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Comparing Reseller Hosting and VPS Hosting

How does reseller hosting compare with Virtual Private Server hosting? What features are available for each hosting environment? Find out below.

Reseller or VPS

Many consumers go for the cheapest option. Not so much with web hosting. Affordability might not be enough. A cheap solution might not bode well for your online enterprise. Think big. You will immediately understand that a more complete plan promises greater functional, monetary, and emotional benefits. These you can get from a dependable hosting company.

Instead of shared hosting, make a choice between Reseller and Virtual Private Server hosting. You do not compete with other users for server resources. Besides, these two plans do not pose problems such as shared bandwidth, limited usage, and reduced admin features. For performance and security, you better look for a more robust package. Focus on reseller and VPS for the meantime. And, find out which one is a practical alternative.

Measure of Performance

Blue-chip performance always counts in web hosting. Keep this in mind if you want satisfied clients. A web analytics solutions provider conducted a survey among Internet users. Almost ½ of respondents expected websites to load within a maximum of two seconds. Otherwise, browsers normally abandon sites that fail to load after three seconds.

Nearly 80% of online shoppers who encounter site performance issues refuse to return to that e-commerce store. About 44% tell friends of this unpleasant experience. What is the main point here? One or two seconds of sluggish page loading results in potential loss of customers. However, various hosting providers supposedly offer different features. So, users must compare performance smartly.

Importance of Comparison

Begin with analogy. Those who favor reseller hosting cite “economies of scale” as a major benefit of this plan. The term refers to “proportionate or balanced cost-savings generated by increased production level.” Resellers create an account with the web host which allow them to acquire server space and bandwidth in volume from the supplier. This reduces the cost significantly. Resellers divide the package into smaller retail values for their customers. The “Economies of Scale” concept applies because the reseller sources in bulk to provide the consumer with cost-effective hosting solutions.

Resellers must only concentrate on marketing the service. Administration, maintenance, upgrades, and similar functions are the main host’s responsibilities.  Hence, the reseller can focus on promoting services to consumers. The approach enables users with little or no technical expertise to engage in reselling. You simply learn marketing fundamentals.  It is not mandatory to possess special skills or knowledge. 

You can liken the Virtual Private Server to modern office operations. Management divides resources equally. For example, one PC is apportioned into sections. IT personnel connects the Central Processing Unit (CPU) to four monitors and keyboards. Even then, this approach limits the productivity of each user. Everyone is affected if a glitch happens if the hardware crashes.

At any rate, VPS segregates the single physical server to produce multiple servers within the platform.  Each virtual server is totally autonomous of its neighbors and functions like a real networked server. VPS hosting has turned out popular because it provides control at a level like the dedicated server at an economical price not far from shared hosting.

Reseller Pros

As the term suggests, reseller hosting benefits the reseller. The reseller hosting provider enables several end-users to host their sites using the provider’s service. You host multiple portals on the worldwide web and earn revenue at the same time. Here are the upsides of this plan.

  • You will find it easy to set up and manage reseller hosting. Users do not have to be tech-savvy at all.
  • The reseller hosting platform includes a custom control panel together with a variety of themes. Resellers exercise control over the control panels of their clients. In the same manner, customers can also opt for a personalised panel.
  • Reseller hosting is not expensive. You can also select from various packages with simple upgrades. Users can choose between Windows and Linux open-source software.
  • With this type of hosting, it is possible to manage your website with Web Host Manager (WHM) and cPanel.

Virtual Private Server Pros

As a cross between shared and dedicated hosting, VPS provides the “best of both worlds” in hosting services. With the VPS hosting, important resources such as the following are not shared with other consumers:

  • Central Processing Unit (CPU)
  • Random Access Memory (RAM)
  • Disk Space

Independent sections help maintain website performance. The owner obtains complete root access of the server even if the main server is shared with other end-users. One more valuable feature is that the Virtual Private Server comes with the WebHost Manager. You can create many accounts for reselling purposes. Web developers and designers can use the VPS to power heavy-duty websites and apps.

  • One server is divided and distributed among multiple users. Each user gets his or her own set of resources.
  • VPS Hosting is inexpensive letting users effortlessly scale and upgrade their hosting plans whenever needed.
  • It is appropriate for website owners requiring a customised environment with little technical know-how.
  • With this kind of hosting, you get more control over the server because of full root access. It is easy to adjust nameservers and install applications.

Managed or Unmanaged

Aside from comparing reseller with VPS hosting options, consider the aspects of managed and unmanaged hosting as well.

The managed hosting model is one wherein the customer leases server or cloud computing resources from service providers. Managed hosting includes server maintenance, network configuration, OS management, resource monitoring, and security updates. Benefits for business websites of this model include:

  • Lower operating expenses
  • Security
  • Monitoring of server
  • 24/7 technical support
  • Backup system

Unmanaged hosting refers to the plan that has few or no extra services. Users usually get a server with an installed OS. Installation of other apps is the end-user’s responsibility. Of course, you pay less but get almost no support from the service provider.

Aspect of Scalability

Scalability is the key factor when it comes to the choice between reseller and virtual. Providers claim that scalability is not a problem in reseller hosting. However, the VPS has the capability to handle the maximum amount of website traffic or visitors at any given time. Customisable features of the Virtual Private Server allow users to scale fast and with hardly any difficulty. If you need to scale up for the purpose of meeting demands, it would be wise to invest on VPS hosting service for the long-term.

Security is a Must

Security is of the essence in this industry. The online business is a matter not only of making profit but minimising and coping with threats. These risks come in the form of hacking, breaches, malware, and other modern-day hazards.

In comparing reseller hosting and Virtual Private Servers, differences become clear right away. Is the online entrepreneur equipped to handle hacking issues? If not, your reputation is badly damaged. There are also serious problems like downtime costs and website upkeep or repairs.

Regardless of your preferred plan, there will always be security risks and vulnerabilities. The level of security for a reseller or VPS platform will depend on the software configuration. Security is a complex subject matter. The practical website owner will keep an eye on the following concerns:

  • Run a software or app that you require. Remove an application that you do not need.
  • Configure firewall to limit access only to vital services and locations that require access. Block anything that can cause harm to your site.
  • Choose strong passwords for user accounts.
  • Allow only the normal users to log in.

The Main Difference – Which Hosting Plan to Choose?

The option of Reseller of Virtual Private Server hosting is the owner’s or user’s prerogative. Consider the web-based business that you are operating. If you are a reseller, then go for reseller hosting for all intents and purposes. It is the most reasonable choice.

On the other hand, a more established web enterprise that enjoys high volume of traffic can switch to Virtual Private Server hosting.  Your current provider may no longer be able to handle numerous visitors. Here is the basic difference between the two platforms:

  • Reseller hosting permits the user to manage an online business venture that involves providing hosting service to his or her clients.
  • VPS hosting applies to any business model in which you obtain hosting to manage your website.

Your Best Move as Business Proprietor

To recap, these two services cater to different types of business audiences or markets. There are advantages and disadvantages for each. You can start with reseller hosting first and proceed to VPS later. Moving from the reseller option to VPS is recommended only if you must have complete control over the server.

For instance, you need more apps or make changes not permitted on shared servers. If not, almost 100% of resellers prefer the reseller plan because you get reseller tools free of charge like the WebHost Manager Complete Solution or WHMCS. The reseller also secures managed hosting for your customers.

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How to Transfer from TSOHost

This guide will help you seamlessly transition from TSO Host to another provider.

Like many of the experienced UK-based hosting firms, TSOHost has proven itself as a capable provider for the last decade hosting more than 150,000 sites. However, website owners have the prerogative to transfer from TSOHost to another company. Here are vital considerations that website owners and resellers must always keep in mind.

IPS Tags

The Internet Provider Security (IPS) tag currently known as Term Registrar Tag pertains to Registrars that list .UK domains. Changes in the IPS tags are necessary in moving .UK domain names from a certain Registrar to another even if an EPP Code/Authorization Key (auth/epp code) is not assigned to the domains. Changing the IPS tag involves the following steps:

  • Sign in to your hosting account.
  • Proceed to the Domain list.
  • Click Manage beside the preferred domain.
  • Navigate to the Sharing and Transfer tab.
  • Click Change found in the Transfer Out section.
  • Accomplish the form. Click Save Changes.

It normally takes between 24 and 48 hours for any modifications to take effect. Get in touch with your provider’s technical support team for requests in changing said tag. You have the option to transfer and replace your TPS Tag if somebody else purchased the domain or one of your clients make this demand. In implementing this move, open a support ticket at http://my.tohost.com so the provider’s support team can make the necessary adjustments. The provider cannot reverse any corrections.

ClientTransferProhibited

ClientTransferProhibited Status prevents users from moving a domain without the knowledge and approval of the domain registrant. To remove this status and perform the transfer, arrange to unlock the domain name with the Registrar. This practice applies to Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) domain names. Said status is like ClientUpdateProhibited that prevents any amendments in the domain. Providers enable the status for the first two months to protect your domain registration. Follow these steps in adjusting:

  • Log in to your http://my.tohost.com account.
  • Proceed to My Domains. Choose Manage next to the domain you want unlocked.
  • Click Unlock Domain found under Domain Management.

