What to Consider when Selecting a Control Panel
What is it that sells a web hosting package? The answer is simple - features. One of the most important features of all is the control panel. Every web host has their own preference when it comes to control panels. What is key is finding one that suits you best? Let us take a closer look at the unique features to the most commonly utilized control panels.
A control panel is a program that provides a GUI (Graphical User Interface) to enables quick and easy access to the features of your website. Many of them grant access to critical functions such email configurations, website statistics, database management, server log views and much more. While there are many control panels available, this article will focus on the big four: cPanel, Plesk, Ensim and vDeck. Almost all shared hosting providers offer one of these four control panels.
cPanel
cPanel is the most widely used control panel application on the market. Several web hosts implement this control panel, with the exception of those looking to cut cost. Though more expensive, cPanel is highly effective as it allows customization of all available features and add-on modules provided by the web host. Additionally, cPanel includes a skin feature preferred by hosts and users, allowing them to customize the overall appearance of the control panel.
Recent versions of cPanel have become more user-friendly as complexity was an issue with previous programs. While this control panel will provide the functionality to make your site stand out, you can save money by residing with a web host using a more affordable solution such as Plesk, Ensim or vDeck. You should also take note that cPanel may include more bugs than other solutions.
Plesk
Plesk is another control panel geared towards the budgeting webmaster. This program has established a reputation for it’s user-friendliness and stability. This comes in handy when tending to important tasks that can’t afford to be interrupted. The downside of Plesk is that it lacks various features when compared to other control panel solutions. If your website involves E-commerce and requires several add-on modules, cPanel maybe a better option.
Ensim
The Ensim control panel is better suited for the webmaster on a strict budget. This program is known to contain less bugs than cPanel but isn’t as easy to use for beginners. If you do take interest in a web host using the Ensim control panel, be sure to compare it with the cost of a host offering cPanel as there should be a noticeable difference.
vDeck
vDeck will soon be releasing it’s third edition and is slowing catching on as a reliable control panel. Many users deem this program as the perfect alternative to solutions like cPanel and Plesk. Some of its features include pre-installed professionally designed templates, a comprehensive web statistics program, a content management function and various advertising services. vDeck is more in-depth and has more of professional feel than cPanel as it offers a complete website management system for both small and large businesses. While vDeck is better suited for experts opposed to beginners just starting out with their first site, version 2 was more intuitive and version 3 promises to be even easier to use.
Whether it’s cPanel, Plesk, Ensim or vDeck, all of these control panels will provide the tools needed to make your website flourish. The issues with these solutions boil down to price and ease of use. Before purchasing a web hosting service, inquire within the provider to learn exactly what control panel they offer.
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