Web Hosting Technologies You Need

Even if you're not a website programmer, webmaster, or system administrator, you still should take programmer tools into account when purchasing web space. It's better to plan now rather than find out later that your web host doesn't include a feature you need. There are many developer tools on hand, but these are the most important.

PHP

PHP is a frequently used server-side scripting language. Applications programmed in PHP are run on your website server, as opposed to your visitor's system. PHP will provide your website's functionality. In fact, most popular internet applications, blogging platforms, and content management systems are done in PHP. Make sure your web host provides the most up-to-date version of PHP. It's also a plus if they support older versions, since some website applications may still use them.

MySQL

MySQL is a relational database management system, which is used to store your website data. A scripting language like PHP is in charge of writing and reading the records stored in MySQL databases. It's most practical to select a web space host that permits unlimited databases. Some web space hosts offer a limited number, which will be a hassle if you wish to set up several websites.

Cron

Cron is a job scheduler. It allows users to carry out scripts or commands at a programmed date and time, whether it's a one-time job or a recurring one. Cron jobs are usually utilized for system maintenance, such as automatic backups. They can be used for other reasons as well, like sending email to mailing lists. Setting up cron jobs is much easier if your website host provides an integrated control panel that allows you to use a visual interface.

CGI

CGI, or Common Gateway Interface, is a standard protocol for external gateway programs to interface with information servers. Basically, it's a way for servers to interact with users. For example, web forms use CGI to process submitted form data.

.htaccess

Htaccess facilitates directory-level configuration. Putting an .htaccess file in a directory allows you to override and tweak your web server's configuration for that directory and its subdirectories.

Bonus: Ruby on Rails

While it may not be absolutely significant, Ruby on Rails support is a great thing to have. RoR is a web application framework used to make websites. It's deemed to be simpler than PHP; it has more comprehensible syntax, and permits modules to be programmed with less code. Since it's a relatively new framework, some web hosts don't support it just yet. It's a good idea to look for a web host that does, since RoR is getting more and more famous.