Updated 12/23/16
Congratulations on your decision to start a new website! After choosing a domain name, the next step is selecting a web host.
I used HostGator web hosting for several years. (After HostGator was bought out by EIG, I moved my sites.) Even though their service isn’t as good as it once was, HostGator is still an okay vendor if you are looking for a budget-priced web host and don’t get a lot of traffic. Also check out InMotion hosting. They have higher quality servers and customer support than EIG-owned companies like HostGator. However, I find that SiteGround has the best shared hosting and customer support.
If you want to use HostGator, to get you started, here is my coupon code so you can get 25% off your first order: SUES25OFFDEAL
You can order a 1-month, 6-month, or a 1, 2, or 3 year plan. I recommend selecting either the Baby or Business Plan. (The Hatchling plan does not allow add-on domains.)
If you have a large, high-traffic site or you serve high-bandwidth content, you most likely need to select a VPS Hosting plan. Call HostGator for help selecting the best plan for your business. 1.866.96.GATOR. Be sure to tell them you have a coupon code if you order over the phone so you can get 25% off.
How to Order HostGator Hosting
- Go to Hostgator.com.
- Click the orange button labelled, View Web Hosting Plans.
- Select the plan you want, then click Order Now.
- If this is a new site, fill in the domain you want to register in the Register a New Domain box. If you already own a domain name, enter it in I Already Own a Domain Name box.
IMPORTANT NOTE: This is just the name for your account. You do not have to transfer the domain name to HostGator, you can keep it at your current domain registrar and just point the nameservers to your new hosting server. HostGator uses a domain instead of first name/last name as the name on the account. - Enter SUES25OFFDEAL in the Coupon Code box.
- Click Continue to Step 2.
- Fill out the registration and payment form.
- Click Create Account.
Congratulations! You now own your own web hosting account. Save the welcome email in a safe place. It contains the information you need to access your account, as well as links for technical support. If you do not receive the welcome email, contact HostGator support to ask for help.
If you have any questions, please contact me or ask them in the comments section below.
