As a soon-to-be website owner, one of the first things you need to accomplish is to choose the type of hosting package that best suits your needs. If you’re keen on the world’s most loved CMS WordPress, then you have two basic options. This also applies to current site managers.

You can select between a shared hosting plan or a WordPress hosting plan. Each offers benefits and disadvantages based on your budget and what you’re planning to achieve. Which plan to choose will be entirely based on what you need.

In this post, we will quickly check each of these plans to help you decide the right one.

Shared Hosting Basics                                                                                 

Shared hosting is a hosting setup whereas the name suggests, you will share resources with other accounts on the same server. This leads to multiple drawbacks, including security concerns, space-hogging, speed issues, and many others. What makes this popular anyway is an incredibly cheap price point, which is a draw for new business owners.

Other popular hosting setups include:

• VPS/Cloud — your site will have its dedicated resources, either as part of a single machine (VPS) or through multiple machines (cloud). With this, you don’t need to share your resources with anyone else.
• Dedicated — your site gets its physical server all to yourself. However, most standard WordPress sites will never need this.

Managed WordPress Hosting Basics

Considered as a concierge set of WordPress-specific features and optimizations that integrates into any hosting setup. For instance, managed WordPress hosting usually includes:

• Hosting environments optimized for WordPress
• Staging sites for testing changes
• Automatic backups and easy restores
• WordPress-specific security rules
• Automatic WordPress updates
• Support members who are experts in WordPress

It’s possible to have WordPress hosting that uses shared infrastructure, managed WordPress hosting that utilizes VPS/cloud infrastructure or even managed WordPress hosting via dedicated infrastructure.

These days, most performance-focused managed WordPress hosting prefer and use cloud hosting infrastructure.

As the demand for managed WordPress hosting continues to grow, it moved ‘downmarket’ and into more favourable price points. Now you’ll see many shared hosts offering their own managed WordPress hosting plans.

Selecting the right host based on your needs

For the best quality of service, the obvious choice will be a premium managed WordPress hosts such as Vodien, which offer the absolute best performance, support, reliability, and convenience. Their competitive price points and track record with reviews to show for it can’t be overstated.

So, what’s your choice?

We are not saying that Shared Hosting is all that bad – it’s popular for a reason, but only use it if it’s the only type your budget allows. The only positive thing about it is that it’s cheap and can get you a working site.

With managed WordPress hosting, you also get managed features at a reasonable price point, Hosts like Vodien offer a budget-friendly entry point to managed WordPress hosting, even for businesses that need to host multiple sites. Still, the best way to scout the right provider is to check their partners & accreditations as well as actual user reviews. Best of luck!

There can never be enough security when it comes to online businesses. In our current world situation, we’re seeing more crimes being committed online, which rivals what’s being done in the physical world. What’s sad is not all of these crimes go noticed and even a lesser number of culprits get caught. With this, businesses online need to invest in online security to provide safety both for them and their users when browsing their sites or using their services.

In this article, we’ll list some of the most common security features every successful website uses to boost security and ensure a smooth-sailing online experience.

SSL website security. SSL certificates provide one of the highest levels of industry-standard security for safe and secure eCommerce transactions. It protects passwords, credit card numbers, and most importantly, secures customer information. SSL certificates secure the website and its customer’s browser so any information they share on any secured page is protected.

Other benefits of SSL include SEO boost as Google introduced HTTPS as a ranking factor in the search engines and prefers websites with SSL encryption. This will give a website boost within Google ranking by just because of the SSL certificate added to the domain name.

Spam filtering. Spams eat a lot of space online. While most people won’t mind some of commercials to support certain sites, some sites can also get infected with spam, causing e-mails or pop-ups. Businesses usually look to have their site protected from these for the benefit of their visitors while in their site. This feature is called spam stop, which is usually offered by your web hosting services.

