Tag Archives: Domain Names

Fasthosts Launches 32 Core Dedicated Server

Fasthosts Internet Ltd, a leading web hosting provider, has launched a powerful new, high quality server to further bolster the Fasthosts Dedicated Server range. The new Fasthosts DS1200 server boasts Solid State Drives (SSD) and 2 x 2TB of storage, providing faster access speed, greater resilience, supreme reliability and amps of storage. The DS1200 can be run via a choice of operating systems including the latest CentOS 6 operating system, includes the Plesk 10 control panel, and features a generous allowance of storage space RAM with RAID1 protection, offering better security and performance for business users.

Dedicated Servers are the ideal solution for IT professionals and businesses that require robust server operations for applications and data storage without the capital expenditure or the physical space required for running hardware 24/7 on their premises. Fasthosts’ Dedicated Servers, currently with 50 per cent off for 3 months, offer enterprises a powerful and secure server platform and far greater flexibility than on-premise solutions.

The flagship DS1200 enables businesses to leverage a best in-class specification and performance without large CAPEX commitment. The server uses 2 x 2.4GHz AMD OpteronTM 16-core processors to deliver powerful, energy-efficient performance, meaning intensive programs can be run simultaneously without the need to slow down. Users enjoy guaranteed access to unlimited bandwidth, and retain complete hands-on (KVM) remote control of their server at all times. The DS1200 guarantees 99.99% network uptime, perfect for multiple complex calculations or to host large websites, mail or media, ensuring you and your customers get the best performance.

The Fasthosts DS1200 Dedicated Server solution also benefits from massive 64GB RAM, 2 x 120GB RAID 1 SSD hard-disk drives and 2 x 2TB RAID 1 SATA hard-disk drives.

Fasthosts also includes free SSL certificates for the first year and Plesk 10 can be added for a small monthly fee. Currently, all Fasthosts Windows Dedicated Servers are provided with 50GB of free Online Backup. For those not sure which specification would best fit their business needs, the Fasthosts website provides a guide to servers that highlights the features specifically suited to business tasks.

Especially important for business users, all data is hosted in Fasthosts’ highly secure state-of-the-art UK data centres, and receives Fasthosts’ unlimited bandwidth and 100Mbps high-speed virtual data pipe. Every Fasthosts server is maintained with the latest operating system updates to maximise efficiency and security. Technical support is provided 24/7 from the UK via the phone or online.

Claire Lewis, Marketing Director, Fasthosts Internet Ltd, said: “Our new 32 core server is an excellent opportunity to access huge processor power on an affordable basis. We are confident that even the most demanding professional users will be impressed with the performance and responsiveness. Our continued investment to build world-class UK-based infrastructure means Fasthosts servers continue to be a sound proposition for many businesses.”

As a leading web hosting provider, and Technology Sponsor of The Great Exhibition 2012, Fasthosts offers a comprehensive range of web services including domain name registrations, servers, online backup solutions, reseller web hosting and feature-rich broadband packages. Fasthosts is well placed to deliver a high quality service.

Full details can be found at www.fasthosts.co.uk.

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Fasthosts Reveals Britons Not Considering How Mobile Working Can Help A New Business

Fasthosts has revealed that the majority of Britons do not consider how technology could shape a work/life balance when considering whether or not to launch their own business.

The survey of 1500 UK adults conducted by the web hosting company found that only 14 per cent would consider the impact of technology such as smartphones, notepads and Internet applications, before concluding whether or not to launch a business. Poor economic factors and fear of losing money remain the primary reasons for reluctance to start a new project. Fasthosts advises budding entrepreneurs to speak to technology providers from the very outset, as web-based tools and ecommerce can often enable far more flexible working than many realise.

As the UK economy slowly returns to growth, Fasthosts ‘Home Business Survey’* finds that there may be thousands of entrepreneurs currently ‘sitting on the fence’ over whether to launch their own business. The good news is that the vast majority of Britons (72 per cent) would consider or have considered having their own business project. However, the data suggests that a number may not take the plunge because they unaware of how much technology can help to design and manage their work.

When asked about the main factors for consideration in whether or not to launch a business project, only 14 per cent would look into what impact technology could make on their work patterns. This is despite 1 in 4 people having doubts about their ability to cope with running a business effectively. In scoping a business idea, the most popular groups to consult for strategic advice are banks (35 per cent), potential clients (31 per cent), stock suppliers (27 per cent) and then friends and family (25 per cent).

Stephen Holford, Marketing Director, Fasthosts Internet Ltd, commented: “It is vital for anybody thinking of starting their own business to know what is technologically possible from the very start. Selling goods and even services online is often incorrectly regarded as beyond the reach of non-technical people. Family responsibilities and financial aspects are always pressures that need to be considered. However, the huge range of Internet-based tools available for mobile working means that work patterns can be far more flexible and mobile than ever before. It is vital that before deciding if a start-up project is achievable, one looks carefully at what technology is available to help.”

Of course, the decision to launch a business project should never be taken lightly. The most common factors deterring people at this time are primarily financial ones. The unattractive economic climate is most on people’s minds (36 per cent), as well as fear of losing capital (35 per cent), a lack of funding (25 per cent) and shortfalls in business knowledge (18 per cent).

Over the coming months, Fasthosts’ ‘Work Better Online’ campaign will provide information and helpful tips on working practices, tools and technologies that can help entrepreneurs to juggle a fledgling business alongside their lives. Topics will include time management, workspace design, meetings, office dynamics, productivity, communication, motivation and real life case studies discussed.

