Web Development and Database Administration Level-III

Module Title: Evaluating and selecting hosting service

Unit One: ISP Selection

1.1. Comparable characteristics of hosting services

1.1.1. ISP (Internet Service Provider)

An ISP (internet service provider) is a company that provides individuals and organizations
access to the internet and other related services. An ISP has the equipment and the
telecommunication line access required to have a point of presence on the internet for the
geographic area served.
ISPs make it possible for customers to access the internet while also providing additional
services such as email, domain registration and web hosting. ISPs may also provide different
internet connection types, such as cable and fiber. Connections can also come in the form of
high-speed broadband or non-broadband. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
states that to be considered high-speed, a connection must have download speeds of at least 25
megabits per second (Mbps) and upload speeds a minimum of 3 Mbps.
An ISP is also sometimes referred to as an internet access provider. ISP is also sometimes used
as an abbreviation for independent service provider to distinguish a service provider that is a
separate company from a telephone company.
1.1.2. Web Hosting
Web hosting is a service that allows organizations and individuals to post a website or web page
onto the Internet.

1|Page
Web hosting is a necessity for any website it is the physical location of your website on the
Internet, an online storage center that houses the information, images, video, and other content
that comprises your website.
A web hosting service is a type of Internet hosting service that allows individuals and
organizations to make their website accessible via the World Wide Web. Web hosts are
companies that provide space on a server owned or leased for use by clients, as well as
providing Internet connectivity, typically in a data center.
Web hosting is the place where all the files of your website live. It is like the home of your
website where it actually lives.

Figure 1.1: web hosting features

1.1.3. Characteristics of a good web hosting company
Many website owners in many cases experience hard times when looking for good web hosting
service. The attributes and characteristics that a good wed hosting company should have.
A good web hosting company should have
I. Good reputation
A good web hosting company must have a good and excellent reputation in the web hosting
business circles. In this, I mean that the companies’ customers must say something positive
about the company. If this is the case you can determine that their customers are giving them
positive feedback and they are complimenting them due to their excellent service delivery.
II. Long existence
A good web hosting service provider should have been in existence for some reasonably long
time. One is advised to go for such a company so that they can avoid the many flies by night
websites that are formed overnight and usually put up by cons whose only interest is to corn

2|Page
unsuspecting clients by purporting to offer web hosting services. One advantage that comes with
the companies that have been in the service for long is that they will be able to give you the
reliable service that you so much require.
III. Ability to offer technical support
The other major characteristic that a good web hosting company should offer is that they should
have the ability to provide all the technical support where and when you need it. One thing you
should note is that in some particular instance, you will be in a situation where you will need to
do some troubleshooting on your own, this will only be possible when you have a web hosting
provider that can provide technical support to you or customer support by email or trough phone
calls on a 24 hours basis.
IV. Customized services
When you are looking for a web hosting service provider be sure to select that which will offer
customized services to you. They should have the ability to expand on the things that are already
available and disposable to you at that particular moment. They should be able to offer you more
space, and more options for your service, or even they should be able to change the platform that
you are using to sort out information.
V. Quality machinery and hardware
You should endeavor to deal with a company that has a good and diverse under the hood. What
this means is that the machinery and hardware that they use in running their services are going to
be able to offer all the different specialized services that you require.
VI. Security
A good web hosting service provider should have stuff like masking and shadow systems; they
should enable easy backup in case of any emergency.

1.2. Flexible Email and Mailing list services

1.2.1. Email Hosting

Email hosting is the service of renting out and managing email servers. The server is a space
where you can send, receive and store emails. With email hosting, you can set up professional
email addresses on your domain name.
An email hosting account is dedicated to emails. Email hosting providers operate email servers.
Email hosting should not be confused with regular email providers such as Google and Yahoo;
email hosting is a premium service that operates emails on your own domain.
1.2.2. Email Hosting Services
There are several types of email services that a hosting company may offer. The value of each
service depends on your needs. Taking the time to evaluate your email needs today (and how
they might change as your business or team grows), will set you up for the future.
A. Free Web-hosting Email services

3|Page
Web-hosting email services allow you to send and receive mail and manage email accounts
through webmail and email clients. There’s a variety of free email hosting options that you are
probably already familiar with: Google’s Gmail, Microsoft’s Hotmail/Outlook, Yahoo, and AOL
are household names.

Pros:
 Free with no commitment or contract.
 Free email services typically include enough file storage to meet the needs of small
businesses and individuals.
Cons:
 Might have irritating banners or on/off page advertisements.
 Weaker security measures.
 Limited help and customer support options.
 Recipients doubt your authenticity.
 Less cloud storage space.
 Email addresses can be harder to remember than you@yoursite.com
 Free providers usually scan your email content for advertisement purposes and sell this
data to third parties.
B. Professional Email Hosting
It’s not advised to use free email hosting if your business depends on email as a revenue driver
you get what you pay for. For personal usage or start-ups, having reliable and secure software is
also beneficial. Free and standard email hosting packages don’t always deliver the kind of
quality that professional or private users need. Professional (paid) email hosting services are
most likely to fit the needs of a growing business better.
C. Cloud Email Hosting and Shared Hosting
Cloud Email Hosting

Unless you're working in an enormous enterprise, with a budget to match, you almost certainly
don't have the disaster recovery infrastructure and processes that the likes of Microsoft, Google,
and other major cloud email providers have. So, if you truly are concerned about disaster
recovery for your email, Private Email cloud providers are the way to go.
As with other cloud-based services, the advantages of using cloud-based email are operational
efficiency and reduced costs. There’s no need to hire IT staff dedicated to managing internal
email servers, and there’s no physical server equipment to maintain. Cloud hosting is the most
scalable solution. You can take and lose resources as your user count changes, which keeps costs
efficient.
Cloud servers are always kept up-to-date with the latest security patches and recent
technological advancements. Benefits include increased bandwidth requirements and firewall

4|Page
settings for additional security, among many others. A final benefit to consider is that email lives
on the Internet, so if your system goes down, everything is safely backed up.

