Web Hosting and Database Support
Article Posted by Expert Author: Nancy Ruskus on 02/04/2013
Database support as it relates to web hosting refers to the type of storage your web host may offer. Different kinds of storage will be needed in order for your web site to have various functions. For example, if you want your site to have a forum where members of the online community can gather to share their thoughts, then you will likely need a PHP database. Business web sites requiring shopping carts will need access to a database like OSCommerce or ZenCart.
Many users wonder why text isn't a sufficient way to store data. After all, it does sound much simpler! However, a text database would only allow one person at a time to access it. If your web site were to become popular, how would all of your visitors be able to post their comments in your forum or order the same product from you at the same time? This is where database support comes in. Just like a spreadsheet, database support offers multiple options for organizing data, as well as allowing a large number of people to access, record and use the data at the same time.
SQL is probably the most common database in use on modern web sites. SQL stands for Structured Query Language, and represents a standard method of modifying and retrieving data from a database. It's essential that any website having database support be as reliable as possible, which will require regular maintenance and the best tech support from your web site hosting company.
Choosing the best type of database support for your website is not always an easy task. But you can contact your web host or list of prospective hosts and ask them which kinds of servers and operating systems they would recommend to you. It may also be a good idea to ask the host about the advantages and disadvantages of each option so that you can make an informed decision.
At HostingAndBackup.com our goal is to help people new to the web hosting and online backup scene to grasp how to navigate various tasks, and to understand the flexibility they have in utilizing these services. We will continue to provide useful articles that are quick to read and clear to understand so that you can learn at your own pace.
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