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FastVision Web Hosting Success

FastVision the UK based hosting company in Cheltenham has been growing rapidly making it one of the fastest growing hosting companies in the UK. In its 10th year of Business FastVision has now not only won hosting awards but also the hearts of the customers. The great lengths that the customer service team and technical support guys have gone to is clear as FastVision has glowing reviews all over the internet when other Hosting providers seem to be struggling with negative reviews and even hate sites setup informing potential new customers about terrible experiences.

As with all business with company growth the most important factor of success is planning ahead and ensuring that the resources are available before the growth of clients and in the hosting environment this is far more important to get right than any other business.

Investment into hardware ensuring that the servers are running fast and load balancing clients across servers to keep the servers running optimal. Web services can be difficult to manage if the process is not controlled due to the nature of hosting as individuals or companies using shared hosting will be in control of uploading files that can potentially have problems. This is where most hosting companies fall over with failures to other clients due to one client doing something wrong.

Speaking with the Director of FastVision, he explained how his passion for success is fuelled by the glowing reviews and all the investment into new hardware, bespoke hosting software and data centre facilities has been a major part of the success story of FastVision as a business. He also explained that FastVision on a daily basis has people moving from other hosting providers to the FastVision network when the drop off of clients from FastVision is minimal and this gives a good indication that we are doing something right.

Customer service is something that every hosting company should invest in and yet the competitors appear to focus less on this, but this lack of customer care has helped with FastVision’s growth.

The FastVision network is one of the fastest hosting networks available in the shared and business hosting areas and this is something that FastVision work very hard to get right. The pricing structure is also one of the most competitive available with starter hosting at only £1.49 per month and this hosting package allows you to host unlimited websites within a single account, something no other hosting company can compete with.

The high end Business hosting is one of FastVision most popular accounts offer everything from 100,000 MB of web space and 200 IMAP / POP mail boxes with 400,000 MB of space for emails, 15 x MySQL Databases with 15,000 MB of storage space and to top it off the business hosting also comes with a FREE 2048 bit SSL certificate and all this for only £9.99 a month.

Dedicated server hosting and cloud hosting is something that FastVision are now pushing hard and it seems again that they have ticked all the boxes and the planning for the services before going live will make this a massive success.

For more information about the FastVision hosting services visit fastvision.com/Hosting.fvnx

FastVision are also starting to dominate the domain registrations of .co.uk domain names due to being selling domain names at the lowest prices available on the internet.

The domain name search checker page offers at a quick glance a list of all types of domains avaialble and registered.

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Fasthosts Urges Small Firms To Work More Closely With Their Tech Suppliers

Fasthosts has revealed that 48 per cent of firms regularly make substantial purchases of new technology without being certain they fully need them.

According to the new research from the UK web hosting provider, data from 788 UK small firms* found a huge divide in terms of success with using technology in the workplace. For 1 in 3 firms, implementing new business technology such as smartphones, notepads and computer software, has failed to improve efficiencies. Only 1 in 4 SMEs seeks advice from an IT professional. Furthermore, only 1 in 10 firms disappointed with a piece of technology has gone back to their technology supplier or IT advisor to ask for help. The study concludes that it is vital for businesses to plan technology investments properly, working with suppliers to ensure the correct systems are purchased to address the required needs. Firms can save money by evaluating their needs earlier in the process.

Fasthosts’ ‘Business Technology Audit’ found that too many firms today struggle with the way they buy and use technology for their work. Whilst the vast majority are upbeat about technology, many find success with new technology items to be rather hit-or-miss. A total of 35 per cent admit that their latest technology purchases have either led them to work longer hours or failed to impact their work efficiencies. Furthermore, only 41 per cent of respondents believe that staff find using technology to be enjoyable, and 1 in 5 firms employ staff who are frightened of receiving new technology. Some 48 per cent have indeed achieved more efficient or ‘smarter working’ through their use of technology.

Stephen Holford, Marketing Director, Fasthosts Internet Ltd, commented: “Busy business owners can struggle to find the time and advice needed to ensure all technology investments are well placed. A lacks approach to researching technology in relation to their needs can lead firms to waste money on solutions that simply do not perform”.

Alarmingly, only 11 per cent of UK small firms review whether a technology has worked well after every new piece is introduced. Only 1 in 10 disappointed with the impact a technology has made, has addressed this with either the supplier or IT advisor who provided it. Surprisingly, only 1 in 4 firms seek the advice of an IT professional before they make substantial investments in technology, a worrying trend which shows businesses should work with their suppliers before purchase to ensure they buy the right solution.

Holford added: “It is vital to plan technology investments properly, working with suppliers to ensure the correct systems are purchased to address the required needs. Knowledge is often the key, so contact suppliers to ask for advice, guidelines, case studies or examples of best-practice usage before an investment and on an on-going basis”.

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Fasthosts Voted ‘Best Web Host’

Fasthosts Internet Ltd, a leading web hosting provider, has announced that it has won ‘Best Web Host’ in the Computer Shopper Magazine Awards 2011. Fasthosts was chosen from a fiercely competitive market as the best UK provider of web hosting. The Award was secured entirely on votes cast by the readers of Computer Shopper magazine and expertreviews.co.uk. Fasthosts shook-off aggressive efforts from a number of hosts and ISPs.