The .UK Domains

You should change the IPS tag for all .UK domains to release said domain to the new Registrar.

  • Verify this request. Do not accept requests through phone. Any request must be sent through email.
  • Confirm the request to the intended recipient of the IPS tag.
  • After confirmation, look for the domain in the Web Host Manager Complete Solution (WHMCS). Click the Release button.
  • This will prompt you to the new IPS tag. Type the details correctly. Otherwise, it is not easy to revert if the transfer is made to the wrong tag.
  • Confirm to the customer after completing the task to initiate transfer to this new Registrar.

For incorrect transfers, Nominet UK (Domain Name Registry in the United Kingdom) is capable of reversing transfers. This applies to .com, .org, .support, as well as Generic top-level domains or GTLDs. For GTLDs, users must have access although they require guidance. Customers must ensure the domain is unlocked and they hold the EPP Codes.

Transfer of Websites to other Hosts

The transfer requires these steps:

  • Move the website’s database and files.
  • Configure the application to function correctly at the new host.
  • Point your Domain Name System to the new host.

File Transfer Protocol (FTP) is the most convenient method of moving your files to the new hosting account. Connect to your account before downloading files locally to your PC. Upload the files to the main folder of your new hosting account. It is usually Public_HTML, www, or http docs.

To move the database, export the content from your previous hosting account (normally to the SQL file). Create a new database with the incoming provider before importing the information.

Ideally, website owners must not worry regarding transferring from one host to another.  It all depends on user hosting requirements, spending budget, and preferences for specific packages.

Relocation of Websites

Before anything else, you need to decide on and purchase another web host. Back up your present account to this provider. Check for possible missing links, website structure revisions, and database flaws. Switch the DNS records of your site. Now, wait for the Domain Name System change to generate.

Switch Web Host

Your initial step is to find a preferred location. Sign and complete all the documentation for renting the hosting space. Package your website to include all your assets. Move everything to the next web host before pointing your domain by replacing the DNS record. Switching to another provider entails several actions in correct order. This will ensure proper turnover.

Purchasing the Host

You can choose from different UK hosting providers. Each one offers a variety of configurations and solutions. Spend time to evaluate the candidates and determine which one is appropriate for your needs based on server configuration, bandwidth, security, space, and costs. Focus on your requirements and not the hype alone.

If possible, come up with a checklist to compare, assess, and rate hosting firms. While making the purchase, try to register your domain to a third-party provider. This will come in handy if you decide to switch hosts in the future.

Need for Backup

Back up your website to the new host. Start with static files. This kind of file does not change automatically, often, or through content editors. In backing up these sites, copy previous file structures to the new hosting firm. For dynamic websites running on databases such as MySQL, install the apps from the existing site to the new host before making the final transfer.

You may execute a direct transfer of your data files if your web app provides straightforward functionality. One example is the import and export function of WordPress. Otherwise, you need to tweak PHP and MySQL configuration files if your program does not offer that function.

Final Verifications

Make last-minute checks before implementing your move. See to it everything functions properly on your site after loading the files in the new hosting configuration. Some web hosts supply the development staging platform, so you can preview your website without difficulty. This approach enables you to address problems right away.

Look out for missing links. There is always the possibility to misplace graphics or leave some files behind while moving assets from your former hosting environment. When this happens, your visitors are likely to encounter 404 errors. Monitor the 404 logs during and following the move. The log alerts you of malfunctioning links for resolution and help you in restoring your website to become 100% functional.

Repair Website Navigation Using .htaccess

Use the .htaccess (redirect or redirect match) in pointing out old file locations to the new locations. Define the 404 pages to deal with and lessen damage produced by broken links. Redirect the dynamic pages to another location. Your database is prone to corruption during the transfer.

If you can manage to access the WordPress dashboard, try disabling all the plugins and find out if the database functions correctly. Re-enable each plugin individually. Check your home page each time the plugin undergoes said process to ensure it shows properly.

  • Reupload your database overwriting the new one.
  • Identify where the corruption error originated.
  • Try uploading that file again from the old to the new website.
  • Open the file. Make sure it points to the new server.

WordPress Database Repair

You may have to perform coding work if some functions fail. To begin with, open the new website in File Transfer Protocol. Proceed to wp-config.php file. You can find this file at the main folder where your site is located. Make backup copies of all files before making edits to the PHP files. Copy and paste in Notepad before saving to the desktop. This will save documents if your files become corrupted. Save the changes. Leave the FTO program open for the meantime.

Importance of Reputation

You can rely on a capable web host or registrar to facilitate hassle-free transfer of your domain name. In most instances, you may have handled the process of domain registration if you already have a website. However, domains are associated with the hosting firm or registrar. Henceforth, it is always advisable to employ a professional service firm that will guarantee satisfaction and excellent performance.

Final Thoughts

Website owners will look for a reseller hosting provider that has the capacity and experience to satisfy its customers. The smart entrepreneur will choose the host that makes a real difference and is more dependable compared to the competition. You can get the most out of this company for support, performance, and security. While there are many reliable hosts in the UK, trust your intuition and opt for the company that leaves a positive impression on you.

Continue to browse http://resellerhost.co.uk/ for other valuable information on reseller hosting, such as guides and tips for resellers.

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Everything You Need to Know About Web Panels

Those who are new to web hosting will find useful information about web control panels using this guide.

The hosting control panel or web panel refers to the interface that enable administrators and users to manage multiple server functions from web browsers rather than command lines. Website owners especially the inexperienced ones will find it hard to manage hosting and set up their websites without these graphical interfaces.

Hosting Tool

Web panels are basically hosting management tools providing users with web-based interfaces for website management. Without this interface, the user must log in first to the server and manage files using the traditional method. The control panel is a boon for beginners who do not possess programming expertise. Users can perform tasks by simply clicking the button.

The common features of a web panel include providing access to the following:

  • Management of Domain Name System (DNS) including web and mail domains
  • Management of Email System including email messages and quotas as well as spam prevention
  • File Transfer Protocol (FTP) management like user accounts, password management, and file system quotas
  • Access to web-based file system
  • SSH user and key management
  • Database management such as MySQL and database systems
  • Backup management
  • Log file access and reporting
  • Plugin system to configure additional services and installation of apps like WordPress.

Enterprise Features

Certain platforms include enterprise features.

  • Manage several servers from a single web panel interface.
  • Hosts can allow their clients to run the panel app parallel to the server.
  • Perform monitoring and install service alert
  • Conduct Internet Protocol Version 6 or IPv6 support, a network layer protocol that facilitates communication and data transfers over the network.
  • Ticketing system for users.

These options suit startups, big-scale enterprises, and hosting firms.

Detailed Discourse on Web Panels

Each panel generally offers similar basic features. These include domain management, emails, software installation, and File Transfer Protocol. However, such attributes, layouts, and control levels change. It depends on the web panel that you use.

cPanel and WebHost Manager

The widely-preferred cPanel and WHM consists of user-level and server management interfaces. These two interfaces match flawlessly making available intuitive hosting and website management for users specifically resellers. The interface also functions as a server administration tool for web hosts. cPanel is trusted by leading players in the hosting industry worldwide.

cPanel educates hosting providers, website owners, server administrators, and other experts. You can obtain relevant information from video tutorials, documentations, and knowledgebase. However, only Linux and Windows Operating Systems (OS) support said interfaces through a virtual setup.

With cPanel, users can avail of the following:

  • Free Secure Sockets Layer certificates installed for websites.
  • Block or prevent malicious visitors from accessing the user’s site. At the same time, it does not stop legitimate visitors from entering the website. The cPanel Hulk tool allows you to classify whitelist or blacklist accounts, countries, and IP addresses.
  • There is automated backup and restoration. Users can use progressive backups of files and folders through the Rsync. This utility effectively and promptly transfers as well as synchronises files across computer systems.
  • You can look forward to easy Peripheral Component Interconnect or PCI compliance. The cPanel and WHM server can turn out PCI compliant in several minutes because of the user-friendly editor and robust default configuration.

Hosts use the cPanel Application Programming Interface (API) to integrate features with their respective support systems.

Plesk

Plesk remains the main control panel in countries like the United States. It also saturated about 80 percent of the European market. This web panel supports Linux versions and is also compatible with Windows. Plesk comes in multiple editions. Each one is customised for individual hosting needs.

Some users say the interface is cleaner compared to cPanel. The two panels have practically the same features.

Plesk features include the following:

  • You can install Plesk on various Operating Systems. Plesk is compatible with Windows, Cloud Linux, Ubuntu, and CentOS. Likewise, you can run Plesk inside a Docker container in a Docker Hub. This aspect differentiates Plesk from cPanel. Docker refers to a PC program that performs OS-level virtualisation or containerisation.
  • Plesk added Git extension, a tool kit that makes Git work under Windows OS. This extension comes available with Plesk 12.5 and later models.
  • There is a one-click SSL security. Plesk secures the certificate and configures the database files to accommodate the http-only access. It is a guaranteed form of security for the web panel and websites being hosted on the server. Additional perks include SSL certificate renewal, running HTTP2 or revision of the HTTP network protocol, and security details if the server comes under attack.
  • A new extension will enable WordPress users to delegate security management to Plesk through a single click. This control panel will manage updates of plugins, security patches, and bug fixes.

