Now that you've decided to join the world of internet marketing, choosing the right web host to put your site online will be one of the first things you need to consider. Where do you start?

Good news. It may be easier than you suspect to determine your requirements and find the best fit from amongst all the hosting companies available to you. Just by following this simple 5 step process it will enable you to narrow down the field and identify your needs very quickly.

1. Dedicated or Shared Server? The volume of business you plan to do right at your site will determine if you need a dedicated or shared server. If your site is intended for a heavy volume of purchases such as a 'shopping mall' then you'll also need a shopping cart at the site. This type of business would probably need a dedicated server. However, if you're using your site to redirect traffic or to dispense information your needs should do well with a shared server.

2. Customer Service  You definitely will want access to customer service at all times in the event that the site has gone down. Your site will only produce for you when it's online therefore it's of utmost importance that if and when such an occurrence does arise that you're able to notify and work with your server ASAP. A quick test of this would be upon visiting the web host site see if they display any type of support page or contact number. If not then just scratch them off your list and move on. If so, do they return calls or emails? Here again if they don't reply or the time frame within which they do is unacceptable continue to look for a company that better measures up in these areas.

3. Guarantee  Do these companies offer any type of money back guarantee on their hosting plans? If not, there's probably a reason and I'm willing to bet it's not a good one. If somebody is not willing to stand behind their product then why should we as customers be expected to pay for it? Remember in this case, you lose your server, you lose your site, and you lose your business! End of story.

4. System Maintenance  Does the company in question have a maintenance schedule that includes excessive downtime? Again you need to remember once your site is offline your business is shut down. Are you comfortable with the 'projected' downtimes? 5. Ability to Switch Between Plans  Are you able to easily change hosting plans with-in the company you're looking at without a hassle or at all? Most all reputable hosting companies allow this. Now that you've determined what it is you need to consider in choosing the right web host for your online pursuits, it's time make your choice and get online. I'll see you on the internet!

To your many successes!

TJ Philpott is an author and Internet entrepreneur based out of North Carolina. For additional success tips and a free guide that demonstrates how to find both profitable markets and products visit: http://blogbrawn.com