Fasthosts has continued to launch innovative products during the past year such a Fasthosts Online Backup. The scope of Fasthosts’ products and services is a reflection of how vital the Web now is for businesses and individuals alike. Since 1999, Fasthosts has been at the forefront of developing powerful but intuitive and affordable hosted solutions for capitalizing on the Web.

Stephen Holford, Marketing Director, Fasthosts Internet, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have been voted ‘Best Web Host’ in these popular awards. We are most pleased that it has been decided solely by the public. There are a number of strong providers in the UK web hosting market, which makes the award even more pleasing. Fasthosts is privileged to have shared in the online success of hundreds of thousands of its customers.”

“Fasthosts was the clear favourite web hosting provider in the Computer Shopper and Expert Reviews Reader Awards Survey 2011. More readers were satisfied with Fasthosts’ service than that of any other provider,” commented Chris Finnamore, Reviews Editor of Computer Shopper Magazine.

As well as packages for creating a web presence, such as domain names, shared and dedicated hosting, Fasthosts now delivers hosted solutions for flexible online business including virtual servers, online storage and back-up, and tools for ecommerce, online marketing and collaboration.

(DCoD) service, was recognised for providing outstanding virtualised solutions and service. The award further recognises Fasthosts’ ability to address end customers’ business challenges and utilise technology innovation to address these. The company has also won the Microsoft Hyper-V Cloud Partner Award 2011.

Holford added: “In today’s digital climate, providers like Fasthosts have an important part to play in bringing technologies enjoyed by large enterprises to within the grasp of every computer user. We will continue to invest heavily and leverage our technical experience to achieve this.”

As a leading web hosting provider, and Technology Sponsor of The Great Exhibition 2012, Fasthosts offers a comprehensive range of web solutions including domain name registrations, web hosting, dedicated and virtual servers, email hosting, secure online storage and back-up, online payment services, reseller hosting and feature-rich broadband packages. Fasthosts is well placed to deliver a high quality service.

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Fasthosts Warns Small Firms Not To Spam Their Customers

Fasthosts Internet Ltd, a leading web hosting provider, has warned UK businesses not to spam their customers with unsolicited newsletters and marketing emails.

Over the past year, the company has seen an 88 per cent rise in the number of spam reports it has received, most commonly where consumers have reported business customers for allegedly sending spam to them. The data lends weight to the theory that the challenging economy and increasingly competitive online marketplace has perhaps led more small firms to cut corners with their email communication. The company recommends that small companies take necessary steps to ensure that emails are only sent to the right recipients who have opted-in to receive them.

As more UK firms are adopting email marketing as a valuable sales and communication channel, it would appear that the problem of business-related spam is escalating. According to Fasthosts, from June 2010 to June 2011 the company has received 88 per cent more reports from the public regarding genuine businesses who they believe have sent them unsolicited and unwanted emails. A proportion of cases required investigation and/or action by the provider such as a warning or locking of the relevant email account. In most cases, Fasthosts needed only to provide best practice email advice to the relevant business.

Stephen Holford, Marketing Director, Fasthosts Internet, said: “In a tough economy, small businesses may be tempted to be more aggressive with the frequency of mailings, or begin to take for granted their right to email a contact base. Every firm must respect the value that consumers place on their Inbox, and take the proper measures to ensure they use email professionally and ethically.”

Internet Psychologist Graham Jones said: “Unwanted email is a major issue which causes frustration, annoyance and stress. If a business emails people without paying proper attention to opt-in systems they can expect increased negativity from their customers and their prospects. And with the ease with which people can complain about companies on social networks, there is the obvious potential for reputational damage too.”

Jones added: “When people are asked to define spam they simply talk about emails they did not request – no matter who those messages come from. Many businesses think they are merely doing ’email marketing’ but their customers actually think they are spamming. There is a clear difference in thinking between many businesses and their customers – and that is bad for reputation and revenue.”

Whilst still rare, it is possible for businesses to become involved in the distribution of spam without even realising. Problems can arise as a result of their email becoming compromised locally, commonly through a virus or Trojan on their hardware such as a PC. It is vital that all businesses they keep mailboxes secure and regularly update passwords to minimise the risk of exploitation of their domain or mail servers.

Holford added: “Whilst spam is not new, the damage that it can do to business reputation and customer loyalty should definitely be cause for thought. The more responsibility a company shows towards their use of email, the more credible and rewarding email marketing will become as a channel.”

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Fasthosts Launches New Business Broadband Packages

Fasthosts Internet Ltd, a leading web hosting and Internet services provider, has announced a brand new range of ADSL packages specifically designed for business needs. The Fasthosts Broadband range is now faster and more feature-packed, with a 24Mb entry-level package. A new fibre optic package offers up to 40Mb downloads, over 7 times faster than the UK average, enabling businesses to increase productivity and fully benefit from hosted services and cloud computing.

The Fasthosts Business Broadband range now comprises: the entry-level ADSL Lite (with 20GB monthly usage), alongside unlimited plans ADSL Premium, and ADSL 2 Plus both featuring a download speed of up to 24Mb. Furthermore, Fasthosts’ new unlimited flagship VDSL Premium package uses fibre optic technology to deliver up to a massive 40Mb download connection, and up to 10Mb upload speeds. Packages benefit from free set-up, and up to 2 static IP addresses.

Fasthosts Business Broadband is equipped to deliver business users consistently high speed connections and value for money. With unlimited usage, businesses can download whatever they need to at all times, without the need to restrict users. Up to 40Mb speeds better equip firms to efficiently perform data intensive tasks such as sending and receiving large documents, graphics or media files, video conferencing or using web-based software. Faster ADSL can bring to life more flexible working with quicker VPN access to internal systems. By using the inclusive IP addresses, businesses can reduce their communications costs with IP and video calling.