Plesk supports various PHP versions. Node JS, Python, and Ruby are available through Phusion passenger.

DirectAdmin & Core Admin

DirectAdmin refers to the lightweight control panel supporting Linux. It contains essential features of the control panel which includes support for multiple customer setup. Users of DirectAdmin attribute the efficient user interface for beginners and expert users. It has a three-level design (Administrator, Reseller, and User) allowing straightforward switching between access types under the same login. Design layouts can be changed with the click of a button. This approach facilitates fast and easy modifications in the interface.

Core Admin was created as a centralised as well as connected solution that supports management of multiple servers. This is achieved through one web admin console. It includes cutting-edge permission and monitoring systems. The Free Web Edition is limited to take care of 10 domains.

Core Admin’s portal says it provides an extensive solution for servers as well as device admin. It integrates robust admin panels into one solution. Likewise, the comprehensive internal checking tool of this web panel along with the event notification system enables users to monitor status of users’ systems.

InterWorx

Two package versions of InterWorx are NodeWorx for server management and SiteWorx for site management. InterWorx includes a good plugin system for fast installation of apps such as the Softaculous web package manager. InterWorx also features a command line interface. The Linux server management platform has tools for server administrators while users can manage website operations.

CentOS

CentOS refers to the open-source and free control panel for CentOS Linux allocation. It includes a solid feature that can match other web panels. Its downside is lack of multiple server support. CentOS is meant more for Virtual Private Servers and Dedicated platforms.

ISP Manager

ISP Manager is Linux-based.  The ISP system offers this flexible control panel. ISP remains among the more popular control panels often used in Eastern Europe, particularly Russia. Both editions (ISP Manager Lite and ISP Manager Business) of this web panel can handle unlimited users and domains. The panel can be customised to meet branding needs of users.

Webmin

Webmin is another open-source web panel for system admin on Linux and Unix. It contains numerous modules capable of server configuration. It has a Cloudmin tool referring to a Webmin-based interface that manages virtual systems. Webmin complements browsers supporting forms, tables, and JavaScript for the file manager module. With this web panel, one can set up user accounts, Domain Name Systems, Apache, and sharing of files.

Multi Server Control Panel or i-MSCP

The open-source i-MSCP fits into the requirements of personal sites and hosting providers. Its remarkable feature is the active community that surrounds the platform. It comes along with a variety of modules for services that include Apache 2, Pro FTPd, Bind9, and Dovecot. This web panel may be extended using plugins or listener files.

Ajenti

The Ajenti is a well-designed and Python-based control panel. The web panel stands out among all panels based on PHP. It claims to have over 55,000 active end-users on different Linux and Free BSD distributions. This admin tool ensures a quick and protected manner of managing the remote Linux OS box making use of web terminals, text editors, or file managers.

Vesta

Vesta refers to the light and simple web panel. However, it does not support enterprise features such as multiple server setup. With Softaculous’ auto installer, website owners can install more than 430 applications with a single click.

A Recap

Before control panels emerged, the management of hosted services required administrative skills in server systems. Web panels entrust control of hosted services to website owners or administrators. Only the web browser is needed to fully manage hosted services. The standard web panel allows users to manage their websites, email accounts, databases, and domain. You can also monitor bandwidth and disk space use.

Keep in mind that you need to determine the hosting suitable for your requirements. This is important before finally choosing a web panel. It could be shared, dedicated, or virtual. Select one that offers the features you need for your website.

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How Agencies Can Use Reseller Hosting to Power Their Client’s Websites

Agencies can earn supplemental income by signing up for reseller accounts and offer their hosting services to clients.

This is passive income generated by spending extra time wisely. These agencies include those in marketing, graphic design, web design, and other related fields.

Passive income is always advantageous. It also turns out profitable without having to perform tedious work most of the time. As a marketer or web designer you can continue servicing clients while providing reseller hosting. With the cPanel platform, the service provider or customer can handle tasks simultaneously. Hosting becomes a convenient source of regular revenues.

Marketing Agencies

Online marketing entrepreneurs can take advantage of lull periods and manage their clients’ websites. As a marketer, you engage in multi-tasking by implementing promotional campaigns, selling brands, and renting out virtual space to startups as well as medium-sized businesses. Keep in mind though that as a reseller, you’ll be responsible for providing 100% reliability. You should be up on your toes all the time to deal with issues that may arise.

To develop into a productive reseller, you need a strategic plan which entails promoting your new service to small business owners. Make clear your reseller’s vision. Identify targets and objectives for motivation. This approach helps the marketing expert to determine target audiences. Some of the promotional techniques you can employ include:

  • Email and Direct Mail Campaigns
  • Online Advertisement
  • Networking
  • Blog Posts
  • Print Ads

Come up with a calendar of your reseller hosting marketing services for the year. This schedule must reinforce the business development plan that you formulated early on. Technically, you act as the host meaning disruptions will prompt email notifications to you and not the hosting firm. When this happens, you just contact the parent host’s customer support for the client. You as the reseller functions as middleman in the troubleshooting process.

It is good business practice to learn this new skill of overseeing hosting. This newly-found expertise can bring your business to a higher level. The main reason, however, of hosting your clients’ sites is the regular revenue. It might turn out as the vital spark for your marketing enterprise.

Marketing agencies obtain several benefits from offering reseller hosting:

  • You acquire continuous income stream. The money translates into a long-term investment.
  • You subsidise hosting costs through the reseller plan. By pricing packages correctly, the agency basically enjoys free website hosting.
  • There is low barrier to entry in reseller hosting compared to most online ventures. Subscribe to a plan and advertise your business. Success will depend on the marketer’s sales proficiency.

Graphic Design Agencies

Reseller web hosting proposes another income source for graphic design companies. Through the reseller hosting account, the graphic designer leaves technical management of the server as well as security concerns to the web host. If you decide to resell hosting, the billable resource (usually time spent) calls for little or practically no work on the reseller’s part. You simply serve as intermediary between the proprietor and the host’s support personnel.

The graphic designer’s primary concern is to make this additional business more enticing. You must become more competitive because many design companies double as resellers nowadays. Try to build that status as a designer and vendor at the same time. Set up and maintain the hosting. Provide reliable hosting resources to your client and watch as your referrals start to add up. You earn extra income while doing your regular design work.

Flexibility remains a key for the hosting reseller and graphic design agency. Your clients might not have the know-how to log in and fiddle with their websites. This is the perk of offering a complete graphic design service which includes hosting and maintenance. Resellers can simply build customised packages and supervise customer resources from the reseller account panel.

As an additional advice for agencies, you can choose from hosting categories such as the following:

  • Shared or Budget
  • Managed or Virtual Private Server
  • Hosted Platform

Web Designers

Prospects are bright for web designers. Shared hosting easily delivers the required web space to accommodate client projects. You can create numerous sites using leading Content Management Systems. These include WordPress, Drupal, and Joomla. Resellers generally obtain unlimited space from data hubs in the United Kingdom.

The sophisticated clustered hosting platform makes the system 100% seamless. It also ensures that clients’ sites do not compete for performance when an unexpected surge in demand takes place. Dedicated servers offer a more effective option for agency-resellers. The customised hardware assures users of high-level production for higher traffic volumes as well as complicated apps.

Web designers can also resell from the cloud. You benefit from a flexible and scalable cloud infrastructure. The cloud’s environment allows web design agencies/resellers to tweak resources available to end-users. It is more like a personal data facility. You can operate or shut down as many Virtual Machines as you want. Compared to shared hosting or VPS, you will not encounter in-built flaws related to scalable VMs in the cloud. Besides, the most recent cloud technology is safer than Virtual Private Servers.

For web design agencies and hosting resellers, the cloud presents reduced risks because of adaptability. It is possible to configure cloud servers paying only for performance needed. You need not worry about contracts, upfront payments, and no obstructions to start serving clients from the cloud platform.

White label hosting is ideal for resellers seeking to supply a dependable experience with their own branding. Your customers have the choice of logging in and managing projects behind your own branding.

Other Agencies

“Recurring revenue is the name of the game.” Agencies have the prerogative to earn periodic income by marketing, designing, developing, maintaining, and hosting. Regular earnings balance your finances monthly making hiring less risky and growth more attainable. You do not have to increase lead flow.

What should be an agency’s first move?

At the start, choose an experienced host with impressive credentials. Clients will likely leave if your hosting is slow and inconsistent.

  • Look for reputable companies in the UK that sell reseller hosting plans.
  • Create a short list.
  • Browse through reviews about each provider in your listing.
  • Choose independent and unbiased review portals with exhaustive assessment of different service providers. Information you get about these companies will help you make an informed decision.
  • After selecting a provider, your next step would be to identify the right package. Like other options, reseller hosting is classified into several levels or layers. Each one offers storage, number of accounts to be created, transfer, and other features. In many instances, you can begin with a basic package that suits your needs and choices.
  • Follow guidelines and instructions from the parent host particularly in the aspect of packages for potential clients.

Formulate your personalised package once you have signed up for the reseller account. You have a target audience so customising comes easier. Find clients who do not pay premiums if you are a web designer or developer supplying hosting services. It is an advantage because you are not obliged to deal with site maintenance.

Perhaps, the bottom line is to offer something that most of your competitors cannot bring to users. One possibility is to offer various channels to get in touch with you should the need arise or something related to Content Management Systems like WordPress. Create a niche in the industry. Make sure your prospects and clients remember you for that field. At the same time, come up with pricing for your packages that is easy to understand. It is one way of communicating your affordable rates to selected clientele.

Know the specifics of reseller hosting. Some providers contract with resellers charging on per-client basis. Others have additional rates every time the reseller adds customers. Common features that are normally included in reselling packages consist of the following:

  • Chance to brand your webhosting firm with the parent company
  • Manage your own packages
  • Configure various accounts depending on requirements
  • Disk space and bandwidth
  • Domain hosting
  • Pass features to customers like those offered by the main host to their users
  • Control panel
  • Email accounts
  • Tools for monitoring
  • Additional scripts

Here is a heads up for agencies: reseller hosting remains as one of the easiest methods of earning extra while doing your daily routine of marketing and designing. Almost all (if not all) Internet entrepreneurs and merchants need websites. Therefore, hosting is easy to market.

What’s the Upside for Agencies?

Reseller hosting will not give you an instant fortune. Nonetheless, consider the opportunity of selling hosting and networking capabilities. It is a perfect match for marketing and sales. Reseller hosting guarantees a steady supplementary income stream for agencies. You only invest time, patience, and practical sense to become a legitimate reseller. Why wait until tomorrow when the chance to become more profitable as an agency is now knocking on your door?

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Top 6 CMS for Reseller Hosting

There are various considerations when choosing a content management system for your reseller hosting enterprise. Below are 6 of the top CMS today.

Background on CMS

Content Management Systems (CMS) help users create, manage, edit, and administer web pages on one interface. It enables users to work with efficiency and build pages faster than creating them from scratch. With a CMS, you can develop uniform pages and streamline workflow. It also optimises web pages for search engine page results.

The CMS is a website-building framework that offers advanced and powerful tools as well as reliable customisation. Compared to the pure Hypertext Markup Language (HTML) Editor, CMS is very customisable although you cannot simply edit without a little technical knowledge. Most of the CMS platforms nowadays contain communities creating resources for them. In short, it is possible to utilise modules in adding features to your website.

Here are the top six Content Management Systems that is great for reseller hosts.

WordPress

WordPress started as a basic blogging tool. It later evolved into a versatile Content Management System.  The platform supports news websites, e-commerce, and practically all kinds of sites.  It is search-engine friendly. WordPress ranks higher compared to websites built on other systems.

This is because the website’s code is clearer making it easier for search engines to better comprehend search terms in ranking WordPress. Aside from this, numerous plugins extend the platform’s Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) capability than its counterparts. More than 19,000 free apps and plugins are available on the said platform. The abundance of applications eliminates the cost of writing custom codes for users.

WordPress also sustains new optimisation standards like schema.org. This set of schemas help webmasters embed organized data on their website pages for different search engines. Besides, WordPress is open-source meaning that developers and programmers globally contribute to the code’s improvement. The software does not require any license unlike similar platforms.

Finally, this CMS runs on Linux. This operating system (OS) as against Microsoft is safer and less vulnerable to attacks.  It has better uptime since it does not issue security patches often. These patches require rebooting which translates to downtime for the website.

Squarespace

Squarespace refers to the compact website building platform with tools for sharing stories online. It is used to design websites, purchase custom domains, or build online shops. This CMS contains built-in features. Thus, there is no need to perform troubleshooting, worry about compatibility issues, or deal with concerns outside the platform’s customer support/knowledge base.

It is a CMS noted for good-looking templates. Each one provides users with multiple options with regards to functionality and appearance. You will find it easy to create a beautiful site even with limited know-how in web development and coding. With Squarespace, you can simply make and manage any changes. The CMS hosts all its sites. Unlike WordPress, there is no need to find a service provider for your hosting requirements.

Squarespace boasts of a style editor with robust customisation functions. It has pre-fabricated and trendy templates for the straightforward web design process.  Other valuable features include the following:

  • Addition of logos
  • Inclusion of icons for sharing and comments
  • Modify colors and fonts for links, headers, and buttons
  • Online image editing due to integration with Aviary photo-editing platform for iOS.

Weebly

Weebly is hyped as one of the simplest website builders available in the market. With this Content Management System, you can just drag and drop content into your site. It is natural and not complicated. Building websites literally entails dragging Weebly’s elements into the website.

  • Images
  • Videos
  • Paragraphs
  • Maps
  • Contact Forms
  • Buttons

With this CMS, you organise and save all completed tasks without the risk of accidental deletion, overwriting, or damage. The user auto-saves files as preventive measure for possible hardware crashes. Weebly also has a spell-checker for students and new writers. Users do not have to download any software or plugins. This platform can export data from your site using zip files. It also edits HTML and CSS codes for customised templates. Your website becomes mobile responsive automatically.

Wix

Wix is one of the newest platforms in this industry. It was built on the concept of a drag-and-drop interface as well as customised templates. The CMS was designed to assist non-web developers in creating a practical website. Your website looks good on any mobile device due to optimszation.

For example, with the Wix Editor, the user can start from scratch or use more than 500 designer-built templates. The cutting-edge design features make websites look more vibrant with animation, scroll effects, and videos. You can choose from over 100 fonts and upload more from the web.

Wix was designed for amateurs notwithstanding customisation limits. This website builder is the typical What-You-See-Is-What-You-Get. In other words, you drag and drop content, photos, slideshows, and shopping cart buttons to the builder before creating your site.

The Wix technical team perform all updates before automatically deploying them to your website. You do not even know the update was made. This is a benefit for users without any technical expertise.

Joomla

Joomla is also a free and open-source CMS for publishing content on the web. It follows the framework of model-view-controller web app run independently of the Content Management System. Joomla has emerged as one of the most accepted website applications because of these features:

  • Accessibility
  • User-Friendliness
  • Multilingual Functions
  • Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
  • Responsiveness

The platform is in between Drupal and WordPress in terms of difficulty. However, Joomla basically offers the same modern features. The visually-focused interface makes this CMS more manageable with an easier learning curve than Drupal. However, it offers fewer themes compared to WordPress.

Joomla is perfect for web developers, individuals, and companies with requirements that are more complex than the core packages of other systems. Its powerful app helps developers come up with innovative add-ons. This feature extends Joomla’s capabilities into almost unlimited directions.

The essential Joomla framework allows developers to effortlessly and promptly build the following:

  • Tools for data reporting and communications
  • Inventory control systems
  • Custom product directories
  • Application bridges
  • Comprehensive e-commerce systems
  • Complicated business catalogs and indexes
  • Reservations systems

Joomla is based on MySQL (Structured Query Language) and PHP (Hypertext Processor) database management systems. Hence, users can look forward to building potent apps on an open-source platform. Anybody can use, support, and share Joomla.

Drupal

Drupal is considered an enterprise-level heavyweight. This platform’s useful toolbox consists of multifaceted portals as well as advanced security. The tools are more powerful compared to other CMS platforms like WordPress. It needs less memory than WordPress.

In other words, Drupal will perform better on the same hosting package. However, it is not amateur-friendly. The system is quite confusing with respect to building convoluted functions. The learning process takes longer. Unless you are a developer, it becomes necessary to employ an expert in Drupal to build your website.

Users acknowledge Drupal as having numerous features and being highly-customisable. Satisfied customers say it shines as a Content Management System. The user interface enables you to develop and publish content without difficulty.

  • Drupal accommodates unlimited types of content to include text and media. It can deal with customisable forms.
  • This CMS retrieves, screens, and presents content using simple but powerful tools.
  • The platform has built-in content creation capabilities plus effective editing tools. Drupal regulates access to features and content using superior classification and permissions systems.

Administrative along with end-user functionalities originate from modules. These include basic features, ability to log in, creation of content, production of photo galleries, and intricate voting systems. Once you download from Drupal.org or Drupal Core, you can look forward to common modules used for building websites. At the same time, developers have contributed modules available for free on Drupal Core.

Drupal represents an efficient web development platform. It conforms to contemporary object-focused programming patterns, HTML5 and Yet Another Markup Language (YAML) standards, and PHP best practices. It integrates outstanding web technologies like:

  • CK Editor (WYSIWYG text editor)
  • Symfony2 (PHP web app)
  • Twig (PHP Engine Template)
  • Backbone js (JavaScript Library)
  • Guzzle (HTTP Client Library)

The CMS extends functionality and achieves control over designs via the assorted add-ons that take the form of themes and modules.

How to Make a Good Choice

Content Management Systems offer formidable building tools for websites. There will always be a platform that will conform to your preferences and prerequisites. Stakeholders say it is an advantage to select a CMS with a large community of users. The bottom line is to go for the biggest and wide-ranging options. You have just seen each of the six platforms above. This guide can help you make a practical choice.

To sum up, here are the vital considerations in deciding which Content Management System to acquire:

  • Popularity of platform as well as easy installation
  • Complexity of your website
  • User’s technical understanding
  • CMS security features and frequency of updates
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Manual Installation Guide for WordPress on Reseller Hosting

WordPress remains as the leading Content Management System. It is easy to install and use, even for novices.

WordPress maintains a straightforward interface allowing easy use of plugins for functionality and support. As a user, you can gain access to many free and premium themes that can make your site look impressive. WordPress offers uncomplicated drag-and-drop procedures to place widgets on your site. It has the capacity to add codes for customisation and enhanced features.

Installing WordPress

You can install WordPress manually or by using a software. A practical option is the Softaculous platform. This refers to the commercial script library capable of automating installation of open-source web apps in websites. The Softaculous script is completed from the website control panel’s admin area. Users have a choice of interface tools.

  • Plesk
  • cPanel
  • H-Sphere
  • DirectAdmin
  • ISP Manager
  • InterWorx

Softaculous apps build tables in databases, install software, modify permissions, and adjust web server files for configuration.

Some users choose WordPress manual installation. The process applies to the creation of websites that everybody can view on the Internet. It is also possible to develop a staging platform for development. The manual procedure is not as complicated as some people think. Follow these fundamental steps.

Download WordPress

Your first step is to visit the WordPress website. As much as possible, download the newest version. Save the file to a location on your personal computer. Try saving it to the desktop. This will make it easier to locate the file when you want to use it on your hosting platform.

Upload WordPress

Upload the files to your hosting account (Public_HTML folder) after WordPress downloads the zip file to your PC. Some users own more than one domain linked to the hosting account. Therefore, see to it you upload the file to the appropriate directory. Two ways of uploading files for WordPress hosting are the following:

  • Choose a File Transfer Protocol (FTP) client like Filezilla. Filezilla refers to the open-source software provided for free. It is a cross-platform FTP, Secure File Transfer Protocol, and FTP-Secure with multiple features and tools. It supports operating systems like Mac OS X, Windows, and Linux.
  • Use File Manager in cPanel.

Any of the above-mentioned systems work the same to upload your zip file. However, many users go for cPanel since it does not require any program prior to use. On the other hand, Filezilla gives users a program for creating local backups for your site.

Using File Transfer Protocol Client

FTP represents a functional tool. It is ideal for users who want to determine details of their websites. In using an FTP program such as Filezilla, it is necessary to unload the zip file in your computer. Afterwards, upload all files to the right directory in your hosting account. The FTP’s process in setting up WordPress will consume more time compared to File Manager. Filezilla is ideal for those who work on programming development or who are planning to build a copy of the website.

Using cPanel File Manager

File Manager comes along with a variety of tools. It is more accessible from almost all web browsers of various FTP apps.

  • Click in File Manager from the cPanel.
  • Access your preferred directory by simply clicking Public_HTML.
  • Click ‘Upload’ option in the tool bar after navigating to the proper directory.
  • Click on the ‘Select File’. Upload the zip you downloaded from WordPress.org.
  • Click the ‘Go Back to…’ after the upload is complete. This is the link found at the bottom.
  • Choose the WordPress file. Click ‘Extract’ in the tool bar. Click this file once to select the file.
  • A new window will appear. You will receive a notification asking you the intended location of extracted files.  At this point, you must leave the default directory. Click on the Extract File or Files button to unpack the zip file.
  • You will see the WordPress folder in your directory. You can now transfer the folder’s contents for proper installation.  Remember that your website will be relocated at http://www.yourwebsite.com/WordPress if you fail to move your files. This may confuse some visitors which is not good for your website.
  • Click on the WordPress directory. This will show your files. Double-click to achieve this.
  • Choose all the files and folders. Click Move. In your computer, click on the top folder. Hold down the ‘CTRL’ key while clicking on the last file. For MAC users, look for the ‘Command’ key. A new window appears for moving all folders and files. Take away the WordPress part of your directory. You can find this at the end of the path. Your file path will appear as Public_HTML if you only have a single domain name.
  • When you are ready, click on the Move File or Files button.
  • Click on the Up One Level button to return to the directory of your website after the files have been moved.

Set up Database

Your next step is to set up the database. Create a database in your hosting account before starting with the installation process. This will enable WordPress to save all data required for your website to work properly.

  • Click on the ‘MySQL Database Wizard Tool’ from the cPanel dashboard.
  • Provide a name for your database. Click ‘Next Step’. Keep the name simple and easy to remember or identify.
  • Choose a username and password. This is the means of connecting your WordPress site to the database. Avoid using the term “Admin” for the username. In addition, use the Password Generator app for maximum security.
  • Always keep in mind the Database name, Username, and Password. Write the information down and store it in a secure location.
  • You need this information for the next step.
  • Click on the Create User button after setting up the details.
  • You must assign the privileges for this account in the next screen. This is the primary access point for the WordPress CMS.  Click on the checkbox which says ‘All Privileges’.

Your database is now ready for WordPress use. Copy your database name, username, and password correctly.

Installation of WordPress

It is now possible to set up your WordPress blog. To do this, proceed to http://www.yourdomain.com/wp-admin/install.php. In case your blog is in a subdirectory, go instead to this URL: http://www.yourdomain.com/subdirectory/wp-admin/install.php.

The first screen that you can see is the language selection window. Select your primary language and click on ‘Continue’. English may have been chosen by default. This will depend on the version of WordPress you downloaded from the developer’s website.

The next screen will inform you the elements required before installing WordPress. Click on the Let’s go! button found at the bottom left portion of your screen.

  • Insert your database name, username and password. Leave the “Database Host” as localhost. This will work with web hosts. If the “localhost” is not suitable for you, obtain the information from your web host or customer support.
  • Do not touch the Table Prefix unless you plan to run multiple installations of WordPress in one database. Always watch out for the prefix to your database name and username. This usually starts with the major account name. It looks like “accountname” plus the underscore. You can see is as you set up your database.
  • Click on Submit after you input your necessary information.
  • Click on the Run the Install button to proceed to the next screen.
  • You will need to provide certain admin information.  Enter the title of your website, admin username, password, and your email address. It is advisable not to use “Admin” for the administrator account. Bots and hackers will attempt to use that name in trying to access users’ websites.
  • Take note of your username and password. You will need these details to login to your WordPress Dashboard for easy site management.
  • Once you have provided your information, click on the Install WordPress button at the bottom left portion of your screen.

You have successfully set up your site. All you need to do is click on the Log In button and begin creating content.

Customising the Website

The final step is to customise your WordPress site. WordPress maintains enough flexibility (and even more than you expect) when it comes to the customisation process. For example, users must access over 45,000 plugins to help them design the perfect website that fits their requirements. Spend some time learning the system together with its benefits and features.

Sooner or later, you will be capable of designing a unique and impressive site without learning even one line of code.

If you proceed carefully and correctly, the entire experience will turn out pleasant and edifying.

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Guide to Establishing Reseller Hosting Business with WordPress Multisite

Learn more about WordPress Multisite and its benefits, features with this handy guide.

WordPress Multisite supports a WordPress enterprise. It allows online entrepreneurs and their clients to add maximum number of sites required in one Content Management System installation. The practice makes management of websites easy and economical instead of multiple installations. Understand the three available models intently. It will help you determine which one suits your needs. The combination of the two or three options can also work for you.

Three Choices

One – Hosting Client Websites You Build

You develop the site. Then, you host it on your Multisite installation. Develop personalised themes and plugins using WordPress Theme Frameworks.

If you’ve been creating WordPress sites for clients for a long time now, you’ll have noticed that a majority of users run WordPress installation with reseller hosting and that:

  1. Most of them at no time accessed their hosting admin screens. Developers did it for them.
  2. Clients did not update content or made changes in website configuration.
  3. Developers update each website every instance the CMS was updated. The providers also created the theme frameworks.
  4. Developers/Designers transferred clients’ email accounts to Gmail when problems arose.

If existing business models were not as efficient, you can only improve the platform by transferring to Multisite for hosting client websites. The process can be difficult and lengthy. Using WordPress Multisite makes life easier for both parties. Only one set of themes and plugins are necessary. Managing updates is one area which is more effective. It limits the number of themes and plugins for maintenance.

Two – Allowing Users to Create and Modify Websites

Provide a page where users can set up websites. Provide them with options to change content and appearance. Said option gives website owners more control. It also reduces the themes and plugins hosted on the network.

Users can modify websites through these two techniques:

  1. Through the Customer – Include advanced customer integration. Allow users to upload logos, add content to headers/footers, and adjust colors as well as layouts. The approach does not require installation of a new theme.
  2. Through Child Themes – Install parent themes on the network. It controls many aspects of design. With child themes, you can add fonts, custom colors, or layouts. You do not need to use the WordPress Customizer in achieving the same results. Provide users with a menu of themes to choose from. Users have less control but ensures consistency of websites on your network.