RAID protection. If you are hosting your business through a good web hosting service this feature will be available to you. This layer of protection offered to guests will ensure a better web experience, so make sure to ask your web hosting service for the details of this feature.

DDOs attack security. DDOs attacks are common to enable protection for websites and their content. DDOs stands for distributed denial of service. This security feature will protect your content from spam by its attacks that are typically created by multiple users. A slowed website for no apparent reason can mean that it’s a victim of a DDOs attack. Make sure to speak with your web hosting service to apply this kind of protection.

Content backup. This special protection will save your content if any damage has been done. To ensure that your site is up and running within moments of an attack you need to for content backups. This simple security is offered to you from your web hosting service, so make sure to utilize it.

Secure data centers. When content is vital and you deal with different personal information you will need to secure it through your server using a secure data center. These centers are typically safe from Mother Nature and in a remote location like the desert where no bad things usually happen (floods, fire, storms, etc.). Check with your host for available options for this security feature, if they offer one in the first place.

As stated in the beginning, website security cannot be overstated especially with what we’re facing right now. Any business looking to stay on business and weather the COVID-19 storm must apply these protection and more in the service of its users.

Are you planning to shop for a laptop? There many options available and you ultimately must choose whether to buy a new, used or a refurbished one. This article will make it easy for you to choose.

If you are looking to extract as much value as possible from your next laptop purchase, a new or refurbished option may appear to be the most enticing. While there are risks involved in buying used electronics such as laptops, there are many ways to go about ensuring that you are happy with your purchase.

Cost-saving

If you are trying to save cost, then buying a refurbished or used laptop is your best option. This is also a great choice for those looking for a laptop for work, school or general use. Refurbished or used laptops cost up to half the price of new ones, so there certainly is some value in terms of cost-saving. Most computer manufacturers offer refurbished laptops for sale. These computers are great in the sense that they have been repaired and restored to normal working condition. If manufacturer refurbished laptops are not an available option, you should look for reputable retailers like mynextbox.com

Used is not the same as refurbished

The terms used and refurbished are sometimes confusing, but they cannot be used interchangeably. Refurbished laptops usually come from manufacturers like HP, and are restored by experienced technicians to good conditions. The process of refurbishing used laptops could include replacing broken parts such as screens and keys, battery replacement, ports, and other parts.

To get reliable refurbished laptops, you need to purchase directly from manufacturers or from trustworthy retailers.

Used laptops are usually sold by customers who have purchased a newer model, decided that the laptop no longer meets their needs, or they need the funds to attend an emergency. Used laptops do not go through rigorous checks like refurbished laptops which is why they come with higher risks than refurbished laptops. Used laptops could have several issues that the buyer may not detect at the point of purchase. Online retailers like Amazon offer all kinds of deals. Here, sellers can list their used laptops, but you can also find manufacturer certified refurbished laptops with a limited warranty.

Proper research is recommended when purchased used laptops.

• Inspect the laptop for any defects and damages that weren’t listed by the seller. This may include opening up the laptop to have a quick peek inside
• Check for warranties
• Check what’s covered by the warranty
• Check return policies

If you plan to watch videos, write emails and documents, do some work, or engage in internet usage, a used or refurbished laptop is a great option.

A Master’s of Business Administration has long been a path to management, though that’s not the only career path it opens up. Online MBA programs are more popular than ever, allowing people to earn a legitimate MBA online. In fact, an online MBA program has a number of points in its favor over attending a local brick and mortar school. Here are 6 reasons why getting your MBA online could be the best decision you’ve ever made.

Flexibility

An online MBA is perfect for those who need flexibility. It often allows you to consider working while going to school, making it easier to afford your degree. It also allows you to balance family and education more easily, whether you attend classes after putting the kids to bed or simply reducing the logistical hassles of attending school.

For example, many online MBA programs combine scheduled or synchronous class time with asynchronous learning that you do when it suits you. Online courses can be selected based on their time of day, allowing you to choose classes that fit your schedule. This is great for parents who want to take classes while the kids are at school, or those working the night shift that can’t attend classes during the day. Or you may be able to take classes when on your break from work.

The Ability to Find the Ideal Fit

Because there are so many accredited online MBA programs, you can find one that is the right fit for you. A good online MBA program from an accredited school will give you all the skills you need to move into management. However, you can choose an online MBA that teaches the exact material you need to learn to advance your career. You can choose a school that fits your wants and needs, too. This is far better than having to sign up for the only programs available in your area and hoping you’re happy with it.

The Time Savings

Online MBA degrees have a number of advantages. One of the greatest benefits is that it can save you time. It isn’t just the ability to study at home instead of having to drive to and from campus to attend class; online MBA programs tend to be streamlined, and depending on your experience, availability and commitment, you may be able to finish an online MBA in as little as nine months. In contrast, the traditional MBA takes two years or more. You’ll earn a degree around one year faster, allowing you to start that higher paying job that much sooner. It also opens the door to enrolling in a dual degree program. That both opens up more career options and lets you finish your education that much faster.

Affordability

There are online MBA programs that cost five to fifteen thousand dollars a year. This is often a fraction of the cost of living on campus to go to school or attending a brand name college. Furthermore, you have more flexibility in when you start and take classes. For example, you could take fewer credits per semester, lowering the cost and making it easier to continue working while attending. You can choose when you start the program and how long it takes to finish based on what fits your family or work schedule.

How are online MBA programs able to offer such a low cost? The schools don’t have to maintain amenities like dorms, cafeterias, libraries or classrooms. Furthermore, they end up having fewer employees per student, since they don’t need people taking care of the school infrastructure that isn’t used by online students. Yet this may not affect the student-faculty ratio.

You save money on the associated educational costs, too. You can take online classes without having to move cross-country to live on campus. You can take the classes while living in your current home and working to pay the rent. You don’t have to pay for gas and parking for your car or a transit pass.

The Push to Master New Technology

If you’re attending online classes, you’re going to do more than bring up a web page and watch videos. You’re going to be hard-pressed to master new technology. You’ll need to use a variety of online chat, documentation sharing, and collaboration tools to connect with teachers and classmates. You’ll learn how to use online meeting tools and feedback systems as part of your classes. You’ll become fluent in a variety of modern tools in addition to the material that you’re learning in your classes.

The Broader Network

One of the points in favor of earning an MBA is that you create long-lasting bonds with other professionals. They may be the next manager who hires you or someone who aids you in the launching of your new business. A benefit of online MBAs is that you end up with a much more varied network than the conventional MBA program. The online MBA program will have a geographically broader student community.

You could learn about international business by talking to classmates working on the other side of the world or foreign students who’ve joined the online program without having to leave home. You’ll also be able to connect with working adults and parents who want to earn a degree before re-entering the workforce. Students will be in a variety of life stages and on dramatically different career paths. And any and all of them may be in your classes.

Another point in favor of online classes is that you’ll connect with people taking the same classes you are through online forums, chats and study groups. Ironically, the flexibility of online MBAs means you can continue your education if you move, too. Then you can continue your education whether you move in with your parents or take an overseas assignment.

All MBA programs prepare you to move into management or executive roles. Online MBA programs do this while providing a number of additional benefits you won’t get sitting in the standard classroom.

In this smartphone age, there are apps we can download to our phones to do practically anything, from social media to business transactions and from choosing investments to playing games.

But did you know there are also plenty of apps out there that can make you some handy extra income? Here are some of the coolest money-making apps you can download today.

Photo selling apps

There are billions of webpages out there online, with thousands more being added literally every minute. Every one of them requires some sort of image, and many have several. The people behind Foap cottoned on to the fact that in this age of everyone owning a smartphone we are in the habit of of taking thousands of photos, and they brought together supply and demand. You can charge what you like for your pictures, and Foap will simply split the proceeds with you.

