Tips Guides Resources

Here some points dealt with to help you identify the ways of becoming a successful web host reseller. You need to consider these tips when dealing with both the web hosts and with clients.

Choose an appropriate program

Linux has more of open source software programs compared to Windows. Thus choosing Linux will work out cheaper. Though it is common for most of the programs like flash, PHP and PERL to run on both Windows and Linux, there are a few which will run only on one of them. Windows is mandatory for a site that uses MS Access or ASP.

The correct choice of control panels

Control panels are varied from the simple ones to advanced and complex ones. As a web host reseller you would need a control panel to handle the hosting accounts. While making a selection of the hosting automation software there are numerous control panels with superior features.

Choose the correct host

When you decide to resell web hosting services make sure that you choose your host with diligence. The factors that need to be taken into account are the control panel and the operating system, the online reviews of the customers, the server uptime determination, the time span between help sought for and the help actually provided especially during emergencies.

The experience of the web host is a must as most of the web hosting companies do not last for long. You should ensure whether the web hosting company can provide you with plans that can come of use during highly demanding situations and the flexibility of their policies in tense conditions. You should also check the price that you are being quoted.

Make your own business plans

You need to identify the amount of space and bandwidth that you are ready to resell keeping in mind that there could be changes according to the packages that you provide your customers with. You need to be aware of the ongoing market price so that you maintain the correct pricing. Keep in mind the added privileges provided by the web hosting company and fix your rates accordingly.

Set up a business site

You can either make a site with an open pattern or hire a site developer or develop the site using your own skills. The information provided in your site should be authentic and relevant to the needs of the customers.

Build an e-commerce site

You should have the facility of online payment for customers for which you would need a trade account, an SSL permit and an access to expense.

Set up a helpdesk

Your customers should not suffer due to any negligence on your part. Set up a customer helpdesk to respond to the queries.

Systematic billing procedure

With the help of the automated billing systems you can easily register billing as well as make payments to your customers. Various billing software licenses are available on annual or monthly basis. While choosing your billing software you must check for its compatibility with the server.

Promotion of your website

You must ensure that your website is duly enlisted with all the search engines and also propagate it through friends, family, peers and colleagues. Your signature in the mails should contain a link to your website and also use newsletters, incoming links and unique offers as a way of promotion.

Welcome email

You must send a welcome email to all your customers once they set up their accounts. The welcome emails should contain the name server names, a user name, a temporary password, a forward link to the control panel as well as to the helpdesk and the confirmed plan details

Rodrigo Rehn is a Relationships Expert, Linux Systems Administrator, Web Programmer, PHP Developer and CEO of Host brazilian web internet solutions.