The major upside of using the Customizer is it gives users an easy way of building and configuring websites. The user sees the exact changes. Limited alternatives indicate you can guarantee design quality for all websites within that network. The disadvantage is clients may not favor an identikit website. Customizers suit markets where clients have minimal budgets and technical skills like freelance writers. 

Three – Allowing Users to Create Websites and Activate Themes/Plugins

Users can select themes and plugins for activation on their sites.  Additional ones come available for free. Users have more control. However, it is not totally appropriate for inexperienced users. The third option provides customers an experience like installing WordPress with web hosting firms. However, the user does not experience performing installation and taking care of hosting. The developer can pick themes and plugins users can access. Otherwise, offer themes and plugins for free or highly-priced premium plans.

The bottom line is each model ensures users various levels of control. The first provides control over configuration. Let the user add content. The second ensures more control. The third guarantees maximum control compared to creating WordPress installation from the start. Fees will be different.

Option #1 = Most Expensive

Option #2 = Less Expensive

Option #3 = Cheapest

Deciding on the Best Option

How do you go about the entire process?

Here are your considerations.

  1. The extent of preferred contact with clients. Your role could be someone who will help build web presence. Otherwise, perform tasks as service provider even if there is slight interaction with customers. Either way, a support system is crucial, so clients can contact you for technical or administrative assistance 24/7. Support systems can come in the form of email, phone, and chat. It could be at the front or back end, or both.
  2. You need a definite target market. Choose an audience that you understand. Formulate a strategy that will meet its preferences and requirements. You can concentrate on marketing after achieving this goal.
  3. Determine the size of your market. A hands-off technique will be more appropriate if research indicates the need to fill a niche for that marketplace. This tactic allows you to handle more clients.

Focus on Development Skills

The first option (Hosting Client Websites You Build) seems more advisable if you possess experience in developing customised sites. Avoid offering third-party plugins and themes. You do not give clients value by charging them for installation. Nowadays, the trend favors developers capable of developing custom-made websites. For example, the primary benefit for enterprises offering access to codes is convenience. In this case, the second and third models seem most applicable.

Selling Skills Count

It is necessary to sell more. With a hands-off strategy, it is not possible to charge high fees. You need more customers by charging less. Attaining this goal requires selling to more people. Website owners can hire experts or implement the task personally. At any rate, the objective is to get as many customers instead of servicing clients. You must develop current relationships. It is an effective way of contributing to the growth of clients’ businesses.

Plugins are the Key to Success

Aside from the Multisite installation, several plugins can make it easier for users to launch and sustain a successful hosting enterprise. Some plugins are free while others come available for a fee. These tools support the Multisite-based type of hosting. Some of these recommended plugins built on the Multisite platform are the following:

Domain Mapping

Domain Mapping suits clients who need exclusive domains. The developer can map the domain (for building a site) or guide users in the process (for those who want to create the site). The plugin’s premium version facilitates domain registration as well as payments direct from the website. This option helps you earn money. The free version does not contain this feature but still allows domain-mapping.

Pro Sites

Pro Sites makes running a network less difficult. Clients can change or build their own websites. This plugin sets various charging levels. It charges for tiered plans that integrate a variety of themes and plugins. At the same time, you can charge for individual options. You can define memory use or upload some files as premium incentives. Combine this with a free plan for basic features to come up with an impressive business model.

Ultimate Branding

Ultimate Branding helps users to transform their hosting into professional and efficient services. The plugin enables branding of login screens along with multiple aspects of admin screens. You may also add branding to certain features of the front end. It sets Multisite WordPress installation apart from other kinds of installation. The plugin makes customers feel that they are getting unique value for money spent.

Importance of Support Systems

Regardless of your choice, it becomes necessary to communicate effectively with users and clients. The Support System plugin provides an interface for receiving, managing, and responding promptly to support tickets. Users who have already logged in can raise tickets from the website’s admin area.

Otherwise, this is also possible in a page created from the network’s main site. You may use this plugin to add Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) to your website. These will answer common queries, so users no longer wait to raise tickets. The system comes in handy for clients who require answers as well as receiving content.

Performance and Strength

Plugins explained in the previous paragraphs are ideal for establishing a Multisite hosting solution. However, these tools also require support from plugins designed for performance and security.

  1. Snapshot Pro for backups
  2. Hummingbird for performance
  3. SmartCrawl for Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
  4. Defender for security

See to it the above-mentioned plugins are installed in your websites. Each plugin should perform well without the risks of downtime or security breaches. The Hub plugin puts all these tools together. It allows monitoring of networks from one location.

WordPress Multisite – A Perfect Solution for the Web Host

To recap, WordPress Multisite represents the seamless solution for reseller hosting. Multisite will guide you in making money from other hosting sites minus the hassles. Multisite offers a simplified approach in hosting management. The platform guarantees the following:

  1. Perform fast and efficiently
  2. Maximise profits
  3. Make life easier for customers
  4. Ensure loyalty among current clients
  5. Spread word of mouth about the business

Using the correct plugins, Multisite provides users with all elements of a robust and remarkable website.

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Guide to Restoring Backup Files, Email Accounts, DNS Zones, and Full Account in WHM Using JetBackup

Use the guides provided below to restore backups in WHM using JetBackup.

Data is lost in numerous ways. This includes human negligence, natural disasters, hardware flaws, cyber crooks, server failure, and upgrades. For many years, IT specialists have struggled to discover effective backup systems. The process involved too much time, finances, and know-how with many challenges. JetBackup was a breakthrough. The application contains effective tools consisting of the following:

  • Change data analog for backup
  • Encode replicated information
  • Store the copy in secure repository
  • Interpret or explain duplicatea during the renewal stage
  • Restore exact data image for the server

What is JetBackup?

This app is one of cPanel’s solutions. JetBackup enables users to reinforce their accounts efficiently and promptly using cPanel remote as well as other incremental platforms. It allows you to resell the service using a user-friendly billing system and Application Programming Interface (API) to clients through the interface. JetBackup has upsides over its traditional counterparts:

  • Backups by the hour – This is mandatory for dynamic websites with data that change frequently.
  • Jobs per Reseller Package – Users may impose extra fees for plans with enabled backup functionalities or offer added-value to hosting clients. This includes backups per each cPanel package.
  • Backup job assessment – You can project the backup job performance for maximum efficiency.
  • Incremental remote backups – The approach reduces backup space. Do this only once. Subsequent backups will only use up space from modified files.
  • Several destinations – JetBackup supports cPanel WebHost Manager auto backup to multiple selected destinations. These include the remote File Transfer Protocol (FTP), Amazon S3, Dropbox, remote Secure Socket Shell (SSH), and local backups. Amazon S3 offers storage using the web service interface.
  • Single file restore – You can restore everything with the Graphical User Interface (GUI) by simply touching a button. It includes WHM/cPanel Restore Database, files, emails, and Cron job.
  • Sell backup service – It is easy to create backup products for clients. You can link them to their current hosting accounts through the JetBackup Manager module (WHMCS business automation tool).

Feel free to limit the jobs depending on package or reseller. You may perform multiple tasks for different destinations. Or, backup to the remote destination and download files without difficulty from the local backup. It provides API access to the backup and restore as well as limit space or inodes data structure (Unix file systems) for users. Sell through the WebHost Manager Complete Solution.

How to Restore a File Backup for an Account in WHM

  • Log in to WHM.
  • Click the ‘JetBackup link’ below Plugins in the WHM.
  • Use the option called ‘List Accounts’ in looking for an account to restore from the backup.
  • Click the tab under Backups. You can view available backups for the preferred account.
  • It is possible to view the same options as cPanel under the JetBackup tab. These are the backups for Files and Databases, Email accounts, Domain Name System zones, and full accounts.
  • Click the File Backups icon to see the free file backups for that account. Backups remain for 30 days which gives users 30 restore points at any specified time.
  • Click the tab under ‘Options’ to restore the files’ backup copies from a chosen date. You may choose files or folders that you want restored. Look for the Public_HTML folder if you prefer to restore only the website content.
  • Click the Restored Selected Files in retrieving backup files.
  • Press Download Selected Files for downloading backup copies of chosen files.

How to Restore a Full Account Backup in WHM

  • Log in to WHM.
  • Click the ‘JetBackup’ link below Plugins in the WHM.
  • Use the option called ‘List Accounts’ in looking for an account to restore from the backup.
  • Click the tab under Backups. You can view available backups for the preferred account.
  • Click the Full Backups icon to see the free file backups for that account. Backups remain for 30 days which gives users 30 restore points at any specified time.
  • Click the tab under ‘Options’ to restore the files’ backup copies of the full account from a chosen date. You may choose files or folders that you want restored.