Steve Holford, marketing director, Fasthosts Internet Ltd., said: “Many businesses prefer an all-in-one approach to buying their Internet services. For some, that means making-do with either sub-standard hosting or ADSL bolted-on by their ISP. With Fasthosts firms can benefit from truly business-class broadband alongside high performance and award-winning UK hosting services”.

Fasthosts provides UK-based business broadband experts, on hand to provide free support by telephone or online.

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Fasthosts Launches New Mobile Website Builder

Fasthosts Internet Ltd, a leading web hosting provider, has announced a brand new mobile website builder for its hosting customers. The service enables any level of user to build a mobile compatible website in minutes.

The mobile website builder application can detect mobile visitors and provides them the choice of whether to view a mobile-friendly website or full website version. By catering for mobile users, a business can tap into additional online revenues and ensure greater customer retention and recommendation.

More Britons are browsing the web on the go with devices such as the iPhone, BlackBerry or Android phone. In order to help website owners benefit from this trend, Fasthosts has partnered with goMobi to offer an easy to use and speedy way to create websites especially designed for mobile devices. The smaller screen, touch functionality and larger number of operating systems and browsers for mobile devices often makes it necessary to adapt the design of websites. goMobi comprises a convenient method of ensuring that a business website is available and providing mobile visitors with fast access to the key information they need when mobile surfing.

Compatible with any Fasthosts domain name, goMobi allows customers to build a website in minutes using its easy Setup Assistant. The user simply inserts their company details, uploads a logo and designs their website functionality by selecting options from a broad range of popular features. Features for engaging with mobile visitors include product section, photos and blog. goMobi also includes an extensive set of tools to help firms convert website visits into sales including call-me-back, request a reservation, online coupons and tell-a-friend.

Steve Holford, marketing director, Fasthosts Internet Ltd., said: “Many websites simply do not perform as they should for Smartphone users. goMobi is a highly convenient way to ensure that your website is technically compatible for every type of audience. With goMobi, your website will load swiftly, include vital information and create an attractive and professional image for your business”.

goMobi also includes a Search Engine Optimisation tool for increasing online visibility, and a Traffic Statistics feature for measuring web success and refining the web design. The builder also includes a way to incorporate third party advertisements, and allows easy connection of a website to all the important social networks. goMobi is easily integrated within Fasthosts shared web hosting.

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Fasthosts Discovers Firms At Risk From Over-Reliance On External Web Professionals

A new Fasthosts Internet Ltd survey* has revealed that British firms may be placing themselves at risk through an over-reliance on IT or web consultants who look after their website.

The study* found that many firms do not have simple arrangements in place to retain basic control or in some cases even legal ownership of their website and domains.

Ever broadening consumer expectations for the web has led more firms than ever (43%) to opt for using the services of skilled web professionals to help create and maintain their website. 92% of these companies rate their external web consultants positively, with 38% reporting a ‘good’ return on investment. However, the Fasthosts ‘SME & the Web’ study found that many UK companies may be risking revenue and reputation as a result of weaknesses in their workflows with such third parties.

Issues can occasionally arise between companies and external web partners. During the past 2 years, 1 in 4 firms paying for an external web professional have had their website off-line as a result of a problem related to the other party. 1 in 5 businesses incurred delays to projects caused by their external partner, and 17% reported losses of both staff time and sales revenue over £1000 as a result. For 14% of respondents, an external advisor or agency had gone out of business.

A large number of small companies are failing to take basic steps to safeguard the continuity and protection of their web presence. In the event of an issue with their external partner, 56% of firms have no way of making any changes or additions to their website themselves and 80% have no facility for switching their website on/off independently. For these businesses, the link to their external web professional is a single point of failure in their online presence. Whilst UK firms invest millions in professional web design each year, 70% of those using a web designer do not retain a back-up copy of their website themselves.

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Easyspace Launches One Click Installs For Its Web Hosting Packages

Easyspace, one of UKs leading providers of domain names and web hosting services, has announced the launch of One-Click install SaaS Applications for its range of web hosting packages.

Having recently launched similar applications for its range of Virtual Servers, Easyspace has now integrated an easy-to-use interface into its customer control panel allowing customers to install and run over 50 of the Internet’s most popular SaaS applications through their own web hosting package.

Applications such as WordPress for blogging, OS Commerce and Cube Cart for eCommerce and Joomla, Drupal and Mambo for Content Management are just some of the range of applications available to web hosting customers as part of this development.

“We recently launched similar applications for our Virtual Server products, but the larger development has been in creating an easy-to-install application system for our shared web hosting environment.” comments Errol Vanderhorst, Managing Director at Easyspace.

“SaaS applications such as WordPress, Joomla and Cube Cart are allowing smaller business to grow more rapidly without the fully customised, and expensive, efforts once required to generate such applications. Our web hosting customers can now install fully functioning Content Management Systems, high end eCommerce solutions and various other applications such as forums, surveys, guest books and image galleries, all with just a few clicks.”

Allowing customers to grow their businesses online without unnecessary spend has been a focal point of the Easyspace web hosting packages for some time. With free email and a free domain name already included in all packages, and a Pic n Mix package allowing customers to choose the specification of their hosting package – and therefore the cost of their package – the new SaaS integration allows customers significantly more opportunity for growth online.

Errol continued “Most hosting companies, like Easyspace, offer high levels of disk space and bandwidth with their web hosting packages. We feel that the real benefit to customers is not in those specifications, but rather it’s in how those hosting packages can help grow a customers business. With access to online shops, content management systems, blogging software and more, there is now really very little a customer cannot do with an Easyspace web hosting package.”

To find out more about this new feature please visit http://blog.easyspace.com/2009/12/21/easyspace-launches-one-click-installs-for-its-web-hosting-packages/

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Report Says Small Firms Floored By Basic Web Errors

Streamline.net web hosting research finds the majority of consumers using SME websites in the past year experienced usability faults.

The Streamline.net study of 1700 consumers found that 83% faced faults including unfinished web pages, broken URLs and an out-dated design. A further survey of 450 UK firms revealed that whilst half consider their website to look ‘professional’, 1 in 3 owners admit that they are guilty of ‘neglecting’ their sites. There is also a worrying discrepancy between where consumers wish to find web addresses, and where companies are displaying them. For example, 48% of firms still do not make any efforts to optimise their URL on search engines. Whilst 1 in 5 consumers took a web address from the side of a small company’s vehicle, only 10% of small firms currently display theirs in this way.

The data from Streamline.net showed that many SMEs are alienating web users through simple web errors. 76% of consumers have now used the website of a small business. Whilst 47% of consumers consider their experiences of such sites to be overall ‘good’, a further 1 in 4 Britons conclude such websites to be ‘barely usable’. In the past year, 83% of online consumers found faults on more than one occasion. Web errors reported included unfinished web pages (54%), broken URLs (52%), outdated email addresses (50%), and missing contact details (31%).

Top design gripe with SME websites is an outdated website design, faced by one third of users in the past year. 1 in 5 online consumers have encountered superfluous descriptions of products and services. 20% have been confused by the use of generic corporate images that bear no relation to specific company’s.

The findings are in contrast to another survey of 450 small firms where 76% felt confident that the language on their website could in no way be perceived negatively, and 84% saw the images on their website as fit for purpose.

Steve Holford, Marketing Director at Streamline.net, said, “As with many areas of business, if the basics of a website are not sound, customers will be deterred from purchasing”.

Almost half of companies (48%) made no attempt at optimise their position on search engines, when 77% of consumers call upon these. Many enterprises are prioritising the display of their URL in places unpopular with online consumers. 43% of companies publish their web address on industry websites whilst only 15% of consumers use this source. Remarkably, only 9% display their web address on signage or windows of their premises, when 1 in 5 Britons have made use of a domain name taken from here in the past year.

Holford added, “Every opportunity to capture online custom must be seized upon, which means promoting a web address in every possible environment – online and off-line”.

Streamline.net provides a comprehensive range of domain registrations. Users can even try free web hosting for 3 months with Streamline.net.

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Technology Adoption Fuels Recovery Tipping Point For UK SMEs

According to research from BT Business, supported by the Design Council and Prince’s Trust, small businesses at the forefront of technology adoption have been the least impacted by the recession, with those most reluctant to bring in new technology suffering the most. Companies with a positive attitude to technology adoption had a 69% better than average experience of the recession, whereas technology laggards suffered a 34% worse recession experience than the average.

The survey was conducted by Vanson Bourne on behalf of BT Business and included responses from more than 7,200 small businesses across the UK.

The 2009 Business Pulse report is the UK’s largest survey of SMEs this year. The survey shows widespread recognition of the importance of technology in reducing costs and increasing efficiency and competitiveness. 30% of businesses said that they have saved money through using technology, 32% use technology to network and obtain advice and 28% have found more customers through its use. Nearly one in five cited the use of technology to support flexible working as having one of the most significant impacts on how they have managed the recession.

The Business Pulse survey identified the positive steps firms have taken to manage the downturn. Nearly twice as many technology innovators have seen an increase in turnover of 10+% compared to those small businesses reluctant to embrace new technology, the majority of which have seen their turnover decrease since the recession began.

Mick Hegarty, strategy director, BT Business said: “The small business community has fought bravely to survive the downturn. Our findings show that many small businesses believe we are now at a tipping point with a recovery almost upon us. We can also see that now more than ever technology has a critical role to play in the future success of these businesses, helping them to find new customers, market themselves more effectively and reduce costs. Investing in better technology is emerging as a measure of success in the future for many businesses.”

In terms of the technologies having the biggest impact, 61% said faster broadband speeds have had a positive impact on their business. Better web sites, better e-commerce and mobile devices were also particularly beneficial. More than 1 in 10 small businesses are looking for more advice and support on using technology to manage their business.

Smaller organisations are also increasingly turning to social media to improve the way they operate with one in five respondents turning to support forums, Twitter and blogs to market their business and attract and retain customers.

Lord Digby Jones, said, “The Business Pulse highlights that optimism is on the rise. Equipping firms with the right technology and support will help tip the economy from recession onto the road to recovery in 2010.”

Full findings of the Business Pulse will be revealed in Small Business Week 2009 and debated by a business leadership panel including business experts Peter Jones and Lord Digby Jones at the launch.

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Fasthosts and Microsoft launch WebsiteSpark

Fasthosts Internet Ltd, a leading web hosting provider, has announced its work with Microsoft to promote the new Microsoft WebsiteSpark program for web professionals. The initiative assists smaller web design and development companies in launching or growing their business by providing better access to the Microsoft web platform. The scheme delivers free Microsoft Server OS, free licenses for Microsoft Expression and Visual Studio software, as well as training and access to MSDN newsgroups.

Eligible Fasthosts customers can save over £240 a year in server licensing costs as well as valuable software licences direct from Microsoft. The scheme is an example of how businesses can gain significantly from discussing their technical requirements and business needs with Fasthosts. Fasthosts has been selected by Microsoft to promote the program benefits and guide eligible Windows Server customers through enrolment.

The Microsoft WebsiteSpark program offers new support for web design and development agencies with up to 10 employees. Eligible Fasthosts customers gain an immediate financial benefit – saving £240 per year with a free Windows Server license and saving even more with a free MSSQL license. Upon enrolment, members gain access to free Windows Expression Studio 2 (1 user license), Expression Web 2 (2 user licenses), Visual Studio 2008 Professional Edition (3 user licenses) and DotNetPanel control panel.

A great number of professionals and enterprises can achieve cost savings by discussing their server and software needs with a long-standing expert like Fasthosts. The company’s advisers are trained to identify and leverage the efficiencies that hosted technologies can deliver. By working-through requirements with Fasthosts, synergies between software and hardware can often be identified.

Steve Holford, CMO Fasthosts Internet Ltd., said: “WebsiteSpark is an excellent opportunity for smaller web agencies. It delivers exactly what they need most – free tools and practical help. As hosting partner to thousands of web pros, Fasthosts is well qualified to advise participants on how to apply Windows hardware and development tools to best effect.”

Simon Pryce, Director of Skylight Media, is a Fasthosts customer who enrolled in the WebsiteSpark program to help boost the web design side of the business. Pryce commented: “We had discovered WebsiteSpark through our business network, and our successful enrolment in the scheme led to us setting up additional dedicated servers with Fasthosts at the same time. The WebsiteSpark scheme is an ideal way for us to update our use of Windows Server technology, enabling us to save a significant sum of money on license fees. We were also delighted to find during our consultation with the ever-reliable Fasthosts, that these new server resources will save us money too, so we’re very pleased all round.”

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Report Says That Firms Are Not Measuring If Their Website Is Working

Fasthosts, a leading web hosting provider and domain name registrar, reports that 43 per cent of UK companies admit that they have no quantifiable method of measuring whether their website is effective, according to recently released research released.

The study of 430 UK firms (431 UK businesses with a website surveyed via electronic feedback form) by Fasthosts found that whilst the average business has published a website for 3-4 years, a huge number of businesses have no numerical grasp on how well their website is performing, or whether it is leading to sales. One in four owners do not believe their website has potential as a sales channel. A remarkable 77 per cent of firms fail to measure any type of ‘return on investment’ for their websites, and 1 in 3 owners (34 per cent) admit that they have never considered checking the popularity or effectiveness of their website. The research suggests that many companies are failing to analyse and optimise online as diligently as they do other areas of their operation.

Whilst studies show that the majority of business owners today realise the importance of having a presence on the Internet, it appears that a great many do no more than publish their website. Fasthosts’ survey of 430 small local businesses using a website, found that over 40 per cent currently do not use data (such as a graphical web statistics tool to assess whether their website is working to support their business goals. During the first half of 2009, the vast majority of SMEs (83 per cent) have not analysed their websites performance against their business plan.

Despite half of businesses feeling happy with their websites and 43 per cent viewing these as integral to their marketing efforts, it would appear that a great many firms simply do not know whether their website is making the right impact. Only 57 per cent of firms do monitor their website performance by checking an overall traffic volume statistic for their homepage. However, only 40 per cent currently analyse where their website visitors are being referred from, an essential element of effective online marketing. Furthermore, only 33 per cent of owners who do measure their website look at the click-through rates to individual sections of the site.

It is perhaps unsurprising over three quarters of businesses questioned (77 per cent) make no assessment of ‘return on investment’ for their websites. Only 11 per cent of those surveyed, judged the effectiveness of their website in terms of ‘clicks vs. sales’ or ‘web cost per order’. Worryingly, the research would suggest that for a significant number of companies, expectations for their website are rather low. 1 in 4 owners (23 per cent) still do not believe their website has potential to be a sales channel.

However, nowadays easy-to-use tools are available for any business owner to evaluate the effectiveness of their website themselves. For example, Fasthosts provides its hosting customers with a free MatrixStats tool, a graphical web statistics tool that provides an instant snapshot of how well websites and domains are performing.

Steve Holford, CMO Fasthosts Internet Ltd., said: “By taking note of their website statistics and making necessary changes, many companies we work with enjoy a real fiscal impact.”

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BT Business And Google Today Announced An Agreement To Offer Digital Marketing Services To Small Businesses

The alliance will involve BT Business becoming a Google AdWords™ Authorised Reseller. Small businesses can now access Google’s base of millions of UK users and receive professional, full-service AdWords account management, from account setup and activation to ongoing campaign monitoring and optimisation, through BT Business.

More than one million businesses already served by BT Business, including the 350,000 members of BT Tradespace, will benefit from the agreement.

“Small businesses are looking to the internet to compete and grow in these tough economic times,” said Bill Murphy, managing director at BT Business. “Our own research across 700,000 small business websites shows that the majority need help to optimise search and effectively use search engine marketing. They don’t often have the skills internally to manage this and need affordable services and support. Working with Google AdWords will enable us to help smaller companies promote themselves and engage with customers, partners and suppliers online as well as larger businesses.”