Shared Hosting vs Cloud Server Hosting

The quality of email hosting varies depending on what you choose, but we can make some
generalizations. With email hosted on shared hosting, the email accounts associated with a
website are usually stored on the same server as the website. Typically, the email services
offered with shared email hosting restrict certain features, from the number of email accounts
included (such as how many outgoing emails can be sent), and whether your disk has space.
Shared hosting plans include basic spam and virus protection.
On the other hand, when the email is hosted with professional cloud hosting services, accounts
are most likely to be on dedicated email hosting servers. Further, users are often offered more
premium features, from collaboration tools to more advanced anti-spam and virus protection
services, larger email and file storage, full mobile support, and greater security provisions, to
name a few.

1.3. Business needs support service standards

Website hosting is not always easy. Problems will come up, and if your web hosting service
does not offer quality customer support, then you may find the experience stressful and
frustrating.
A good web host always makes sure that every member of their support team is fully trained and
adequately prepared to guide customers through the intricate processes. Below are the major
tasks where you will need help from the customer support team.

I. Installing new tools

Most web host companies nowadays offer many tools and software systems to streamline your
website functionalities. Among the most popular software integrations, there Content
Management Systems like WordPress, Joomla, and Magento. Such platforms are indispensable
for blogging, eCommerce and many such specialized areas of the web.

II. Site Errors and Malfunctions

Every website can fall victim to unforeseen errors and malfunctions. Not all site owners have
technical experts on their team. Besides, the server infrastructure varies from host to host. Even
if you have some prior experience in hosting or server management, the new host you have
moved on to might not have any common feature.
This is where the customer support representatives can come in and get your website out of the
mess. The hosting company usually trains them to resolve such situations in a matter of minutes.
So, if you let them take over the situation, they can show a way out faster.

5|Page
 III. Web Hosting Upgrades

Sometimes, our website exceeds our expectation and grows a lot faster than we estimated. In
such cases, it ends up demanding more resources than the allocated amount to handle the extra
traffic and workload.

1.4. Data capacity for partial outages

Shared platforms, hosting services, DNS servers and even physical infrastructure all contribute
to the interconnected, collective fragility of the Internet.
As the internet ecosystem of applications, services and physical infrastructure becomes more
and more interconnected, outages can affect increasingly large portions of end-users’ daily lives.
A variety of factors can interrupt service, from temporary disruptions to longer-term incidents or
degradations. Common points of failure could be major ISPs, DNS providers, CDN providers,
hosting or infrastructure vendors, or even APIs for information exchange.
When these service disruptions happen, the service uses to be unavailable or degraded from the
end-user point of view, but what is hidden behind the causes of an outage?

 Internet application (content providers): Internet application-level concentration is

easy to be seen and problematic for outages occurrence. Today, companies such as
Google hold the Internet's most popular services. Including web searching, email hosting
(Gmail) and video platform (YouTube). Application updates and application
server/misconfiguration issues are frequent root causes among service infrastructure
providers.
 Service infrastructure (cloud service providers): CDNs, DNS and cloud service
providers are now a fundamental infrastructure part. For example, over 80% of top
websites globally are using CDNs, such as Akamai or Fastly. Software updates during
regular maintenance, misconfigurations and failure of HW/SW parts are frequent root
causes among service infrastructure providers.
 International connectivity (ISPs): Global communications depend heavily on subsea
cables and interconnection/peering providers that connect regions as well as
telecommunication networks and content providers.
 Others: Service might be down because of severe weather such as earthquakes or
hurricanes, as well as electrical power outages.
 Telecommunications operators:
 Access provision: Internet connectivity depends on access and last-mile providers
to get the content to the end-user and any failure in the access network part is
critical. A teardown of access links or any access-related failure disconnects the
customer from its provider affecting end-user connectivity.

6|Page
  Network Congestion: It is the reduced quality of service that mostly occurs when
too many users are trying to access a network at the same time in a certain
geographical area. Typical effects include queueing delay, packet loss or the
blocking of new connections. The circuit quality may gridlock or deteriorate causing
the network collapse and impede users from making an efficient use of the network.
Lack of prevision or support of user demand could be considered either a business-
related matter or a technical one depending on the circumstances.
 Transport Link failures: This failure happens when the physical or logical links
between network systems or equipment assets suffers an interruption. Probably link
failures occur due to low converging time, previously allocated delay and
bandwidth, and iterative loops which degrade network performance.
 Equipment or node failure: Lockups and overloads can also cause equipment
failure. Furthermore, not grounding or protecting the equipment from surges can
leave it vulnerable to circuit damage. Furthermore, these technical issues can be
mitigated with the appropriate hardware setup and maintenance. This category may
also include crashes or non-planned reboots, line card failures or resets, CPU
overload or even human misconfiguration.
 Routing problems: In case of link and node failures, the routing might be able to
automatically find a new stable configuration, guaranteeing good connections
between any pair of nodes in the network. However, sometimes routing protocols do
not repair connectivity issues the way they should, or worse, they can create outages
of their own that wouldn’t have occurred in a properly configured network.