How to Restore a DNS Zone Backup in WHM

  • Log in to WHM.
  • Click the ‘JetBackup’ link below Plugins in the WHM.
  • Use the option called ‘List Accounts’ in looking for an account to restore from the backup.
  • Click the tab under Backups. You can view available backups for the preferred account.
  • Click the DNS Zones Backups icon to see the free file backups for that account. If there are few domains hosted under that account, there will be a DNS Zone backup copy for each one.
  • Click the tab under ‘Options’ to restore the backup copy of the DNS Zone from a chosen date. You may choose files or folders that you want restored.
  • From the “I” tab, it is possible to see the information regarding all records stored in the DNS zone files. Download the backup copy by clicking the cloud tab beneath ‘Options’.

How to Restore a Database Backup in WHM

  • Log in to WHM.
  • Click the ‘JetBackup’ link below Plugins in the WHM.
  • Use the option called ‘List Accounts’ in looking for an account to restore from the backup.
  • Click the ‘Database Backups’. You can view available backups for the preferred account.
  • Click the DNS Zones Backups icon to see the free file backups for that account. If there are few domains hosted under that account, there will be a DNS Zone backup copy for each one.
  • Click the tab under ‘Options’ to restore the backup copy of the database from a chosen date. You may choose files or folders that you want restored.
  • Click the cloud tab under ‘Options’. You can now download the database backup copy.

The cPanel Create and Restore Backups

It is important to understand the method of creating and restoring backups in the cPanel platform. By using this panel for hosting, you get a basic but robust tool to build and restore backup systems. Use the option – cPanel backup Wizard. Proceed to cPanel>>Files>>Backup Wizard. Use the Find icon in the home page of cPanel for easy searching.

Click the option – Backup Wizard. This command brings you to the Backup Wizard page with two options. These are backup and restore. The ‘Backup’ feature enables users to come up with partial or full backups. Download to the PC or transfer to a remote server using File Transfer Protocol. The ‘Restore’ feature facilitates retrieval of previous backups or those coming from other servers during migration.

The ‘Full Backup’ feature enables any user to download easily the backup of cPanel accounts which consist of the following:

  • Files
  • Databases
  • Email accounts
  • Security Sockets Layer (SSL) certificates
  • Configuration files

All these may be stored in a single archive. This feature also includes an option to download any created backup to the cPanel account’s home directory and remote server through FTP. The same principle applies to partial backups.

The cPanel Server Migration

Go through the following steps to perform server migration in a systematic manner. You can use the JetBackup for the cPanel backup. Users can opt for the disaster-healing organised tool in fundamental server migration. The user implements the “Scheduled DR Clone” procedure to make an image of the server successfully and copy it in another server.

Reasons for Choosing JetBackup

All cPanel account users have several reasons to select JetBackup. It is safe, consistent, and automated. The application has the capacity to provide a quick and effective solution in case things go wrong. There are various problems like flawed coding, unsuccessful upgrades or updates, hacking and data breaches, and corrupted data.

With JetBackup, the user does not need to rely on the hosting firm to restore data. It is a simple DIY process.

  • Full Account
  • File and Folder
  • Database Disaster Recovery
  • Backup for Multiple Destinations (Amazon, Dropbox, SSH, and BackBlaze. The latter refers to a data storage provider that offers the B2 Cloud storage like the Amazon S3.

JetBackup is a winner in terms of cost. Cloud solutions for storage and infrastructure are costly. Majority of web hosts offer the basic backups. However, users pay more for PRO versions to obtain full coverage. With JetBackup, the fee is a low of $3.95 per month.

The app is reliable because of the safety feature. It has a disaster recovery element that comes in handy during power outages or server breakdown. Its scalability ensures several backup jobs with different schedules for multiple destinations. It provides users independence as well as power in managing the backups based on their preferences.

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A Guide to Managing WHM Accounts in Reseller Hosting

Follow the guides provided below to effectively manage WHM Accounts in Reseller Hosting.

The reseller refers to a cPanel account with the capacity to produce other cPanel accounts. Users who sign up for dedicated or VPS hosting plans have access to reseller WHM. Resellers administer cPanel accounts with limited WebHost Manager interface. Resellers have access to WHM. However, they cannot use related features for security reasons.

Let us start with the basics.

WebHost Manager indicates the administrative portion or section of the cPanel software to manage all hosting service aspects. WHM enables the following:

  • Creation and management of hosting accounts
  • Adding and editing hosting packages and features
  • Manage the hosting server through a user-friendly and intuitive interface

Performing Simple WHM Reseller Admin Tasks

It is important to become familiar with access levels the cPanel and WHM servers offer in managing the reseller hosting account. The access levels to the control panel are the following:

  • WHM – Administrative or Root
  • The cPanel users
  • Reseller WHM – Reseller users can maintain cPanel accounts.
  • Features indicate plugins, tools, and utilities. Examples are the Domain Name System Editor and AWStats, an open-source reporting tool for web analytics.
  • Packages are resources like bandwidth limits and use of disk space allocated to cPanel accounts.

Add WHM after the domain name to access your WebHost Manager. The domain must point to the user’s account with the web host. You may access WHM by typing server name and adding WHM at the end. This is necessary if the domain does not point to your Cloud account. Acceptance of the certificate will redirect you to the page with the login form. Fill in your cPanel username and password.

Modify your Account

Find out the process of making changes or editing an existing WHM hosting account.

  • Click the ‘Modify an Account’ link.
  • Click the account you want to change.
  • Click Modify.

Note:

It is possible to tweak the cPanel theme, number of permitted email accounts, mailing lists, File Transfer Protocol accounts, and MySQL databases. You can also adjust the addon domains, parked domains, and subdomains.

  • Make the necessary changes.
  • Click Save after implementing modifications.

Changing your Account Password

The next is to learn how to change account passwords in WHM. Changes are needed for security reasons or if the user forgets the password. Users can replace their passwords from cPanel only by using the WHM password modification tool. This applies to forgotten codes or clients unable to log in to cPanel.

  • Click ‘Password Modification’ link.
  • Choose the account requiring change of password.

Note:

Keep in mind that account passwords must consist of six up to eight characters. It must start with a letter in lower case. For additional protection, use a combination of letters and numbers.

  • Click the ‘Change’ tab. You need to type the new password to access your cPanel account and connect to the same account through FTP.

Modifying an Account Quota

You must also learn how to vary the amount of allowable storage space. This refers to the quota for specific hosting accounts.

  • Click the link which indicates ‘Account Functions’.
  • Click Quota Modification.

Note: This page records all accounts included in the WHM. It also registers the aggregate amount of storage space that each account uses.

  • Replace the quota for your hosting account.
  • Click the Change icon.

Users now have access to the modified storage space. You can use said feature if clients want an upgrade or encounter issues such as low storage space.

Suspending or Unsuspending Accounts

Suspend WHM Hosting Account

  • Click the link that says ‘Account Functions’.
  • Click the ‘Manage Account Suspension’ link.

Note:

This refers to the page where users can suspend existing accounts or unsuspend accounts that have been held in the past.

  • Choose the domain you wish to suspend.
  • Provide the reason or reasons for suspension. This is for the account owner’s file or reference.
  • Click the Suspend icon.

Note:

The account is now suspended. Browsers will see the Suspended Account notification in your website rather than the home page. Likewise, it is possible to customise the Suspended Account page.

  • Click the link which states ‘List Suspended Accounts’.

Note:

You can list all accounts suspended in WebHost Manager on this page. You can view all suspended accounts as well as the corresponding reasons. Termination of accounts also take place in this page.

Unsuspend WHM Hosting Account

Find the domain you wish to unsuspend. Click the Unsuspend button.

Consequences:

Suspension means the system stops all processes or functions associated with that account. Other effects include:

  • It logs users out of the current session.
  • The system stops users’ Cron jobs or scheduled tasks.
  • Mailing lists will no longer function.
  • Web disk (WebDAV) will stop functioning. This refers to the drag and drop cPanel interface that allows the user’s access to website files.
  • Accounts’ email users cannot download email messages.

Managing Reseller Accounts

If you prefer to manage any reseller account, use any of the following WebHost Manager interfaces:

  • The Reseller Section (WHM >> Home  >> Resellers) provides access to all reseller features.
  • The Reseller Center interface (WHM >> Home  >> Resellers >> Reseller Center) allows you to add or remove reseller privileges. It also provides links to all reseller features.

Current Privileges for Reseller Accounts

The system provides limited privileges (by default) to multiple reseller accounts. In adding privileges to reseller accounts, use the following interface: “Edit Reseller Nameservers and Privileges”.

(WHM >> Home >> Resellers >> Edit Reseller Nameservers and Privileges)

These are the following categories where resellers can access their privileges.

Category          Description

Standard          The list contains essential reseller functions. Resellers can add and take away any account.

Privilege          The list contains the reseller’s capacity to create and change individual web hosting packages.

Global              The list covers privileges for server administrators. Examples include the Restart System Services and Access to View.

Super Privileges are not recommended for resellers.

The list consists of options like account and quota modification. These are the alternatives allowing resellers to create accounts minus the packages and avoid resource limits.

  • Modification of Accounts
  • Modification of Bandwidth Limits
  • Modification of Quotas

Root Access

Refrain from enabling the All Features Option under the Root Access for resellers. This selection supersedes the creation limits of resellers’ accounts.

