PDA

View Full Version : A simple (or not so simple) guide to requesting free webhosting



Trel
August 16th, 2003, 16:08
The following is an unoffical guide to how to request free hosting here on FreeWebspace.net

It is not required to request, however it is a very good idea.
Please take this under advisement and have a nice day. :)

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

For all of you that havn't got a clue about webhosting, what you might need in terms of space/bandwidth/features for your site, or just generally whats possible and whats not possible.. this is for you.

1) Before you post, think about what you need for your site.

Do you need a host that accepts domains? (i.e. have your own .com you want to have hosted.)

How much space/bandwidth do you think you will need?
If you don't know for sure, you can estimate it fairly easily, take a look at this..

50 MB of space will suit most anyone well. If you have .jpg pictures at 20 KB a piece you can put up 2500 pictures before you run out of space. Thats a good bit. :D

As for bandwidth thats pretty easy too. Heres what I suggest..

Take your main page and build it to how you like it, then take every picture that will load with it and the page itself, right click on those and look in properties. Thats the size that we'll use in this calculation.

((Yoursize (in KB) X visits) x 30) / 1000 = Bandwidth in MB

Lets do an example.

Say your site will recieve 200 visits a day and the main page's size is 100 KB.

((100 x 200) x 30) / 1000 = 600 MB of bandwidth

This is just an estimate and could give you a good idea what to request. Also you need to repeat this process with every page that you plan on putting up, so you can get a more complete idea of the bandwidth you'll require.

Next, features.. What kind of fancy features are you going to want to use for your site? A forum, a content management system like Xoops or PHPNuke.. maybe, an Ikonboard?

Go look for the scripts you want to use ahead of time and see what they require. Thats all you will need from your host. The general rule is, the more features a host provides.. the more likely they are to be abused and close down.

**Important**: If you don't have a clue what it is, don't request it.

2) Now that you know what you need for your site, lets move on to a more likely to be responded to request.

Now here on Freewebspace.net I know all requests are responded to but, usually with just links to the normal free hosts you can find via Google or other search engines.

If you want to get a response from a host personally, try these steps!

A) Give a greeting, tell alittle about yourself maybe.

B) Give your site's URL and what you intend to put there. If its not up on the internet yet, give a very detailed description of it.

C) Tell what language it will be written in and where you are from.(this is very important because not many hosts will accept websites written in Chinese, Korean etc.. also don't lie, hosts do have ways of knowing where you are from ;) )

D) Describe what you need within reason, there is no such thing as unlimited bandwidth/space.
If a host is offering it, they are lying to you. Visit: http://www.unlimband.com/ for more information.
A normal free offering could stretch upwards of 300 MB of space and 6 GB of bandwidth but, don't count on getting it. Those kind of accounts are hard to get.

E) Check back in your thread often to see if hosts have responded, and respond back answering their questions.. if any. That will show you care and give them an idea of if they can host you or not.

F) Read the Terms of Service/Use and/or Acceptable Use Policy of your potential host. If they prohibit what you need to do, find another host. This will save you and your host alot of time and trouble.

H) Special note for all people wishing to place illegal content/store files/hotlink pictures/send spam. You will be caught, so don't waste your time.

H) Final note, not having advertisements is a great thing. However, if a host has no ads on their users' pages they are making no money off of your site. They won't be around a very long time like this :confused2 . I know there are exceptions to this rule, that includes us at Lifelesspeople.com. I just want to make sure users understand that ads = long life for a host generally.

3) A shorter guide to how to request free webpace: (by Riverworld)

I) Keep specifics (space, transfer, etc) at the top of the post in an easy-to-read manner (try listing them).

II) After you have a quick summary, go into detail about your site or what you plan to have hosted. Don't be concerned about writing too much at this stage- but on the same token, don't ramble on about nothing.

III) Give some details on how to contact you... a host may want to talk to you before offering anything. So make sure you have filled out your profile completely.

IV) Don't go overboard in what you need. If you know 15mb is enough- don't request 50mb. If you aren't going to get more than 300mb transfer/month - don't ask for 1gb.

V) If you are concerned about your site growing... say "I only need 15mb space now, but will need about 50mb space in 6 months time" - just to give the host an idea of these things, and how much you may grow.

VI) Don't be greedy and ask for too much, because you will be the only one to lose out in the end.


4) Build an interesting page and make your host proud to have you! Also, always **always** provide a link back. Even if your host doesn't force it. It just shows your proud to be there.

I hope this guide serves some people well and helps to make the requests around here a bit more then..