1.5. Security technologies assessment

Internet Service Provider Security Policies

One of the most important elements of a secure network is the written policy that governs it.
Any measures an ISP implements to increase security for itself and its subscribers will be
ineffective if there is no written policy to back the security measures up. A well written security
policy that includes sections on subscriber security, policies for server installation and
hardening, password policies, and network monitoring serves as a means to enforce security at
the ISP, while helping to show that the ISP was not negligent in any liability issues.
ISP Secure Network Design
Security must be the foundation of an ISP's network design. Without proper security,
compromises could result in service disruptions to thousands of users. The steps that ISPs take
to ensure security on their networks could also have a direct effect on the security of their
subscribers.

1.6. Evaluation of scripting language availability

7|Page
Web server scripting languages and frameworks are essential tools for system administrators
who want to create dynamic and interactive web applications. However, there are many options
to choose from, and each one has its own advantages and disadvantages. How do you decide
which one is best for your web server? In this article, we will explore some factors that can help
you make an informed choice.
I. Project requirements
The first thing you need to consider is what kind of web application you want to build and what
features and functionalities it needs. Some scripting languages and frameworks are more suitable
for certain types of projects than others. For example, PHP is widely used for content
management systems, e-commerce platforms, and blogging sites, while Python is popular for
data analysis, machine learning, and web scraping.
II. Server environment
The second factor you need to consider is your web server environment and how compatible it is
with the scripting language and framework you want to use. Some scripting languages and
frameworks require specific server software, operating systems, or libraries to run properly. For
example, Ruby on Rails is a framework that runs on the Ruby programming language, and it
needs a web server that supports the Rack interface, such as Apache or Nginx.
III. Your personal preference
The third factor you need to consider is your personal preference and comfort level with the
scripting language and framework you want to use. Some scripting languages and frameworks
have different syntax, style, and paradigms that can affect your coding productivity and quality.
Budget and Resources
The fourth factor you need to consider is your budget and resources for your web application
project. Some scripting languages and frameworks are more expensive or resource-intensive
than others, depending on their licensing, hosting, development, and maintenance costs. For
example, Java is a scripting language that requires a Java Virtual Machine to run, which can
consume more memory and CPU than other scripting languages.
IV. Testing and Debugging options
The fifth factor you need to consider is your testing and debugging options for your web
application project. Some scripting languages and frameworks have more or less support for
testing and debugging tools and techniques, which can affect your code quality and reliability.
For example, Python is a scripting language that has a built-in debugger and a rich set of testing
frameworks and libraries, while Bash is a scripting language that has limited debugging
capabilities and relies on external tools for testing. You should also consider the ease and speed
of testing and debugging your web application, and how they affect your development cycle.
V. Future plans
The sixth factor you need to consider is your future plans for your web application project. Some
scripting languages and frameworks are more or less adaptable and flexible for changing

8|Page
requirements, new features, or different platforms. For example, Node.js is a framework that
runs on the JavaScript programming language, and it allows you to use the same language for
both the front-end and the back-end of your web application, which can simplify your
development and deployment process.

1.7. Assessment of optional server applications for advanced web functions

In the realm of advanced web business functions, selecting the right server applications is
paramount for ensuring performance, security, and scalability. Here's a brief overview of key
applications:
A. Web Server
 Options: Apache, Nginx, Microsoft IIS
 Considerations: Choose based on performance, security features, and
compatibility with frameworks. Scalability and ease of configuration are vital.
B. Database Server
 Options: MySQL, PostgreSQL, MongoDB
 Considerations: Select based on data type, scalability, ACID compliance, and
compatibility with your chosen programming language and framework.
C. Application Server
 Options: Tomcat, JBoss, Microsoft ASP.NET
 Considerations: Evaluate the ability to handle dynamic content, scalability, and
compatibility with your programming language and frameworks.
D. Load Balancer
 Options: Nginx, HAProxy, F5 BIG-IP
 Considerations: Choose one supporting your web and application servers, with
features like SSL termination and scalability.
E. Caching System
 Options: Varnish, Redis, Memcached
 Considerations: Choose based on content type, compatibility, and effective cache
invalidation strategies.
F. Security Applications
 Options: Web Application Firewall (WAF), IDS, SIEM
 Considerations: Prioritize integrated security measures, regular updates, and
monitoring against emerging threats.

1.8. Client selection criteria with ISP hosting service

9|Page
Selecting the right Internet Service Provider (ISP) hosting service for your business is crucial for
ensuring a reliable online presence. Here are key client selection criteria to consider when
evaluating ISP hosting services:
I. Bandwidth and Speed:
 Ensure the ISP offers sufficient bandwidth to accommodate your current
and future needs.
 Consider the speed and latency of the connection, especially if your
business relies on real-time applications or large data transfers.
II. Reliability and Uptime:
 Check the ISP's historical uptime performance and reliability. Look for
guarantees or Service Level Agreements (SLAs) that ensure a high level of
service availability.
III. Scalability:
 Assess the ISP's ability to scale its services to meet the growing demands of
your business. Consider future expansion plans and the ease with which you
can upgrade your hosting plan.
IV. Security Measures:
 Evaluate the ISP's security measures, including firewalls, DDoS protection,
and other security protocols. Ensure that the hosting environment is secure
against potential threats.
V. Support and Customer Service:
 Consider the responsiveness and quality of customer support. A reliable ISP
should offer prompt and effective support to address any issues that may
arise.
VI. Technical Features and Compatibility:
 Check the technical features offered by the ISP, such as support for specific
web servers, databases, programming languages, and content management
systems. Ensure compatibility with your existing technology stack.
VII. Data Backup and Recovery:
 Assess the ISP's data backup and recovery procedures. Regular backups and
a robust recovery plan are essential for safeguarding your business data.
VIII. Network Redundancy:
 Look for ISPs with redundant network connections to minimize the risk of
downtime in case of a network failure. Redundancy ensures continuity of
service.
IX. Location and Geographic Coverage:

10 | P a g e
  Consider the geographic coverage of the ISP's data centers. Opt for a
provider with data centers strategically located to ensure low latency and
faster access to your website or applications.
X. Cost and Value for Money:
 Compare the pricing plans and contractual terms of different ISPs. Consider
the overall value for money, taking into account the features, support, and
reliability offered by each provider.
XI. Service Level Agreements (SLAs):
 Review SLAs carefully. Look for guarantees related to uptime,
performance, and issue resolution. SLAs provide a clear understanding of
the level of service you can expect.
XII. Reviews and Reputation:
 Research reviews and testimonials from other clients who have used the
ISP's hosting services. A positive reputation and feedback from existing
clients can be indicative of the provider's reliability..

Unit Two: Permanent Online Presence

2.1. Server performance and availability

2.1.1. Server monitoring

It is a vital part of managing your server infrastructure. In addition to keeping track of hardware
failures, it helps you identify potential problems before they become serious.
Servers are essential components of modern IT infrastructures and provide services such as
email, web hosting, database management, and other applications. If you run a large
organization or company, chances are you have servers, at least some of them.
2.1.2. Types of Server Monitoring
Let’s take a closer look at the various types of server monitoring software. Different types are
available as a function of what they do, and you can better understand what to look out for.
I. Availability/Uptime Monitoring
Availability/uptime is the single most important metric of server monitoring, and other metrics
may matter if the server is inaccessible or otherwise unavailable. Server availability/uptime
monitoring keeps track of the server to ensure it’s working properly and responding to requests
sent to the server.
II. Performance Monitoring
Keeping track of uptimes is crucial, and it’s important that your users can reach your servers
whenever needed. However, uptime and availability are the bare minimum of server monitoring.

11 | P a g e
Performance monitoring will let you keep track of all the issues discussed. Performance
evaluation ensures applications start quickly and respond to user requests as expected.

III. Resource Monitoring

A server is not one single component; instead, it consists of multiple parts. Monitoring of the
server should focus on the performance of these components. Hard Disk, RAM, and Processor
are the three main components of a server.
IV. Error Monitoring
Errors are inevitable. Whether they’re caused by users entering invalid data, applications not
saving data to databases, or conflicts between multiple systems, errors will happen. However,
you should be worried about a sudden increase in the number of errors occurring.
V. Log Monitoring
Server logs can provide valuable information about what is happening on your servers, and
application logs can help identify problems with applications running on your servers.
Monitoring these types of logs can help you determine if something terrible happened on one of
your servers.
VI. Database Monitoring
Database monitoring is keeping track of important performance metrics that give insight into
how well your databases perform. These metrics include response times, availability,
throughput, and memory usage.
VII. Security Monitoring
The types of monitoring that we’ve discussed thus far relate to issues that occur unintentionally.
However, certain system issues are caused by the deliberate actions of users, malware, or third
parties, which may put your data, systems, or business at risk.
The default solution to server security issues is installing an anti-malware program.

2.2. Negotiate escalation procedures and performance standards

Negotiating escalation procedures and performance standards with an Internet Service Provider
(ISP) is a critical aspect of ensuring a reliable and responsive online infrastructure. The
following paragraphs outline key considerations and strategies for negotiating these aspects with
an ISP:
A. Establishing Clear Performance Standards
In the negotiation process with your ISP, it is imperative to define and establish clear
performance standards that align with the specific needs and expectations of your business. This
involves identifying metrics such as bandwidth, latency, and uptime, and agreeing on target
levels for each. Be explicit in detailing the expected performance benchmarks and ensure that
they are measurable and achievable.
B. Defining Escalation Procedures

12 | P a g e
Escalation procedures are crucial for addressing issues promptly and efficiently. Work with the
ISP to define a clear and hierarchical escalation process for different types of incidents, ranging
from minor disruptions to critical outages. Clarify the roles and responsibilities of both parties
during escalations, and establish communication channels that facilitate swift resolution. This
includes specifying points of contact, response times, and steps for elevating concerns to higher
levels of support.
C. Customizing Service Level Agreements (SLAs)
Service Level Agreements (SLAs) formalize the agreed-upon performance standards and
escalation procedures. Negotiate SLAs that accurately reflect the priorities and requirements of
your business. Include details such as uptime guarantees, response times for support inquiries,
and the compensation or penalties associated with deviations from agreed-upon performance
levels. A well-defined SLA serves as a contractual framework that helps maintain accountability
and transparency between your business and the ISP.
D. Continuous Monitoring and Reporting
Incorporate provisions for continuous monitoring and reporting within the negotiation process.
Define how performance metrics will be monitored, measured, and reported by the ISP. Real-
time monitoring tools can provide both parties with insights into the network's health and
performance. Regular reports help track adherence to SLAs and provide data for collaborative
performance reviews, enabling both sides to identify areas for improvement and optimization.
E. Flexibility and Review Mechanisms
Negotiate for flexibility within the agreement to accommodate changes in your business
requirements or unexpected challenges. Include review mechanisms that allow for periodic
assessments of the agreed-upon performance standards and escalation procedures. This ensures
that the partnership remains adaptable to evolving technological landscapes and the dynamic
needs of your business.
F. Incentives for Performance Improvement
Consider incorporating incentives for exceptional performance and service quality. Mutual
success should be celebrated, and incentives can encourage the ISP to go above and beyond in
delivering reliable services. Conversely, establish fair consequences for persistent
underperformance, ensuring that there are mechanisms in place to address issues proactively.
Successful negotiations with an ISP involve establishing clear performance standards, defining
escalation procedures, customizing SLAs, incorporating continuous monitoring and reporting,
ensuring flexibility, and creating mechanisms for both incentives and consequences.

2.3. Security and backup procedures for business needs

13 | P a g e
The ever-expanding role of data in every facet of our lives has made it increasingly important to
plan for the possibility that something might go wrong. And given the various threats to data,
chances are it probably will. That’s why you should be prepared all the time. This article
provides an easy five-step back up security measures plan.
i. Encrypt Data and Control the Encryption Keys
Without proper encryption, your sensitive files might find their way into the wrong hands,
leading to disasters like identity theft. That’s why you should create backup copies of all files
and encrypt the ones containing vital information.
Data encryption protects your digital data confidentiality while it is transmitted online or
through computer networks, or stored on a particular system. No wonder modern encryption
algorithms are a crucial aspect of IT systems security and communications.
These algorithms offer confidentiality and drive primary security initiatives, such as integrity,
non-repudiation, and authentication.
ii. Control the Keys to the Storage
As far as storage of the data backups is concerned, the debate involving cloud storage and on-
premises storage still wages on. So, you should consider the pros and cons of each, and make a
poignant decision.
One major difference between cloud storage and on-premises storage is the financial aspect.
Take a look at the highlights of on-premises storage:
 Storage resources are dedicated to the company.
 High-cost investment.
 Storage resources are procured, owned and handled by the enterprise.
 Enterprise secures the storage data and resources.
The features of cloud storage include: Third-party ownership and management of storage
resources.
 Storage resources can be purchased pre-paid or on a pay-as-you-go basis.
 Software gets updated as part of the active subscription.
 Storage resources are often shared in a multi-tenant environment.
 No need for IT to install patches and updates.
iii. Don’t Let Users In
Introduce users to the importance of backup security measures, rules, and responsibilities. Let
them know how secure data backups are necessary for data protection, including personal.
You can go one step further and execute special social engineering attacks to scrutinize user
awareness and identify possible security breaches.
iv. Create a New User for Backups Instead of Using “Admin”

14 | P a g e
To implement backup security measures and software on your system, you must operate it under
a specific user in the Operating System. In some cases, the software will lack the right to make
backup copies of files and folders.
v. Think Ahead
Smartphones break. Laptops crash. The dreaded “blue screen of death” makes an unwelcome
appearance – these are just a few of the reasons why it’s necessary to keep backup copies of
your data. Of course, you might not lose all your data in the event of a disaster, but it’s never a
bad idea to take precautionary measures.

Unit Three: Technical Requirements for Web hosting

3.1. OS compatibility with business software and applications

An operating system is a system software program that distributes and manages the server's
resources. It acts as a communication bridge between user's and computer's hardware hence,
prioritizes user's request and programs. An operating system ensures that the user's content on
the server does not interfere with other users. Operating System is one of the most important
support systems for a server that ensures smooth processes. It is the foundational software on
your server.
While availing of the web hosting services, one of the major concerns is to choose the right
operating system.
3.1.1. Types of Operating Systems
There are different operating systems (OS), and they have their benefits to offer. Choosing one
for your web hosting is a critical decision that can significantly impact your website’s
performance. An OS is software that runs your website and creates a bridge between you and
your web hosting service.
The two most popular ones used for running websites are Linux and Windows-based OS.

LINUX

Linux is an open-source operating system created out of the need for a free, robust, and secure
OS. Open-Source Operating System means you can access the code freely with no cost or any
restrictions to edit or change anything you want on your website from here on in. It also allows
developers worldwide to contribute new ideas to make it better all the time. Security-wise they
are perfect.
They are very secure, and the OS is constantly updated with security patches, making it one of
the most secure operating systems available. Speed-wise they are also great, especially when
running on a VPS or dedicated server.

15 | P a g e
WINDOWS

Windows is the most popular OS used globally and has been around since 1985. It is created and
owned by Microsoft and used by millions of people all over the globe.
Its popularity comes from it being very user-friendly and easy to use. It makes it perfect for
home users as well as businesses. Microsoft also offers a wide range of software compatible
with Windows, which can make your life much easier.

Linux vs. Windows: the verdict?

Each OS has its benefits and drawbacks, so it ultimately comes down to what is most important
to you when making your decision. If security, speed, and affordability are high on your list,
then Linux would be an excellent option for you. However, if ease of use and compatibility with
other Microsoft software is more critical, then Windows would be a better choice.
Whichever operating system you choose, make sure to research the best hosting service to suit
your needs and find one that offers unlimited bandwidth, disk space as well as 24/7 technical
support.
3.1.2. Choose the right OS for Web Hosting
When you select a website hosting operating system, there are a few things that you need to
consider.

Budget

The first thing that you need to take into account is your budget. As mentioned above, there are
different types of operating systems available for hosting platforms. You should choose one
which suits you according to your requirements and financial capacity.
Linux is an open-source platform which means that you will not have to pay any amount.
However, some companies host platforms that charge a nominal fee per month or year.
Windows operating system is the other one available in the market, but it will cost you money
according to your needs and requirements. It can be paid annually or monthly, depending upon
what suits you best.

Requirements

The second factor that you need to consider is your website requirements. Different websites
have different requirements when it comes to hosting. Some might require more bandwidth and
storage space than others, or they might need a specific type of software installed on the server.
You should choose an operating system that can cater to your website’s needs so that you don’t
have to worry about anything else once it gets hosted.
Linux is known for its security and stability features, while the Windows operating system is
best suited for gaming and multimedia purposes. It would be best to decide which one works
better for your website.

16 | P a g e
Technical Knowledge

The third factor is your technical knowledge. It might not be an issue for some people, but if
you’re not comfortable dealing with code and software, you might want to choose an easy
platform to use.
Windows operating system falls in this category as it is a user-friendly platform that does not
require any coding knowledge or experience. On the other hand, Linux can be difficult to use for
beginners, so make sure you are familiar with its workings before making your decision.
Hosting companies usually have tutorials and manuals available online, which will help you use
their services. You can contact their customer support if you have further questions.

Support

The fourth factor you need to consider is the level of support. It is essential because you don’t
want to be stuck with a platform where you can’t get help.
Hosting companies usually have different types of support available, depending on the operating
system that you choose. Windows-based hosting platforms usually offer telephone and chat
support, while Linux-based hosting platforms offer email and ticketing systems. When making
your decision, ensure to check the availability of these forms and their respective benefits before
signing up.

Compatibility

It means ensuring that the operating system you choose is compatible with the software and
applications that your website uses.
Most hosting companies offer a list of compatible software on their websites, so make sure to
check this before deciding. Linux is known for its compatibility with various software and
applications, while the Windows operating system is not as versatile.

3.2. Web-host server for dynamic websites

3.2.1. Dynamic Websites

A dynamic website shows different content to different users. The content may depend on their
locations, time zones, language preferences, or past behavior on the website.
Dynamic sites use a server-side programming language to connect with a database to enable
interactive features and alter the content. Their common use cases include forums, social media
platforms, and eCommerce sites.
A dynamic website shows different content to different users. The content may depend on their
locations, time zones, language preferences, or past behavior on the website.
Dynamic sites use a server-side programming language to connect with a database to enable
interactive features and alter the content. Their common use cases include forums, social media
platforms, and eCommerce sites.

17 | P a g e
 3.2.2. Dynamic Website Types
Depending on the scripting language, there are two types of dynamic websites.

Client-Side Scripting

A client-side scripting dynamic website changes its content in response to user actions on the
page, such as clicking a button.
Generally speaking, client-side scripted website content is loaded in the visitor’s web browser
instead of the server. This script determines what user interactions trigger the event and which
page content changes.
When building this type of dynamic website, commonly-used client-side scripting languages
include JavaScript and VBScript. As it doesn’t use any server-side scripting languages, a
dynamic site can be hosted statically.

Server-Side Scripting

Server-side scripted web pages’ content is rendered on the host and changes before being
displayed. This script instructs the application server on how to assemble the requested page.
Users’ requests and inputs on the website can trigger the script. For instance, when users log in
to their eCommerce accounts, the script will instruct the server to show their cart items.
Server-side scripts are used to build an interactive website. They let users enter data into forms
or upload images, which will be stored in a database.
3.2.3. Build Dynamic Websites
Dynamic web pages require complex software and additional scripting language, making them
more difficult to develop than static websites. They are also more costly and require more
computing power.
A static website has fewer security risks since it doesn’t connect to databases or external
applications. Cyber criminals often exploit these connections to attack dynamic sites.
That said, a dynamic web page has some advantages:
 Easier maintenance. Developers can automatically update multiple dynamic web pages
simultaneously. To update static pages, they must modify each file’s source code.
 Content personalization. Dynamic websites provide personalized content
recommendations according to user needs. It helps improve conversion rates and user
experience.
 More features. Unlike static sites, dynamic pages are interactive and have more
features. For instance, users can register an account or create a post on your site.
 Better search engine optimization (SEO). Dynamic websites let you easily add
SEO tools to optimize your content. Despite being quicker, a static website may rank
lower in search engines.

18 | P a g e
 3.3. Security systems and payment technologies

3.3.1. Securing Payments in E-commerce

In the ever-growing world of e-commerce, securing payment transactions has become a top
priority for businesses and consumers. With over 4.9 billion internet users worldwide, e-
commerce sales continue to increase. As a result, the issue of secure payments becomes critical,
and businesses must give it the attention and resources it deserves.
Online security threats are constantly evolving, and e-commerce businesses must stay up to date
with the best practices and latest technologies to protect their customers' sensitive financial
information. This article will explore the online payment ecosystem, explain why secure
payments are essential for e-commerce, and provide insights into payment security standards
and regulations.
3.3.2. Understanding the Online Payment Ecosystem
The online payment ecosystem comprises several components that enable seamless and secure
payment transactions. The primary components of this ecosystem are:
 Customers: They initiate transactions by choosing the goods or services they want to
purchase and providing their payment details.
 Merchant Websites/Apps: The e-commerce platform, developed by a merchant, which
displays the products and services for purchase and collects customers' payment
information.
 Payment Gateways: They act as intermediaries between the merchant website and the
payment processor. Payment gateways encrypt customer payment details and transmit
them securely to the payment processor.
 Payment Processors: They receive, validate, and process payment information from
the payment gateway, acquiring the funds from the issuing bank and depositing them
into the merchant's account.
 Issuing Banks: Financial institutions that issue credit or debit cards to consumers on
behalf of the card networks (e.g., Visa or Mastercard).
 Card Networks: Associations or organizations responsible for establishing and
maintaining the rules and parameters that govern how electronic payment transactions
are processed (e.g., Visa, Mastercard, American Express, etc.).
To ensure secure transactions, all these components must work together cohesively and
implement security measures that protect sensitive customer data.
3.3.3. Secure Payments are Essential for E-Commerce
Securing payments should be among the top priorities for any e-commerce business. Here are
some compelling reasons why secure payments are essential for e-commerce:

19 | P a g e
  Build Trust and Confidence: By ensuring that payment transactions are conducted
securely, you can instill trust and confidence in your customers, leading to long-term
relationships. Customers who trust your ability to protect their financial information will
likely make repeat purchases and recommend your business to others.
 Prevent Fraud: Online payment fraud can significantly impact an e-commerce business,
resulting in lost revenue and damage to its reputation. By implementing strong security
measures, businesses can minimize the risk of fraud and protect their customers,
transactions, and bottom line.
 Compliance with Regulations and Standards: E-commerce businesses must comply
with various payment security regulations, such as the Payment Card Industry Data
Security Standard (PCI DSS). Ensuring secure payments helps businesses stay compliant
and avoid potential non-compliance penalties.
 Protect Customer Data: A data breach can lead to the exposure of sensitive customer
information, resulting in identity theft, financial loss, and damage to the business's
reputation. Strong security measures can help prevent data breaches and protect customer
data from theft or misuse.
 Reduce Chargebacks: Chargebacks occur when a customer disputes a purchase, often
due to unauthorized transactions or fraud. Secure payment processing can help minimize
the risk of chargebacks and the associated costs, such as fees, lost revenue, and damage
to your merchant account reputation.
3.3.4. Practices for Securing Payments in E-Commerce
Implementing the best practices for securing payments in e-commerce helps businesses comply
with security regulations and reduces the likelihood of security breaches and fraud attempts.
Here are some best practices that e-commerce merchants should consider:
A. Secure Data Storage
To prevent unauthorized access to sensitive data, businesses should ensure that cardholder
information and other sensitive information are stored securely, using encryption, tokenization,
or other data protection mechanisms.
B. Encryption
All sensitive data transmitted over public networks, such as payment details, should be
encrypted using SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) or TLS (Transport Layer Security). This ensures
that attackers cannot easily decipher intercepted data.
C. Strong Authentication and Access Control
Implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA) for all user accounts, limiting access to
sensitive systems, and regularly reviewing access permissions significantly reduces the risk of
unauthorized access.
D. Secure Code Development

20 | P a g e
E-commerce websites and applications should be developed using secure coding practices to
minimize vulnerabilities that attackers can exploit. Regular code reviews and vulnerability
scanning should be conducted to ensure security.
E. System Monitoring
Continuously monitoring network and system activity helps identify suspicious activity or
potential breaches, enabling prompt response to mitigate threats. Log reviews, intrusion
detection systems, and other monitoring tools can be employed.
F. Regular Security Audits
Conducting regular security audits helps identify gaps in security measures and compliance,
providing an opportunity to address them before attackers can exploit them.
Unit Four: Benchmark and Test Performance

4.1. ISP performance during on and off-peak times

4.1.1. Navigating Peak and Off-Peak Hours

In today's tech-driven world, it is crucial to understand how data usage works, especially during
peak and off-peak hours. With the skyrocketing demand for data consumption, it becomes
essential for internet users to optimize their online activities to avoid bottlenecks and
unnecessary costs. Join us as we delve into the intricacies of data usage, providing you with
valuable insights and practical tips on how to navigate peak and off-peak hours with ease.
4.1.2. Importance of Understanding Peak and Off-Peak Hours
Before we delve into how to efficiently manage data usage, it is important to understand the
concept of peak and off-peak hours. Internet service providers often categorize certain times of
the day as peak hours, where network traffic is at its highest due to a surge in user activity.
These peak hours usually coincide with periods of heavy internet usage, such as evenings when
people return from work or school.
4.1.3. Understanding Data Usage and Bandwidth
To effectively navigate peak and off-peak hours, it is essential to understand data usage and
bandwidth. Data usage refers to the amount of data consumed by an internet user. This can
encompass various online activities such as browsing websites, streaming videos, downloading
files, or using applications. It is measured in gigabytes (GB) and is an integral component of
most internet plans.
4.1.4. Optimizing Data Usage during Peak Hours

Now that we understand the basics, let's explore some practical tips to optimize data usage
during peak hours:

 Limit streaming quality: Adjusting the quality settings on streaming platforms such as
Netflix or YouTube can help reduce data consumption. Opting for lower resolutions can

21 | P a g e
 significantly lessen the amount of data used while still ensuring an enjoyable viewing
experience.
 Download content in advance: If you anticipate peak hours and plan to watch or listen
to media, consider downloading it during off-peak hours. This way, you can enjoy your
favorite content without buffering or interruptions when network traffic is high.
 Maintain device updates: Keeping your devices and applications up to date can
contribute to more efficient data usage. Software updates often come with optimizations
that can help streamline data consumption, allowing you to make the most out of your
internet plan.
4.1.5. Mastering Your Data Plan: Maximize Value during Peak and Off-Peak
Times

With more and more people relying on smartphones, tablets, and other connected devices, it's
essential to optimize your data usage and ensure that you get the most out of your plan.
Whether you are a heavy data user or simply want to avoid unnecessary charges, understanding
how to master your data plan will help you save money and have a smoother online experience.
In this article, we will explore different strategies to maximize the value of your data plan during
peak and off-peak times.

I. Track Your Data Usage

The first step to mastering your data plan is to keep a close eye on your data consumption. Most
smartphones provide built-in tools to monitor your data usage, allowing you to track how much
data you've used and which apps are consuming the most. By regularly monitoring your usage,
you can identify any data-hungry applications and take necessary action.

