The following questions should be asked when you are choosing a web server on which to store your web pages.

• What are the monthly or annual costs for using the server?
• How much storage space do you get for your files? (Should be at least 2-5 MB if you wish to expand your site in the future)
• Is there a limit on the usage or number of hits that your site can receive? (This number should not exceed your expected traffic levels)
• What are the setup costs?
• Are there extra fees to host your Domain Name?
• Are there extra fees if you wish to add more email addresses assigned to your Domain Name?
• How long will it take to get your site set up and operational?
• How fast is their connection to the Internet? The more efficient that their link is to the Internet's backbone system, the quicker your pages will load when visited by your customers (you don't want them waiting too long because they may go elsewhere)
• Is there a backup system or contingency plan in case the server is down?
• Is the server capable of performing the operations, programs and scripts that you will require?
• Do they offer technical assistance in case you have questions or problems? Is this available online or through a toll-free number? How quick is their response to your questions?

In many cases, it is best to talk to your web consultant as they will likely have a list of web servers that they have worked with in the past. This can be beneficial as they will have already established a strong relationship and together, they can prevent some of the problems that you may otherwise encounter.

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