HELP I NEED A FREE HOST PLZ (inside it..)

I NEED 1 GB OF SPACE AND 100 GB OF BANDWIDTH FOR MY WAREZ PLZ K THX!!!!!!!!


Thanks for reading. :D

MATRIX
August 16th, 2003, 19:06
:fork:I recommend to Add::book:


:nervous:No abuse of the Free Service that they are Providing

Another:

:whatthe: Don't Break their T.O.S.

An Another:

Make Intelligent Questions:
Don't Ask for 100Gb Bandwith if you even Started Your Site, if you need that much prove it ROTFLMAO

Also for the Space, if you want to start your Own Page start with Little Things (Space and Bandwith) and then when you got more Visitors than your Bandwith/Space can Handle request more:D

I hope that helps a little bit:birthday:

Antonio
August 16th, 2003, 20:17
Originally posted by LifelessHost
Lets do an example.

Say your site will recieve 200 visitors a day and the main page's size is 100 KB.

((100 x 200) x 30) / 1000 = 600 MB of bandwidth
there is something wrong in the examples

if one visitor only visit one page of your site,that is correct.but if they visit more than one page,what will they cost?

and take my site as an exmaple, 7 pages /one visitor and you can figure it out,it will cost 4200mb=4.1GB bandwith ,right?
:)

Trel
August 16th, 2003, 20:47
Edit: ((Yoursize (in KB) X visits) x 30) / 1000 = Bandwidth in MB

Also I only meant visit to that page alone. I included information that they would need to do that for each page.

:D

Riverworld
August 17th, 2003, 00:15
Edit: See LLH-format Guide Section 3 for the original contents of this post :)

MATRIX
August 17th, 2003, 00:58
Originally posted by Riverworld
Adding:

Keep specifics (space, transfer, etc) at the top of the post in an easy-to-read manner (try listing them).

After you have a quick summary, go into detail about your site or what you plan to have hosted. Don't be concerned about writing too much at this stage- but on the same token, don't ramble on about nothing.

Lastly, give some details on how to contact you... a host may want to talk to you before offering anything. So make sure you have filled out your profile completely.
_______

Also remember- don't go overboard in what you need. If you know 15mb is enough- don't request 50mb. If you aren't going to get more than 300mb transfer/month - don't ask for 1gb.

If you are concerned about your site growing... say "I only need 15mb space now, but will need about 50mb space in 6 months time" - just to give the host an idea of these things, and how much you may grow.

Finally- don't be greedy and ask for too much, because you will be the only one to lose out in the end.

That's like what i said :confused:

Trel
August 17th, 2003, 01:43
Redid the formatting alittle and added in Riverworld's and Matrix's comments.

Opinions? :D

Matt8
August 17th, 2003, 02:09
I think it looks very good lifeless host. I just hope that it gets sticked and that newbs read it......

Trel
August 17th, 2003, 02:45
Hey we can hope.

I just get tired of everyone coming here and just giving a short one line post.

That won't cut it at my site, and I don't think at many others either. :D

Antonio
August 17th, 2003, 02:50
but it is hard to figure out how much transfer they will use for newly started site.they do not know how many visitors that will come.
personally,just for the guy have not run a site,500mb transfer is enough.and then they can get some free stats like http://www.pstats.com to get the stat info for their site and figure out their transfer again.

if your site have the transfer over 5gb i feel the better chioce is paid host. as free host will request add some ads more or less,if you want to run a bigger site,free host will meet your need some time.

many guys will have a process from free to paid for host

:)

MATRIX
August 17th, 2003, 03:07
Originally posted by LifelessHost
Hey we can hope.

I just get tired of everyone coming here and just giving a short one line post.

That won't cut it at my site, and I don't think at many others either. :D

You think that you are the only one who is Tired of Newbs ?:rolleyes:

In FWS.net needs New Posts, Comments, etc. Not only Request:mad:

Trel
August 17th, 2003, 03:33
Maybe we should setup an IRC room on one of the major networks, or one of us set it up?

Real time chit chatter with the hostees along with the forum?

Lets get some ideas going!

MATRIX
August 17th, 2003, 03:38
Originally posted by LifelessHost
Maybe we should setup an IRC room on one of the major networks, or one of us set it up?

Real time chit chatter with the hostees along with the forum?

Lets get some ideas going!

That's a good idea:D !

But i don't like IRC :( Why don't whe set up a phpmyChat room ? :p

Trel
August 17th, 2003, 03:40
I would never visit.