 Use data tracking apps to gain more detailed insights into your data usage.
 Set up data usage alerts to receive notifications when you reach certain thresholds.
 Review your data usage regularly and adjust your habits as needed.
II. Utilize Wi-Fi Networks

Connecting to Wi-Fi networks whenever possible is one of the easiest ways to conserve your
precious mobile data. By using Wi-Fi, you can enjoy faster speeds and avoid using your cellular
data altogether. Take advantage of Wi-Fi networks available at home, work, cafes, or public
places to limit your reliance on the cellular network.

 Ensure you are connected to a trusted and secure Wi-Fi network.

 Turn on Wi-Fi Assist feature on your phone to automatically switch to Wi-Fi when
available.
 Consider using a virtual private network (VPN) when connected to public Wi-Fi
networks to enhance security.

22 | P a g e
 III. Optimize App Settings

Many apps have settings that allow you to control how they consume data. By tweaking these
settings, you can minimize their impact on your data plan.

 Disable auto-play for videos and disable automatic app updates.

 Set up social media apps to refresh content manually instead of automatically.
 Configure email apps to fetch new messages at specific intervals instead of continuously
syncing.
IV. Stream and Download Smartly

Streaming music and videos can quickly eat into your data allowance. However, by making
smart choices, you can still enjoy your favorite content without draining your plan.

 Download music and videos over Wi-Fi for offline consumption.

 Consider using streaming services that offer data-saving modes or lower bitrates.
 Adjust streaming quality settings to a lower resolution if needed.
V. Take Advantage of Off-Peak Times

Off-peak times, typically during the late night or early morning hours, often offer faster and
more stable network speeds. By scheduling your data-intensive activities during these periods,
you can make the most of your data plan without experiencing any slow-downs or congestion.

 Check with your service provider to determine off-peak hours.

 Download large files or perform system updates during off-peak times.
 Utilize cloud storage services to sync and back up your data during off-peak hours.

4.2. Email and Mailing services backup procedures

A backup of a server is often created in order to be able to restore data if the original server
crashes or becomes inaccessible. This is especially important in organizations for legal or
business reasons.
Here are some tips when choosing your e-mail and collaboration platform to create a digital
workplace for your business:

 Pay attention that an integrated backup system is always preferred over third-party
solutions,
 Make sure that you back up all of the important data on a regular basis relying on a real-
time backup plan,
 Off-site backups are a good way to protect your data from natural disasters,
 The amount of time and effort required to implement the backup plan,
 Lastly, if the backup system is optimized to work in your environment for better
performance.

23 | P a g e
 4.3. Services align with business needs

The following are several types of support services that companies can use to maintain their IT
infrastructure and other procedures to increase their effectiveness:
I. Data storage
Many businesses store data and require a place to do so in an easy and effective manner. There
are several data storage services available that assist a company in securely storing data. They
may store this data in cloud services, in-house technology or off-site locations.

II. HR and people management

There are several functions within the human resources and people management field, such as
staffing, job assessment, workforce utilization and analysis of workforce performance. Support
services can help streamline this process by offering the necessary support to complete these
tasks. This frees up time for HR professionals to focus on the tasks that are most important.
III. Computer support
Computer support may be the most common form of support services. Many companies utilize
various technologies to perform tasks, and these technologies require dependability and issue-
free use for successful implementation.
IV. Administration support
Other support services companies often use includes those that help assist in the administrative
process within their organizations. There are several small duties required for these tasks, which
can take up an administrative professional's time.
V. Customer service
Customer service is a popular support service that many organizations rely on to keep their
customers happy. If there aren't enough in-house customer service employees to handle
customer needs, customers may feel as though the company cannot meet their needs. Third-party
customer service support programs make sure clients receive optimal support in a timely
manner.
VI. Web development
Website development and maintenance are important components of support services and help
manage various aspects of web-related tasks, including customer service and inventory
management.
VII. Sales and revenue generation
One way to increase sales and revenue generation is to use support services focused on
increasing brand awareness and loyalty. These services typically involve assisting customers in
determining the help they require. Services may also include assisting customers in finding
products and services that meet their needs and preferences.

24 | P a g e
 4.4. Quaility of Service Delivered

A set of technologies that work on a network to guarantee its ability to dependably run high-
priority applications and traffic under limited network capacity. QoS technologies accomplish
this by providing differentiated handling and capacity allocation to specific flows in network
traffic. This enables the network administrator to assign the order in which packets are handled
and the amount of bandwidth afforded to that application or traffic flow.
Types of Traffic on the Network

To understand QoS, you must understand the traffic types it measures. Measurements of concern
to QoS are:
1. Bandwidth (maximum rate of transfer) — the speed of a link
2. Throughput (actual rate of transfer)
3. Latency (delay) — the amount of time it takes for a packet to traverse the network, from
source to destination
4. Jitter (variance in latency) — when packets don’t arrive in the same order they were sent
QoS is key to:
 Voice and video applications
 Email
 Interactive applications
 Batch applications
 Online purchasing
For example, high-bandwidth, real-time data traffic such as voice over IP (VoIP), video
conferencing and video-on-demand have high sensitivity to latency and jitter. These
applications, with minimum bandwidth requirements and maximum latency limits, are called
“inelastic.”
How to Implement QoS

A successful QoS implementation includes three main stages:

1. Strategically define business objectives to be achieved using QoS.
2. Determine service-level requirements of traffic classes.
3. Design and test QoS policies.

Ongoing service level monitoring, adjustments and tuning of QoS policies should always follow
a successful QoS policy deployment. Business conditions are always changing, so organizations
must adapt the QoS deployment cycle accordingly. This can include:

 Starting the QoS deployment cycle over

 Redefining objectives
 Testing and tuning designs

25 | P a g e
 Deployment of new designs
 Monitoring

26 | P a g e