WordPress is one of the most popular platforms for those who are creating blogs, websites, and even online stores. It is a powerful platform that is full of options and features to allow people to develop high quality sites. The system is relatively simple to use, and they have a number of support options, not to mention plenty of information on the web, to help with any issues that might crop up. A number of individuals and companies have taken to hosting WordPress in the cloud because of the advantages that it can offer. After all, it seems as though everyone is heading to the cloud today. However, it is important to look at the advantages as well as the disadvantages of WordPress cloud hosting.
Cloud Computing Is Growing
The private cloud is becoming extremely important, and most feel that the trend will continue to grow over the course of the coming years. Naturally, turning to the cloud for hosting websites is something that a large number of people are doing because of the benefits that it can offer. This is true for companies of all sizes. Because of the growth of the cloud, it is time that you considered whether you want to use it for your WordPress site or sites. You’ll find that these advantages and disadvantages carry across to more than just WordPress, so it is important to always keep them in mind when considering the cloud.
Why WordPress?
What is it that makes WordPress such a popular choice? It is a number of things actually. It is a well-known brand in the field of blogs and websites, and people know that they can trust the platform. It is also intuitive, so those who have very little experience will still be able to get up and running. Additionally, it offers a number of in depth options and features so that those who do happen to have more experience will be able to create the exact type of site they want. When coupled with cloud hosting, the platform has plenty to offer.
Benefits of Cloud Hosting
One of the biggest benefits is naturally the cost. Consider just how much it costs for a physical server. This is beyond the scope of many people, and even some companies. Cloud hosting is cost effective because it has the potential to reduce the amount of money that the company needs to spend on resources. You do not need to have an onsite server, and you don’t have to choose a dedicated server. This also means you do not need to have a dedicated IT team on your site simply to handle server issues. All companies like the idea of saving money, so it is easy to see why it is so attractive to them.
Another one of the great things about WordPress cloud hosting is the fact that it is easy to scale. You can set it up so you will only have to pay for the resources that you are using. If your company is growing quickly, scaling up is nice and simple. Additionally, you will find that the upgrades are generally very easy, and you can do most of them with a couple of simple clicks. Of course, those who have more complex sites may need to have some help ensuring that things are running right.
One of the big dangers of any type of computing is fear of data loss. When you have WordPress in the cloud though, you will find that restoration and creating backups of your data is very simple. It is much easier than doing it on a physical server. Additionally, the companies that offer cloud hosting have the means necessary to recover data in the rare event that something happens to it.
Drawbacks of Cloud Hosting
Even though it has a lot of potential, you have to remember that there are some cons as well. When you are working in the cloud, you are dependent on a connection to the Internet in order to access your information. If you don’t have access, it could cause issues with your work, and this is where a physical onsite server could be a better option. However, one of the things that you will rarely have to worry about is the actual cloud service going down. Most of the companies offering cloud hosting for WordPress today have exceptional uptime of over 99%. Still, it is something to consider, as even the best cloud hosting providers can run into a bit of trouble from time to time
When you move your business to the cloud, you also need to consider that it is not as private and safe as you might hope. The cloud is always under the threat of attack, and there is the potential for a security risk to develop. When you are moving your WordPress site into the cloud, you are essentially giving a third party company – the hosting provider – access to the information. Again, the quality companies that are offering cloud service take great pains to reduce the threats to security. Always make sure that you choose a quality provider.
What Is Right for You?
Now that you’ve had a chance to see the pros and cons with WordPress cloud hosting, you will be better informed when it comes to making this decision. Are you someone who wants to embrace the cloud and move your site, or do you prefer the idea of having a physical server? No matter which you choose, it is important to remember that the cloud is evolving, and even though it does have some disadvantages, it is the way that most companies today are going. In a few years, there won’t be much of a question as to whether you should host your WordPress site in the cloud or not – it will be where everyone has their site.
Just like everything else, there are plenty of pros and cons when it comes to hosting WordPress in the cloud. Take the time to consider the good and the bad and then find the best hosting company for your needs.
How to Choose Your WordPress Cloud Hosting Provider
The important thing to remember when you are choosing your provider is that you should try to find a company that will be able to reduce the disadvantages that we mentioned earlier. This means you need a company that is able to guarantee a high amount of uptime for your site. It also means you need to consider the level of security that the company can offer. Make sure you research the company and look for reviews that mention both the positive and the negative things about them. Keep in mind that the price is not everything when it comes to choosing a cloud host. You want a company that can offer a great reputation and that is able to deliver the high quality service that your site needs and that you deserve.