I hate php/perl based chat applications.

IRC is fine as long as there is a web interface. Maybe Java based?

MATRIX
August 17th, 2003, 03:44
Originally posted by LifelessHost
I would never visit.

I hate php/perl based chat applications.

IRC is fine as long as there is a web interface. Maybe Java based?

ok. But maybe we can Ask to the User's First :) to know their Preference:D phpmyChat vs IRC :p

And, who is the Guru in IRC :confused:

Riverworld
August 17th, 2003, 04:27
Originally posted by MATRIX
That's like what i said :confused:

My 'add' was more about format... but I got carried away a bit... but it can't hurt to repeat something once or twice, just means other agree with you in a more stretched out way ;)

Trel
August 17th, 2003, 05:07
Maybe if they read it twice, they'll get the idea?

:D

conkermaniac
August 17th, 2003, 10:34
A small mistake, but a serious one nonetheless -- the correct term is "data transfer", not "bandwidth". Bandwidth is the connection. :D

Anyway, I don't see any point in sticking this. It's not like newbies actually read any of these introductory threads. I mean, how many times have we seen requests for specs that can be found right in the Host FAQ? But in any case, I commend you for your hard work, LifelessHost. :)

Trel
August 17th, 2003, 15:23
This means war!

(On all that don't read the threads.)

:D

Trel
August 21st, 2003, 16:55
People must not be reading this.

:rolleyes:

I see lots of BAD requests.

Riverworld
August 21st, 2003, 17:03
*hands LifelessHost the poking stick*

Do you want to do the honours?

Trel
August 22nd, 2003, 02:28
I guess I could...

*pokes the users that are giving the bad styled requests*

eminence
August 22nd, 2003, 03:38
I really like this little guide and I like to think that when I have posted requested in the past they have been well formatted and easy to understand. As well as detailing the technical requirements.

If I see a post that is in all caps then I don't read it let alone reply to. Same goes for idiots who request space by saying:
"I need help" or some such. Why would you bother helping a user like that? I certainly don't. But maybe I am just too harsh.

Simon

Trel
August 22nd, 2003, 04:08
There you have it!

The work is paying off!

Someone finally read it!

YAYYYY! :D

hapanasu
August 24th, 2003, 12:56
are there any that provide at least 2 mysql databases?

Trel
August 26th, 2003, 19:06
Read the guide and ask for two.

You might actually get them. :D

GABulldog
August 26th, 2003, 20:32
Currently in need of hosting for GA Bulldogs.com (http://www.gabulldogs.com), a site for the Georgia Bulldog fan. Simply a fan site for a university and it's athletic programs -- no porn, WareZ, etc. Am looking for a free host with at least:



10-15 mb to start, but expandable as site grows.
750mb-1gb bandwidth is plenty for now, but plan to add email and forums within a year which will likely boost the bandwidth requirement.
mySQL
php
true ftp capabilities
control panel
shopping cart capable
forums capable
.NET ok
a handful of free pop3 email accounts (eventually a few hundred to be sold as vanity accounts)
no adverts, but willing to place a non-rotating banner or text message on home page


Between work, 2 young kids, a band, and gathering material for the site, it's been tough looking at hosts.

The site is currently IE friendly as it has been quickly built in Word. In just over 2 weeks, Geocities tells me I have received over 463 unique page views, and the site is now getting 40+ unique hits a day. You can reach me at gabulldogs2000@yahoo.com.

If I've left anything out, I'm sure Lifeless & Co will let me know. :biggrin2:

Thanks

GA Bulldog

--------------------
Givin' the Dawg its bone.

Trel
August 26th, 2003, 21:10
Start a new thread with your request. :D

Trel
August 28th, 2003, 17:54
LLH format.

I like that.. :D

Riverworld
August 29th, 2003, 01:04
Originally posted by LifelessHost
LLH format.

I like that.. :D

lol... from this day forth, I pronounce all requests that are in this style 'LLH format'

...just for ease of use ;)

Trel
August 29th, 2003, 23:01
Is there some kind of rule that we can get a post turned into a sticky after it gets 1000 reads or something?

:D

Trel
August 31st, 2003, 04:39
Today Riverworld and I agreed to rename the LLH-Format to a more suitable name.

The format described in this guide will be known as:

S.H.R.F.

