Last Updated: December 8th, 2022
Cloud hosting refers to running a remote operation on a hired data center infrastructure in layman’s terms. This is made possible by renting a web server in the desired fractions such as 1GB RAM or 30 GB RAM or even terabytes. It also refers to a virtual pool of resources that can be accessed on demand. This sort of arrangement or cloud hosting is catching up because of the benefits. For instance, even when the server is down, the website will still be up and running. Also, the payment for cloud hosting is only for the features used. So, cloud hosting is ideal for small startup companies with limited resources and those requiring specialized services.
Different types of Cloud Services:
- Software as a Service (SaaS): Herein, the user can get on-demand access to the software of a third-party server. Most of the software used in digital marketing is as per the SaaS model.
- Platform as a Service (PaaS): Under this, the user gets on-demand access to a hosting environment that runs specific types of applications. Some amount of control is available under this feature.
- Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS): Here, the user gets on-demand access to ‘naked services,’ as it is called. Here, you can decide what OS to install and what software to run. It is somewhat like the PaaS, but you get to be in charge of updating and securing the server.
In addition, there are other cloud hosting services such as RaaS (Recovery as a Service) and FaaS (Functions as a Service).
Best Managed Cloud Hosting Services Are
1. Microsoft Azure
Today, Microsoft Azure is at the top of the list. Launched in 2010 as Windows Azure, it was renamed in 2014. It offers software such as IIS, MS SQL, Exchange Server, etc. This is because it is the best performance-driven and easy-to-use cloud hosting service. Being compatible with all versions of Windows and Linux, it meets the needs of most corporations. In addition, it supports various languages such as Java, PHP, and NET.
Most Windows server applications can be set up within an hour. That shows how good and easy the Microsoft Azure application is. It is easy to set up and maintain the cloud hosting platform and is ideal for small businesses. It is a comprehensive platform offering almost everything from AI, IoT, security, database, Analytics, etc.
A special mention is that Microsoft Azure is available in Mainland China, making it ideal for those with business interests over there. For startups, it offers a BizSpark Program wherein their free Azure service can be availed.
2. AWS (Amazon Web Service)
When it comes to the best cloud hosting platform in the IaaS category, AWS is reliable to host your applications. Launched in 2006, AWS operates in about 20 geographical regions and offers various products to meet every business requirement. Networks like firewalls, DNS, and Load balancing applications can be hosted easily.
It also permits you to have your virtual private cloud. The fee services are also very structured. It offers a free tier for some of its services to experience the platform.
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3. Office Time
As the name suggests, Office Time is best suited for many paperwork-related issues and productivity concerns which need to be kept track of. Time spent on projects is tracked, and the cost is calculated. The option to generate an invoice is also provided. There are various customizable features with no extra charges for subscriptions. Office Time is referred to as a small business’s best friend.
4. Adobe Formscentral
This platform helps create forms in customers who visit the website can fill up. This app also helps to analyze the data using various Business Intelligence tools. The best part is that the free version of this program is available with limited usage. So better to check it out first using the free version. There is also the monthly/yearly subscription feature. This platform gives you the freedom to create customizable forms as per your requirements.
5. DigitalOcean
Another popular and best cloud hosting provider, especially among developers, is DigitalOcean. It provides world-class services with reasonable pricing. The VM is provided for as low as $5 per month. Coming to its services, it offers managed Kubernetes, databases, load balancers, object storage, etc. Currently, it is available in 12 data centers and offers two months of infrastructure credits through its Hatch program.
6. Adobe Connect
This platform goes a step further by providing video conferencing features. This, in turn, helps to organize interactive team meetings and training sessions with others. The price too is reasonable as they charge by the number of hosts and participants that use the service. In addition, there is a screen-sharing feature, and no restriction on the use of webcams and video feeds. All this with the customizable features, thereby giving the host the freedom to decide about the participants.
7. Google Drive
The name itself is enough to guarantee its useful features. The Google Drive platform works closely with Google Docs. So, this enables the user to create sheets and slides, and edit and store documents. It also enables syncing between devices. For example, you can start where you left off from the office and continue to work from home. Simultaneously it will be reflected in the office system to continue the next day working from it. Thereby making it convenient to switch between different devices and continue the work. This platform also allows converting different file types to Google’s format and editing, uploading, and creating documents.
8. Kamatera
Another best web hosting service that needs a mention is the Kamatera with about 20 years of experience. It has 14 data centers spread across four continents, offering various cloud services such as firewalls, servers, storage, and load balancers. The user-friendly platform has 40 popular apps and services deployment such as WordPress, Docker, NFS, OpenVPN, MongoDB, and pfSense. It provides value-added and tailor-made services, fantastic scalability, and flexibility. 24/7 support services offered are the best part.
Listed above are just some of the best-managed cloud hosting platforms available today. None of the above platforms are perfect but are trusted by many web applications. So, try them out per your business requirements, budgets, etc. Cloud server hosting is growing by leaps and bounds, and the technology is improving as the day goes by. Some cloud hosting providers offer a simple static website, whereas others offer various products and complex machine learning applications. So decide accordingly and choose the best.