When we are going to host a web page we must bear in mind that there are different types of servers. Each of them can be interesting for a certain use. All sites do not need the same conditions, so we must choose which one we opt for. In this article we are going to talk about what a shared server is and what are the first basic steps that we must take to start using it for our website.
What is a shared server
As we have indicated, we have at our disposal different options to host a web page . We can opt for a dedicated, shared or VPS server. Depending on the number of visits that we are going to receive, as well as the content that we are going to host, we can choose a specific option.
A shared server is a cheaper option compared to a dedicated one. It basically means that we are going to share resources with other users. For example we are going to share the CPU of that server with other websites, the memory, the available bandwidth, the IP …
However, although we share many of the resources of that server, the storage capacity is normally fixed. That is, we will have a size available to us, to be able to manage the content that we want to upload.
Among the advantages we can mention that it is easier to configure and use. The normal thing is that there is a control panel from which we will be able to install the content manager, create emails, configure DNS and any necessary task for that site.
Get started with a shared server
We are going to explain what the first steps would be once we have hired a shared server. We will name some basic and general aspects that in most cases we must do so that everything works correctly and be able to customize it.
Install the content manager
One of the most important points is to install and configure the content manager . One of the most popular today is WordPress. Generally, the hosting that we have hired will allow us to install it easily.
This would therefore be the first step to continue with everything else. Whatever content manager we install, it is necessary to have it to start configuring our site properly.
Install required plugins
As we know, content managers like WordPress have a large number of plugins available. Many of them can significantly improve the browsing experience for users, but they also serve to better manage it and even optimize performance.
However, our advice is not to abuse the plugins for our site. It is best to install only those that will really improve usability and can benefit our site for search engines and visitors.
Update all content
Of course, once we have installed add-ons and have the content manager ready, it is essential to update them with the latest versions . In this way, we will not only improve performance and obtain significant improvements, but we will also correct possible security flaws that may exist and that could be exploited by hackers to put our website at risk.
Create users and use strong passwords
Another essential step is to create users , beyond the administrator himself. In this way we can create content through different user names and manage all the information on our website.
But also, something that can not be missing is the fact of using passwords that are complex. A key must have letters (uppercase and lowercase), numbers, and other special symbols. It has to be random and it is also advisable to change it from time to time to take extreme precautions.
Check that DNS is pointing correctly
We will also have to verify that the DNS records are pointing correctly to the web domain. This is essential so that visitors can enter a site without problems and that they can receive the information hosted on the hosting.
We can verify this point from the control panel of the shared server. One of the most common is cPanel. There we can see everything related to our web domain and check that it is configured correctly on the server.
In short, these are some initial steps that we can take on a shared server so that our website is available and works properly.