Standard Hosting Request Format

Cheers everyone. :D

Riverworld
August 31st, 2003, 05:03
Remember everyone:

The aim of SHRF is to personalise contact with customers and companies; make sure you (as a user) communicate what you need from a host specifically; prevent anyone's time from being wasted from lack of information from the start.

trenzterra
August 31st, 2003, 07:58
No offence, but what I think your ideas of SHRF is quite childish.

Yes, the first post is good. But from your replies, it seems that you want to be popular and honoured.

And I don't see any purpose of SHRF. Who gives a damn what format is it in?

There no standard for hosting request formats.

Riverworld
August 31st, 2003, 15:18
Originally posted by trenzterra
Yes, the first post is good. But from your replies, it seems that you want to be popular and honoured.It's what happens when something is developed... the first post is a product of the replies in some respects.


Originally posted by trenzterra
And I don't see any purpose of SHRF. Who gives a damn what format is it in? No one's asking you to see a purpose in SHRF, but I know both me and LifelessHost care what format it's in - and for varies reasons as stated above.

If you don't like SHRF, then fine, don't use it - I don't make people post using it, but if they do, then I will take the time and effort to review the request, and then I will take the time and effort to consider giving them a free service that I have to pay for.

KBC
August 31st, 2003, 17:43
I've been reading a few request threads and have noticed many times that you've been directing many users to use that *format* when requesting for free space... is this a new rule then? Perhaps you could PM one of the moderators or administrators on this issue?

Also I think that format can be bit long-winded... not everyone may want to give a description or summary of what they exactly want... just my opinion... not everyone may want to write a request in the same way.

Trel
August 31st, 2003, 20:02
Okay let me give my take on this.

Riverworld and I have agreed that the SHRF is an easy way for hosts to judge the worthiness of a website to be hosted somewhere.

If you'll also notice I provided an updated simple to read list of hosts from around the internet that can be used for those that don't want to/won't/can't request in the SHRF. Its not a rule, and shouldn't be.

Note 1) Is it so much to ask to have someone request in a format that requires them to put alittle effort forward instead of money? If you don't want to request in the SHRF.. don't, its that easy. Freedom of choice is a big thing with me.

Note 2) We put alot of thought and consideration into the guidelines we point people to. Instead of saying its childish and we're forcing it on them. Give some constructive suggestions about how it could be made better.

I hope this clears up alittle about it. :)

Trel
August 31st, 2003, 20:17
The following is an unoffical guide to how to request free hosting here on FreeWebspace.net

It is not required to request, however it is a very good idea.
Please take this under advisement and have a nice day.


I hope that addresses all concerns about this guide. If either of you have any suggestions about it. Please PM me with them and I'll take them under careful consideration. I want this guide to be the best it can be. :cool:

Demigod
August 31st, 2003, 20:32
wow. you explained everything so crystal clear. it was so simple that i didnt even bother to read everything.

maybe this thread will get stickied and hopefully the newbies will read this, and there should be less dumb requests now.

Good job on the guide LifelessHost :classic2:

Trel
August 31st, 2003, 20:36
Was that intended as sarcasm?

If not, thank you. I do believe in it sincerely. :)

If so, any suggestions on how to improve it? :confused:

trenzterra
September 1st, 2003, 00:02
Originally posted by LifelessHost
Okay let me give my take on this.

Riverworld and I have agreed that the SHRF is an easy way for hosts to judge the worthiness of a website to be hosted somewhere.

If you'll also notice I provided an updated simple to read list of hosts from around the internet that can be used for those that don't want to/won't/can't request in the SHRF. Its not a rule, and shouldn't be.

Note 1) Is it so much to ask to have someone request in a format that requires them to put alittle effort forward instead of money? If you don't want to request in the SHRF.. don't, its that easy. Freedom of choice is a big thing with me.

Note 2) We put alot of thought and consideration into the guidelines we point people to. Instead of saying its childish and we're forcing it on them. Give some constructive suggestions about how it could be made better.

I hope this clears up alittle about it. :) I don't mind this idea, but not to the extent of in every thread, you keep asking someone to request in your format. As what Jan said, it's very annoying.

conkermaniac
September 2nd, 2003, 00:29
Originally posted by trenzterra
I don't mind this idea, but not to the extent of in every thread, you keep asking someone to request in your format. As what Jan said, it's very annoying. Agreed. I don't have a problem with your format, but I am starting to get annoyed by your persistence to get every user to conform to your standard. If you really believe in freedom of choice, then perhaps you should just let them be, rather than reminding everyone to post in your format. Thanks.

Trel
September 2nd, 2003, 16:34
Will a moderator please lock this topic since its all over?

Please? :confused: