How SQL Can Affect your Choice of Web Hosts

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by Uriel Ramsey

SQL (Structured Query Language) is one of the building blocks that go into the larger development of databases. SQL is sometimes referred to as MySQL and is pronounced either as "es queue el" or "my ess queue ell." Three individuals founded this unique language, their names being Michael "Monty" Widenius, Allan Larsson and David Axmark. The "my" part of the name when it is used is derived from the name of one on Monty's children but in the local language is pronounced not as "my" but as "me."

When searching for a reliable host for a database it is important to find one that is reasonably priced, offer good responses times and up average customer support. When a person makes use of SQL this can affect his or her choice of web hosts. First of all there is a difference between a web host and an Internet Service Provider (abbreviated to ISP). It is self-explanatory what an Internet Service Provider does- it makes access to the Internet by way of broadband, ADSL and ISDN possible. On the other hand a web host provides server hosting solution by way of SQL and IIS. Sometimes an ISP does offer some web hosting packages, they are predominantly aimed at those who use computers for their own personal home use as well as businesses that are just getting their feet off the ground and only beginning to explore the attributes of the cyberspace world.

You need to find a web host that understand the issues that are important to you as a customer and these would include but are not limited to, user-access speed, bandwidth and up-time. Keep in mind that getting a SQL server for a website is not always the simplest task especially when you have to stay within a specified budget.

What is known as SQL server connectivity is an essential part of the web hosting decision. When you have narrowed down your search to a small list of web hosts you have to find out if the host in question would make it possible for you to connect to your SQL server by way of Query Analysis and/or Enterprise Manager. The majority of web hosts do and it would be wise to go with one that does otherwise you will need to make a lot of perhaps frustrating alterations to your current working practices. Another piece of information to be aware of upfront is contained in this question- "Who is responsible for creating the web database at the moment, and who will be copying the database and stored procedures from the web development to live SQL Server?" Ensure that the web developers will be taken into account and indeed, taken care of before you make the final decision to sign up with any particular web hosting company.

Historical Quote

There is never a beginning, there is never an end, to the inexplicable continuity of this web of God, but always circular power returning into itself.

—Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803–1882)

Backups are important so find out if the web hosting service in question provides them and if they do, that is good news but you still need to delve further. It is preferred that backups are included as part of the SLA (or service level agreement). Always think carefully about "the flow of data from the developers to the server and from the database back to you."

Disk space is another consideration so figure out ahead of time how much you will need and how soon you anticipate requiring more. For example, 10GB is a wiser option than 50Mb if it is featured at the same price but if your site only requires 5Mbthen this scenario is probably not what you need. Calculating the needs of your website in regards to a two to three year span is the way to go. Find out from the web host if the allowance for disk space also takes into account a transaction log. For example, a 100MB database package very likely will contain both a 50MB log file as well as a data file of the same storage capacity.

Bandwidth is another major consideration where SQL and a web host is concerned. Are you limited in the amount of bandwidth you are allowed or is it considered to be unlimited bandwidth? This is kind of a trick question because most web hosts worthy of your business and money have only so much bandwidth that they offer. In other words it is indeed "finite." For your purposes it is preferable if the web host gives you an idea of what the bandwidth limit per month is and makes it known that if you go over that amount then you will be charged extra for the month in question, or if it happens on a consistent basis, will be encouraged to upgrade to a plan that suits your own particular needs better.

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Please note: All personal opinions expressed in the "How SQL Can Affect your Choice of Web Hosts" article belong to the contributing author and are not necessarily shared by WebDesignConferencing.com.

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