Money gaming apps

Surely anyone who thinks casino games are a way to make money is setting himself up for a fall – after all, the house always wins, right? Not necessarily. The gaming sector is crowded and competitive, meaning sites are offering all sorts of bonuses and incentives. It’s worth keeping up to date with the latest news about free spins on free-spins.org to find out about the very latest offers. After all, it becomes much less of a gamble when you are playing with free money!

Survey apps

Filling out surveys for rewards is nothing new – in fact it is something many of us remember our parents and grandparents doing long before anyone had heard of the internet or a smartphone app. Today, there are more options around than ever. Knowledge is power in the big data age, and research firms will pay you for your time in providing valuable information. Having said that, you are never going to get rich taking surveys, and you might wonder if it is really worth the time. That’s where sites like Swagbucks make a difference. Once registered, you can do as few or as many surveys as you like, but with the add-on app, you will also find yourself earning bonus points just by visiting sites or making online purchases. Even if you never fill out a survey in your life, it is worth installing. i-say mobile is another option that works on similar principles and offers lucrative points bonuses when you buy from companies like Amazon or iTunes.

Apps for selling things

Yes, we all know about Gumtree, eBay and so on, but who really enjoys taking the photos, writing the adverts and then dealing with the jokers and timewasters? There are specialist apps for particular products whereby all you need to do is scan your item and you’ll be connected with a range of buyers. For example, Bookscouter will get immediate prices for your old books at the scan of a barcode, while Cash Your Laptop is a great and hassle-free tool for making money from your unwanted tech.

ROI, or ‘return on investment’ is a formula that evaluates the gain versus the cost associated with a business investment. ROI usually refers to a numerical value that offers a simple insight into whether an investment was worthwhile. However, you can form a deeper analysis by considering the positive effects, such as improved engagement and productivity, that may lead to a financial return in the long run. This is often known as a ‘soft ROI’.

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These positive effects are commonly associated with internal intranet systems. Whilst some companies may shun this technology as ‘millennial nonsense’, the reality is that the impact it can have on employee satisfaction provides a valuable return on your investment. Here, experts in all things intranet, Oak, have rounded up four key ways this technology can increase your businesses ROI.

1. Estimate the value of your time

Leading provider of market intelligence for the IT industry, International Data Corporation, estimate that large businesses can spend over $2.5million annually simply looking for information. Another study by American Worldwide management consultancy, McKinsey supports this, having found that the average employee can spend over 1.8 hours daily trawling the web for basic information needed to do their job.

Intranet’s act as knowledge hubs, so your employees can share their knowledge and findings. As this builds up, it becomes an essential database where people can find the information they require, quickly and efficiently.

2. Can you put a price on disengagement?

According to a study about retaining people by Oxford Economics the average cost of recruitment and retention is £30,614 per person. This takes everything into consideration from the time spent interviewing to the 28 weeks (approx.) it takes for a new worker to reach optimum productivity.

It is also estimated that two thirds of British workers feel disengaged at work and engaged employees have been found to perform 202% more efficiently than their disconnected counterparts. So, it seems focusing on engagement is certainly in the best interest of your business and its expenses.

3. Going green can save you $$$

Printing documents in the digital era is like using a fork to eat soup – a total waste of time.  Having access to documents on a cloud based platform not only allows businesses to function more efficiently, but will help cut down your carbon footprint and overhead costs due to less cash spent on printing.

4. Keep your employees connected

It’s been reported that up to 74% of workers feel as if they are missing out on company news and updates, however an intranet has the power to change that. Businesses can broadcast important company or industry updates to keep employees connected and informed, thus illuminating the risk of ‘hear-say’ and gossip, which is a renowned productivity killer.

A successful intranet system is proven to boost organisational efficiency, employee engagement and satisfaction, all of which are just some of the factors that should be considered when measuring ROI.