Re: Linux vs. Windows hosting?
 

Yeah and that plan is $15! MySQL databases should be standard now, ever hosting package should have them.

Re: Linux vs. Windows hosting?
 

I've considered 1and1 for dedicated hosting plans in the future. The guy that taught me most of what I know about web development used 1and1 for a long time and was very satisfied. I'm not sure if that's what he still uses or not, but they're really a great host.

Re: Linux vs. Windows hosting?
 

We use Globat its been pretty good for us...But i think its a bit $$

Re: Linux vs. Windows hosting?
 

Do consider deploying your own server too. Though it may be the most costly, the experience is very good as you also learn about online server security issues, managing resources such as disk space, memory, bandwidth and user accounts. Not to mention you can run other stuff you've ever dreamt off like media streaming servers (FRC video streams?), game servers, and have total control over your databases and such :yikes:

Re: Linux vs. Windows hosting?
 

That's a LOT more expensive. We got lucky at one point and we had computers donated to function as servers. The problem we ran into there was that we had them set up in the school, but their network was very restricted to access. We couldn't view the site from in the school (MAJOR problem) and they wouldn't allow us access to the computers to install PHP or MySQL or anything more than a basic webserver setup.

If you're able to afford the server AND have access to actually do work on it, it's worth it, but we have since decided to turn the servers into power computers for A/V editing and effectively remove them from the district network restrictions.

Re: Linux vs. Windows hosting?
 

Just be careful about where you host from. Many ISPs have rules about webservers, or even block port 80 (http). If you're using the school's connection, this is most likely a non-issue, but just make sure you check with your school's IT Dept or your ISP before setting up a server.

Re: Linux vs. Windows hosting?
 

haha yes if you're running it off a residential internet connection, likely port 80 will be blocked.
But if youre having a static business connection or having your server located at a datacentre, you are provided an unrestricted connection and usually bandwidth which goes in megabits, a guranteed continuous source of power and some remote management resources (I have remote power control for mine).

If your school has its own website, perhaps they may allow to dedicate you some space, a subdomain or allow you to have your own domain name. That'll depend on your school so you may want to talk to them on that.