Choosing a host?

[joannadillon]

Hello,

I want to install CiviCRM but am not sure which host I should use. I want to host a website (not yet built) and an installation of Civi in the same place, but my domain names are registered with pairNIC. I've read reviews of hosts like CiviHosting but I am looking for a less expensive option since I'm just getting started and playing around.

For a simple site, is it a bad idea to go with generic host like LaughingSquid or GreenGeeks? I'm asking this genuinely, knowing that some of the community members work for the different hosts. Any thoughts would be appreciated.

I'm no coder, but I am good with computers/websites/setting up this kind of stuff.

Thank you!

Joanna

[clarkac]

You need to be careful about selecting a hosting site, as many posts will agree.  My hosting company (vidahost.com - a uk company) have been flexible about increasing PHP memory, and allowing remote access of databases (very useful) as well as helping out with any problems.  They are also inexpensive.   Another hosting site I used just wouldn't have that flexibility and willingness to work with you.

[Hershel]

I would agree with clarkac. Going with an inexpensive host that can't run CiviCRM well can give one a very bad initial impression of CiviCRM, from the initial installation (can be a headache) to latency in using the tool. The best I think is to find a host with experience with CiviCRM so you know it will run properly so you can test it properly. You can find such a list here:

https://civicrm.org/providers/hosting