If you are in the market for a new virtual-based business venture, it is likely that you have stumbled across the concept of reseller hosting. Reseller hosting can be a lucrative business if done correctly, which makes it an appealing side project. So, what is reseller hosting all about, and how does one get into it?
What is Reseller Hosting?
To start off, let’s talk about web hosting. Web hosting is when a service provider ‘hosts’ a company’s website on the internet. The web hosting provider is providing the technology, storage space, and software that is needed to help the company get online.
Reseller hosting is a form of web hosting. This is when a business purchases server space and resources from the web hosting provider. These resources include disk space, RAM memory, and bandwidth. After that, the business will be reselling a portion of their server and resources to third-party clients. Typically, these are sold in packages that contain a certain amount of resources depending on the desired price point.
Shared vs. Reseller Hosting
A common question that typically arises is relating to the concept of shared vs. reseller hosting. The two concepts can seem similar at first, but they are quite different. A shared hosting plan has one intended user. The user is purchasing space on the hosting provider’s server for their own use. There are multiple users on the same server, and they are all sharing resources. With shared hosting, there are no selling resources to third parties as there is with reseller hosting.
The main difference between the two is that shared hosting is meant to be used by one owner. It has one cPanel and can have an unlimited number of domains. With a shared hosting plan, there is no reselling allowed. Reseller hosting has between 10 to 250 different cPanel accounts, with a domain name for each account.
Steps to Get Started – Choose Web Hosting Partner
One of the most important steps to get you started on your reseller hosting business is to choose a provider. You will need to work with someone that you trust wholeheartedly, and also someone that offers the resources your clients are looking for. Do some research beforehand to find out what it is that your clients are expecting to receive from you. Some popular features that clients desire include:
- Automatic data backup
- Good virtual security
- Unlimited cPanel licenses
- Free website migrations
If your host offers services like these, your clients will be more inclined to purchase a package from you. It is important to be able to deliver quality service to your clients, as it is always your reputation that is on the line.
Develop your Customer Service Skills
There is a lot of competition in the world of web hosting. If you are not there to deliver fast and successful results to your clients, they will simply walk away. Having 24/7 customer service support for your reseller hosting business is essential in order for you to succeed. You will also need a way for clients to have a quick way to search for answers without having to call you.
One strategy that you could implement is creating a commonly asked questions and answers forum on your website for customers to browse through. You could also create a live chat channel or set up a dedicated email address for hosting questions. If you find that you are getting stretched out too thin, you may need to consider hiring an employee to handle the customer service aspect for you. Do whatever you can to ensure that the customer is not left waiting hours for a response to a simple question.
Get the Word Out
The next step that you need to do is let clients know about you. Inform them that your new business is up and running and you are looking for work. If you have an existing website, you can simply advertise on there. Strategically place eye-catching graphics in a way to let clients know that you are now offering reseller hosting services.
Another thing that you could do is send out marketing emails. If you already have a client list, this is a simple process. All you have to do is outline the details of your service and make it clear why your clients should stick with you. If you do not have an existing client contact list, now is the time to make one. Reaching out via LinkedIn might help you bring in some interest in your new service.
Conclusion
Whether you are familiar with the world of web hosting, or you have just recently discovered it, reseller hosting could be a great business for you. Having some knowledge about the industry is helpful, but you could teach yourself the basics or enroll in a class. Once you are set up with a few regular clients, you will be well on your way to owning a successful business!
