[ale] Linux or Unix Hosting Recommendations

[Mike Millson]

First, let me say that I enjoyed my first meeting last night.

The short version of this e-mail is that I have 7 Web sites that I'm looking
to consolidate onto a single server. Of course, it has to be Linux, Unix, or
some variant. I need Java servlet support, and either MySQL or similar
database. I also have a client that will be using Miva Merchant, so that is
somewhat important, but I suppose an equally functional shopping cart
application would do.

I was very happy with HostPro, but they got purchased by Interland, and the
hosting plans I was using are no longer available. Basically, you can no
longer run servlets unless you pay $135/month for shared hosting that allows
Java, or $350/month for a virtual private server that gives you 7 IP
addresses. That's $50 per IP - too much $ for me to spend because not all my
sites use Java. HostPro plans gave you servlet access for less than that.

I'm a little wary of Interland. I work on some other sites that use
Interland hosting and there seems to be some network latency issues. My
Interland don't seem to be as fast as my HostPro sites, but maybe that's my
imagination.

I also have 1 site still being hosted on a company called VIA.NET.WORKS.
They purchased Interactive Multimedia Corporation, the original company with
whom I set up the hosting. They are on NT servers because 3 years ago I was
ignorant. After enduring constant complaints from my customers about their
sites being down or their e-mail not working, I switched to Unix and Linux
and literally have not heard one complaint.

Anyway, VIA is getting into Linux hosting, which I commend, but I wonder if
they have the experience to support it. They are starting to offer Virtual
Dedicated Server hosting. For $200 you get 5 IP addresses and total control
over what you install on each server. It's on RH6.2, and you have the
ability to install a laundry list of applications including MySQL,
PostreSQL, Miva Merchant, etc.

I tried Verio once and had a bad experience, so I'm not a Verio fan.

I don't think I'm at the point where I can justify/afford/support buying
rackspace from Uunet, Qwest, BellSouth, etc. and trying to run my own
equipment. They offer managed services, but I think the price points are too
high.

Anyone have any hosting companies they would recommend? Anyone have a
dedicated server that they want to split expenses? I would really like to
keep outsourcing my hosting. I just need to find a company with the features
I want at the price that I'm willing to pay and the servers not so
overloaded that the sites are slow. It would be nice to have remote access
and be able to set up/administer accounts w/o having to go through technical
support.

Any thoughts?

I see the ale.org site is hosted by comtrends.net. Is this a member's
company?

Thank you,
Mike Millson
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AableTech Solutions, Inc.
770.414.8834
770.414.8206 fax
http://www.atsga.com
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