Consider this example: Resellers are limited to two accounts. In this case, enable All Features you can find under Root Access. The WHM will permit resellers to create the maximum number of accounts and not only two for as long as they want. Said option also allows resellers to see their accounts including unwanted ones on the server. The All Seller platform lets resellers access the fully-functional interface of WHM.

Create more user accounts in WebHost Manager that do not correspond to the cPanel account. For business owners or managers, it is an effective way of allowing employees to perform the following:

  • Study or check bandwidth reports
  • Resetting of passwords
  • Configuration of mail boxes
  • Suspend as well as unsuspend accounts
  • Manage Domain Name System entries

Create WebHost Manager Without Associated Domain

These are the following steps to facilitate creation of a WebHost Manager account without an associated domain:

  • Log in to your account as the Root User on the server through the Secure Socket Shell or SSH.
  • Use this command in creating a new user: Adduser – username
  • Use this command in setting a password for the new user: passwd – username

The /var/cpanel/resellers file distinguishes users who are resellers as well as permissions these reseller users hold. To create an entry in the resellers file granting user full permissions and register the user in the WHM interface, run the following command:

echo "username:all" >> /var/cpanel/resellers

Note:

The user’s username: all entry provides root-level permissions to users. If you enable  root – level access to a reseller, he or she gets the same privileges as the web server’s administrator.

Here are the steps:

  • Create the user file in this directory: /var/cpanel/users.

To accomplish this, run the following command: cp/var/cpanel/users/system/var/cpanel/users/username

  • Open the /var/cpanel/users/username file using the text editor. Remove this line: DNS =
  • Log in as Root User to the WHM.
  • Proceed to the interface of WHM Edit Reseller Nameservers and Privileges.
  • Pick out username from the menu.
  • Click Submit.
  • Choose the check boxes that correspond to the preferred user permission. Click Save.

Final Reminder

It is vital to understand carefully the process of administering WebHost Manager accounts in Reseller Hosting. This approach helps you avoid any short and long-term issues that can adversely affect your operations.

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How to Set up Packages in Web Host Manager to Use WHMCS

WHMCS is an essential tool for online business that enables seamless client management and automation.

How does one organize WHM packages for the Web Hosting Manager Complete Solution (WHMCS)? Resellers must integrate this all-in-one online support platform in ensuring products have the right resources and controls for cPanel packages.

Create the Package

  • Log in to the WHM server as root user. It must be the server linked to the WHMCS where you plan to sell the shared hosting package.
  • Proceed in adding the package.
  • Choose the package name to identify within the automation system.
  • Create the resource limitations.

Disk Quota (MB) refers to the limit the system administrator sets. The disk quota allocates the limited space equitably.

Monthly Bandwidth measures maximum data (normally in seconds) transferred within a given period.

Max File Transfer Protocol and Email accounts

Max Email lists

Max databases and sub-domains

Max parked and addon domains

Maximum hourly email according to domain relayed

Maximum percentage of delayed or failed messages domains may send for every hour.

You can specify the preferred package to obtain a dedicated IP, Shell Access (SSH), cPanel access (CGI), or Digest Authentication. It is possible to leave the Settings as default and make changes here.

WHMCS

You must create products in the WHMCS after coming up with the WebHost Manager package. Connect the two for reselling cPanel accounts with automated delivery.

  • Log in as admin user to WHMCS.
  • Go to setup>products/services>products/services.

Choose the Product Group Name like Shared Hosting.

Choose the Product Group Headline (Customer facing which must be specific to the group of products).

Fix the Product Group Tagline.

Identify the available Payment Gateways.

Choose the Order Form Template if you do not want system default.

You can hide the product group.

Save your changes. 

Creating a New Product

  • Look for the product type such as “Hosting Account.” This is allotted for the package’s shared product.
  • Choose the new Product Group.
  • Set the Product Name. Press Continue. Remember the product name does not have to be the same as the package name. However, it makes monitoring easier in the long-term.

Details Tab

Input the product description for customers to see. List the product features. For example, it could be a shared hosting package with 5 GB disk space and 100 GB bandwidth.

  • Welcome email provides a drop-down of previous email templates.
  • Require the domain means clients must own a domain for the package. Offer new customers domain registration. The box ensures they input a qualified domain name before proceeding.
  • Set stock control only if you prefer to sell a certain number of said product.
  • Choose this box if any taxes apply.
  • Featured means it shows products conspicuously according to the order.
  • Find out the benefits of hidden products or groups.
  • Retried indicates the editing of old products.
  • Pricing tabs
  • Payment type refers to any of the three: Free product trial or testing, one-time billing, or recurring billing.
  • Allowing multiple quantities enables clients to order more than one of any packages.
  • Recurring cycles limit denotes zero is unlimited. It is the case for most hosting packages. Replace if you plan to reduce the number of cycles to keep the product.
  • Auto termination of fixed term refers to zero being disabled. It may be utilised to automatically terminate an account after a specific period. However, avoid this step if possible because it can delete or destroy data of users. It seems practical to impose a permanent limit. Get in touch with the client before termination to save clients.
  • Termination of emails needs configuration if you decide to use previous options.

The following three options concern billing date changes:

  • Prorated billing for universal billing dates
  • Prorated date refers to the day of the month for product billings
  • Charge next month implies the cutoff dates for inclusion in the original invoice.

Module Settings

When you refer to module settings, presume the server already exists and functions if you cannot view the documentation in connecting your initial server.

  • Module Name: Choose the cPanel from the drop-down menu.
  • Server Group: Select the specific group for this product.
  • WHM Package Name: Pick the correct package name that matches the product.

Custom Fields

The custom field permits users to gather additional information from your customers. This includes probable interest in newsletters or how the client came to know about the provider. It is possible to include more custom fields (internal or public). Certain modules as well as addons require setting up of custom fields.

These must be set up for successful operation. Configurable options remain blank unless you generate the option. One example is the Liquid Web Plugin. It can implement configurations based on whatever is available through the Application Programming Interface (API).

Various Upgrades

For upgrade of packages, the box shows other products within the Web Hosting Manager Complete Solution. You may choose the client where you can upgrade from and what is the desired enhancement. For example, you want to upgrade from a plan with 5 GB disk space to 10 GB. You can choose the configurable option and set up the list of products. In the upgrade email, set an email in the Email Templates and indicate the recipients.

Free Domains

Indicate if you prefer a free domain for registration or one-time transfer. Another option is it remains free provided they keep the product. Free domain payment terms are applicable if you want to offer free registration of domains for corresponding terms. The Custom Affiliate payout includes the following:

  • Default setup in the system
  • Payment of percentage of referral
  • Fixed amount earned for each product
  • No commission means user tracks referrals but do not receive commissions
  • Enter the amount paid to affiliate for product referral
  • Allow use of specific subdomains
  • Associated download files are made available to clients owning specific products

Reseller Packages

For the cPanel Reseller Module Settings, here are the following steps:

  • Fix settings for hosting accounts of resellers. The Product Type setting is the Reseller Account.
  • The fields from “Limit Reseller by Number” identify reseller settings so you can set resellers’ limits according to number or disk space.
  • Reseller Access Control List (ACL) defines features in the WebHost Manager resellers can use. To prepare this list, proceed to Reseller Center. Activate the domain as reseller. Go to Edit Reseller Privileges and Nameservers page. Type a name before saving the features’ selections.
  • Limit Reseller by Number denotes the maximum number of cPanel accounts the reseller can create.
  • Limit Reseller by Usage means you can reduce the disk space and bandwidth resellers can assign to their clients.
  • Reseller Disk Space is the disk space resellers share with their accounts.
  • Reseller Bandwidth is the bandwidth resellers share with their accounts.
  • Allow DS Overselling permits resellers to assign more disk space to accounts than what they own.
  • Configure Nameservers refer to the option to provide resellers their own nameservers based on domain names instead of using your nameservers.
  • Reseller Ownership does not require setting up of a package. However, you must define certain limitations for client accounts. This could be1MB of disk as well as bandwidth, so the client can change the account to a preferred package.

Other Essential Concerns

You can also add a prefix to the package. Add the username_ prefix to the package name once the account has been created on the server. This is useful with multiple servers, the same package name, but a different username.

The login to cPanel link in the client area is based on the server hostname if this is available. Otherwise, the IP address will be used. The usage of http and https login links depend on the status of the “Secure” checkbox in the server configuration.

WHMCS connects users and administrators. This facilitates fast and easy access to the control panels of all servers configured in your WHMCS installation. It supports the Single Sign-On allowing administration, as well as implements changes without re-authentication.

With the API Tokens for cPanel/WHM, it is possible to limit any actions of an API Token. In using the Configurable Package Addon, the “edit-account” permission must be enabled. For reseller products, the “Everything” permission must be enabled as the reseller API functions on a cPanel server need root access to function efficiently.

In terminating a cPanel/WHM account through the admin area, users are provided with an option labelled “Keep DNS Zone”. Choosing this option will terminate the account on the cPanel and WebHost Manager while maintaining the DNS Zone Record. You cannot recreate the account on the server when a DNS Zone already exists. It will just lead to an error. You must delete the DNS Zone to successfully create a new account.