The addition of the Google AdWords online advertising platform means BT Business can now offer customers a complete range of digital marketing services to help them promote their businesses effectively on the Web. From setting up a website and managing an online marketing campaign to ensuring they can effectively extend their business relationships through customer management tools and business social networking profiles such as BT Tradespace and other business applications.

Matt Brittin, Managing Director at Google UK & Ireland said: “Many businesses already use Google AdWords to reach new customers locally, across the UK and across the world. BT Business can now offer targeted, accountable and cost effective AdWords advertising to more than a million small businesses in the UK. We look forward to working with BT to help more small businesses get the most out of the online opportunity.”

About BT Business
BT Business understands the challenges that businesses face in the current climate, and supports cost control, improved productivity and winning business with technology including business broadband & internet, domain names and web hosting packages, IT support and mobile services including BlackBerry.

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Fasthosts Internet Announced That An API Is Now Available To Their Resellers Free Of Charge

Fasthosts Internet, a leading reseller web hosting provider, has announced that an API (Application Protocol Interface) is now available to their resellers free of charge through their control panel. Allowing for automation and enhanced control, this complimentary tool gives Fasthosts’ resellers easier management of their reseller business and customer base.

Fasthosts’ API is a flexible and powerful resource that can be seamlessly incorporated into resellers’ websites. Fasthosts partners can customize the interface to perform tasks that are best suited to their needs. Most importantly, its automated performance leaves business leaders with more time and energy to put towards things like marketing and sales.

For Fasthosts, this is an important step in boosting the company’s appeal within such a competitive market. Stephen Holford, Chief Marketing Officer for Fasthosts, highlighted that the company is committed to providing a world class service for its resellers and believes this API will be an extremely valuable reseller tool to Fasthosts partners.

The API allows resellers to automate new customer signups, create admin tools for end-customers, and process customer orders automatically. Resellers using the API can have their customers set up hosting directly from their website and secure domain names in real-time. What’s more is the potential for resellers to increase their profit margins – this API is an efficient mechanism for running a smooth and profitable business operation.

Fasthosts is automatically including the API into its reseller control panels. It is accessible using any server side language, and provides full documentation and examples for all API functions. Resellers are also given test scripts as another way to customize the API for their business needs.

About Fasthosts
Fasthosts is the UK’s leading web hosting company. Based in the UK and operating 24×7 from its dedicated UK data centres, Fasthosts keeps over 1 million domains running smoothly and ensures over 6 million emails are delivered safely each day.

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Report Says Non-Profit Websites Grow Amidst UK Recession

Fasthosts Internet Ltd, a leading web hosting provider and domain name registrar, today reported a marked increase in the number of .ORG domains registered by non-profit organisations during the past year. The domain suffix has out-grown in percentage terms many other non business top-level domain suffixes, indicating an increase in the number of non-profit and charitable projects being launched in the first half of 2009. The unique growth lends weight to the theory that many such organisations have initiated or grown web-based projects in response to the global recession.

The .ORG domain name is the domain of choice for organisations dedicated to serving the public interest. Data from Fasthosts, one of the UK’s largest domain name registrars, shows that .ORG registrations made by its customers grew by 27% compared to the same period in 2008. The domain has seen the highest demand over all other non-business domains. Whilst domain success can often be skewed by short-term price promotions, the growth of .ORG comprises like for like growth over the 12 month period.

As many UK charities have reported falls in donation income since the economy slowed down, such growth in .ORG domain registrations may suggest that non-profit bodies have stepped up investment in the internet. Web solutions now offer such groups extremely cost effective and scalable channels for gathering support and participation for causes, and taking donations directly from a website.

Steve Holford, CMO Fasthosts Internet Ltd, said: “It is pleasing to note the growth of the .ORG community and witness the remarkable difference that the web can deliver to non-profit organisations. In challenging economic times, such groups are wise to leverage the efficiencies and visibility that online projects can offer.”

Holford added: “Just as the recession has led UK businesses to step up ecommerce efforts, the Internet is the right logical step for non-profit groups to broaden their reach and safeguard their revenues.”

iT4Communities, a Fasthosts customer, is a charity that runs a large UK-wide network of IT volunteers who support hundreds of charity IT projects a year. They have seen a steady increase in requests for volunteer help with websites for small charities year on year. It remains the largest area of request for help as charities strive for a good website that helps them reduce costs and attract more support.

Anne Stafford, Programme Manager for iT4Communities, said: “Charities are relishing the benefits of websites with a CMS, making it cost effective to update their information and easier for volunteers to help as building a good site can take much less time”.

Fasthosts is a leading provider for shared and dedicated web hosting and business-class email solutions, and is the UK market leader for reseller web hosting.

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Study Shows That 53 Per Cent Of US Business Owners Seek More Involvement In The Purchasing Of Their IT Services, Such As Hosting, Than Ever Before

Fasthosts Internet Ltd, a leading web hosting provider, has released a study showing that 53 per cent of US business owners seek more involvement in the purchasing of their IT services, such as hosting, than ever before.

Study Shows That 53 Per Cent Of US Business Owners Seek More Involvement In The Purchasing Of Their IT Services, Such As Hosting, Than Ever Before

The survey of 132 US business* owners found that in the past year, over half (53 per cent) have purposefully sought a greater understanding of the IT services they use as a direct result of economic pressures, and intend to be more involved in selecting their IT service providers going forward.

