Should I host my site with my web developer? Julie
It’s a great question and generally I answer no, however I do explain my reasons and my reasons are along the same reasons why I say no to having your domain name and hosting together.
A number of web developers will be unhappy to read what I have to say, however I look at it from a client’s perspective, not from how I can line my own pockets with ‘more coins’ perspective.
How I see it is that a reputable hosting company is in the business of hosting websites, therefore they have the people, resources, equipment and knowledge to host your website. They have the latest technologies, they have a help desk, support ticket system and knowledge base.
A web designer/developer is in the business of designing and developing your website. Many, not all, web designers/developers are resellers of hosting. This means they have purchased hosting space through a reputable hosting provider and make it look their own. Some web designers/developers will setup their own hosting equipment so that they are, in the sense of the word, a true hosting provider.
My concern with web designers/developers who are generally one-man bands or small teams, who offer hosting and web design/development, is that their specialty is web design/development.
What can happen is people forget that reseller fees are due, backups are to be done, protocols are to be followed etc. If someone is busy, usually the first thing to go is something that is not their main function, and in this case it would be hosting.
Now, this is not all true for web designers/developers. It is important you assess each situation and look at it from all points of view.
This is just what I consider and discuss with any client that ask me this question.
