When searching for hosting providers, you may have come across big names like Bluehost, HostGator, and iPage. What you may not know is that these companies, along with dozens of others, are owned by Endurance International Group (EIG), now rebranded as Newfold Digital. While EIG hosts boast large user bases and well-known branding, there’s a darker side to their services that potential customers should be aware of.
1. Declining Performance and Reliability
EIG hosting brands often experience slow server speeds and frequent downtime. This is largely due to the company’s business model: acquiring hosting companies and cutting costs to maximize profits. Overloaded servers, minimal investment in infrastructure, and outdated technologies result in poor performance for end users.
2. Hidden Costs and Pricing Tactics
EIG companies attract customers with low introductory rates, but renewal prices are often significantly higher. Many essential features, like backups and security tools, require additional fees, which are not always made clear during sign-up.
3. Mediocre Customer Support
Support quality is another common complaint. EIG tends to outsource customer service, resulting in slow response times and unhelpful interactions. While some brands under their umbrella may perform slightly better than others, the overall trend is disappointing.
4. Loss of Identity Post-Acquisition
When EIG acquires a hosting company, it often merges operations into its larger network. This transition typically strips acquired companies of their unique features, resulting in a loss of individuality and a decline in service quality.
5. Aggressive Upselling Practices
EIG hosting brands are notorious for aggressive upselling tactics. From the moment you sign up, you’re bombarded with offers to purchase additional services, many of which are redundant or unnecessary.
Better Hosting Alternatives to Consider
If you’re tired of slow speeds, unreliable uptime, and questionable business practices, there are reliable alternatives to EIG hosting brands. Here are three top choices:
1. ASPHostPortal
- Why It Stands Out: ASPHostPortal is renowned for its reliability, exceptional performance, and transparent pricing. It offers scalable hosting solutions, including shared, VPS, and dedicated plans, all powered by modern technology. Their support team is responsive and knowledgeable, making them an excellent choice for beginners and professionals alike.
- Best For: Windows hosting, .NET Core hosting, and businesses requiring high availability.
2. SiteGround
- Why It Stands Out: SiteGround is known for its focus on speed and security. They employ cutting-edge technologies like SSD storage, caching tools, and AI-based anti-bot systems. Their customer service consistently receives high marks, and they don’t engage in the aggressive upselling tactics that plague EIG brands.
- Best For: WordPress hosting, small to medium-sized websites, and ecommerce sites.
3. A2 Hosting
- Why It Stands Out: A2 Hosting is celebrated for its speed-focused infrastructure, boasting Turbo servers that can deliver 20x faster performance than standard servers. They also offer developer-friendly features and an anytime money-back guarantee.
- Best For: Developers, startups, and those looking for eco-friendly hosting.
4. GreenGeeks
- Why It Stands Out: GreenGeeks combines excellent hosting services with a strong commitment to sustainability. They offer fast loading speeds, robust security measures, and 24/7 support while investing in renewable energy to offset their carbon footprint.
- Best For: Environmentally conscious users and small businesses.
5. Kinsta
- Why It Stands Out: Kinsta is a premium hosting provider built on Google Cloud Platform. Known for its blazing-fast speeds and managed WordPress solutions, Kinsta offers tools and features tailored to businesses and developers who demand performance and scalability.
- Best For: Enterprise websites, high-traffic blogs, and online stores.
Conclusion
While EIG hosting brands may be tempting due to their widespread recognition and low introductory rates, the drawbacks often outweigh the benefits. Issues with performance, support, and pricing transparency are prevalent across the board.
Switching to a reliable hosting provider like ASPHostPortal, SiteGround, or A2 Hosting can provide peace of mind, better performance, and an overall superior hosting experience. Don’t settle for mediocrity—your website deserves a hosting provider that delivers excellence.