F r o m those businesses that use dedicated hosting services, 1 in 4 owners wish to renegotiate associated costs this year. As businesses worldwide scrutinize IT costs, Fasthosts is encouraging UK companies to review their hosting costs and seek out the best possible technology for their money. Fasthosts is also helping UK businesses to lower their server costs by reducing its dedicated server prices with discounts of up to £480 per annum for the life of the contract.

Steve Holford, CMO Fasthosts commented, “Every business owner understands the importance of procurement. One should review their web solutions periodically, and push through necessary changes. In a challenging operating environment, it is imperative that every business gets what it pays for and pays only for what it needs”.

Fasthosts dedicated server solutions have been tailored to support business needs with high-speed performance and connectivity, no bandwidth charges and 24/7 UK-based support. All dedicated servers are housed within a state-of-the-art data centre in Gloucester and designed to provide demanding users with high specifications and excellent service levels. Business owners can contact advisors at Fasthosts to discuss their requirements and potential cost savings for their business.

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Survey Shows Fear Outweighs Cost Concerns With Business IT Needs

A new survey by IT specialists Fasthosts Internet has revealed that companies are being forced to re-evaluate their IT systems and question what they really need due to the unsettled economy. In these difficult times, one-third said they still hesitate to consider a replacement server even if it is necessary. At the same time, 53% of business owners are becoming more involved in decisions relating to their IT needs in light of the challenging economy.

Survey Shows Fear Outweighs Cost Concerns With Business IT Needs

When times get tough, a company’s budget spending strategy can seriously affect the quality and quantity of the company’s technology resources. The Fasthosts survey showed 29% of respondents have reviewed their budget for servers in the past six months. Nearly twice that number (54%) has analysed their finances during the last 12 months.

For many people the fear of what might happen when they replace their server looms over their decision. One in three survey participants (33%) said they would be fearful of switching to a new provider because of a potential disruption to their service. Perhaps bound by this fear, 22% have not updated or changed their server solution in at least three years even though at least 25% said they want to lower their external server costs.

Stephen Holford, chief marketing officer of Fasthosts Internet, says the company understands where its customers’ fears lay and hope they are able to clear up questions about servers.

He said: “Fasthosts products are offered by the leading provider for reseller web hosting in the UK, and one that is making a strong mark in the US. We try to emphasize that a background in IT isn’t necessary to use and profit from our servers and reseller solutions so that smaller businesses can better understand their IT needs. If given a closer look, they will see the top-of-the-line solutions that Fasthosts offers at very competitive prices.”

Getting the most value for their money is a concern many have when deciding how much should be spent on their IT provider, especially regarding servers. Almost half (45%) of survey participants said they felt overcharged for costs including monitoring fees, server management, additional memory and IP addresses, back-up space, consultancy fees and server traffic. One third of the respondents, however, pay more than just their provider to upkeep their server.

Holford added: “Balancing a budget is difficult, especially when there is uncertainty concerning necessary versus peripheral costs. IT solutions, like servers and online services, are important to any company. It seems that people must realize that there are providers out there like Fasthosts that can alleviate concerns by offering solutions that exhibit both quality and value for a reasonable cost.”

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BT Business Cuts The Price Of Web Hosting

BT Business has announced a major price cut to its web hosting Starter Pack to encourage small businesses to get online.

 Web Hosting

The cost of a 5GB web hosting package with BT Business has been reduced by 40 per cent to an exclusive online price of £2.99* per month, including a host of extra business tools to help small businesses promote themselves with a professional and secure web presence.

With enough web space to create hundreds of pages, a professional business domain name and business email for up to 10 accounts, the price cut makes the BT Business Starter Pack one of the most high value web hosting packages specifically designed for small businesses in the UK offering 24/7 support.

One in five small businesses don’t have their own web site, despite 25 per cent -£78 billion – of UK retail spend in this year projected to come from online sales. According to BT Business research the vast majority that do are also not getting the most out of their websites or using them effectively to attract customers.

Helen Costello, founder of Aardvark Cakes in St Helens, Merseyside, has been a BT web hosting Starter Pack customer for three years. The mother-of-two, who works from home, said: “My business is my website and it is important for me that it is easy for customers to find what they are looking for and place orders. Having a trustworthy web hosting provider is vital to me as the site is an indispensable tool of my trade. In the past 12 months, trade has really escalated, showing just how important it is for a small business to have an online presence in this day and age.”

“Having a professional web site presence could mean the difference between winning and losing customers in the current climate,” said Jerry Thompson, director online, BT Business. “We are listening to small businesses that are citing overall cost, ease of use and 24/7 support amongst their top considerations when getting online. By offering a complete range of high value digital marketing services we want to ensure that small businesses can compete as effectively as bigger companies and can grow their online presence with them.”

The BT Business Starter Pack is available immediately. Additional features include free web site building software with 400 templates to get businesses started on creating their own web site without the need for technical expertise.

*Pricing on a 12 months contract. Price reverts to £5 after first 12 months. Terms and Conditions apply

About BT
BT is one of the world’s leading providers of communications solutions and services operating in 170 countries. Its principal activities include the provision of networked IT services globally; local, national and international telecommunications services to our customers for use at home, at work and on the move; broadband and internet products and services and converged fixed/mobile products and services. BT consists principally of four lines of business: BT Global Services, Openreach, BT Retail and BT Wholesale.

In the year ended 31 March 2009, BT Group’s revenue was £21,390 million.

British Telecommunications plc (BT) is a wholly-owned subsidiary of BT Group plc and encompasses virtually all businesses and assets of the BT Group. BT Group plc is listed on stock exchanges in London and New York.

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