to note your current scripts and programs.

I recommend: Get Linux hosting quotes with HostVoice. The free quote tool provides customized quotes from 4 vendors based on your requirements. ActivSupport, an information technology consulting service, offers a consultation to help you decide the features you need.

Compare Linux web site hosting with rating and review sites

Rating and review services compare Linux hosting plans from features to pricing. Some sites that list by price will feature unlimited bandwidth and disk space. But your dynamic website pages will establish the resource requirements of your Linux hosting plan. Be sure to note technical support features if you are planning a conversion.

I recommend: RateMyHost.com offers a showcase directory and rating system that allows you to consider customer service and features. TopHosts offers a search tool that compares Linux and UNIX hosting plans by price. You can select your specific disk space and scripting language and get a directory of shared hosting providers that match your needs.

Start with a dedicated Linux server with experience and service options

Get a dedicated Linux web server to expand your dynamic pages. Self-managed hosting is an affordable option with dedicated plans. You will have full access to your server to monitor traffic and keep your site fresh. Managed hosting service does allow FTP access but the provider maintains the server. Always consider how long your provider has been offering Linux hosting and if it offers 24/7 technical support.

I recommend: ServePath specializes in dedicated servers and multi-server networks, and offers managed hosting solutions with flexible pricing and performance guarantees. Founded in 2002, ServerBeach boasts affordable hosting with first-class support for self-managed servers.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Install a specialized Linux distribution to use Linux dedicated servers. You may need additional expert installation and configuration services, but you will have a dynamic website at an affordable price.