The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best WooCommerce Hosting
By Sam Nguyen
Are you ready to take your e-commerce venture to the next level? Selecting the best WooCommerce hosting is a pivotal decision that can significantly impact your online store’s performance and success. This comprehensive review will delve into the top WooCommerce hosting providers, highlighting their features, pricing, pros, cons, and security.
Key Takeaways
- Bluehost: Offers strong performance and user-friendly support, making it an excellent choice for beginners. It’s seamlessly integrated with WooCommerce for smooth online selling.
- InMotion: Strikes a balance with competitive pricing, reliable performance, and essential customer service. It is ideal for those seeking budget-friendly hosting with robust features.
- Hostinger: Provides affordable plans without compromising quality, making them suitable for budget-conscious newcomers.
- SiteGround: Known for speed and reliability, it’s an excellent match for those prioritizing performance.
- DreamHost: Offers a well-rounded blend of cost, performance, and features. It supports WooCommerce and comes with competitive pricing.
- GoDaddy Hosting: User-friendly with various hosting options, though some advanced WooCommerce features might be limited.
- Liquid Web: Offers high-functionality managed WooCommerce hosting with premium tools. It is suited for those who emphasize performance and are willing to invest.
- Kinsta: Stands out with exceptional performance and advanced features. Hosted on the Google Cloud Platform, it’s perfect for businesses seeking top-tier performance and specialized offerings.
What Is WooCommerce Hosting?
WooCommerce hosting is a WordPress plugin with added performance enhancements, features, and advantages specifically tailored to cater to the needs of eCommerce purposes.
Unlike Shopify, WooCommerce is a free and open-source plugin, not a self-hosted platform.
Why you should choose WooCommerce hosting
There are reasons why you should use WooCommerce hosting:
Endless Theme Options
WooCommerce offers the opportunity to create a distinctive ecommerce brand without any cost. Unlike many website builders with limitations, WooCommerce, based on WordPress, provides extensive flexibility for customization.
With over three dozen ready-to-use themes available, entrepreneurs can change settings and reach desired looks independently, although professional assistance can be sought for a fully customized user experience.
Huge Plugins Library
The WooCommerce Plugin Store provides a comprehensive range of tools for launching your online store. WooCommerce offers numerous free and paid plugins catering to various needs, such as accounting, marketing, reporting, and payment gateways.
Customization Options
WooCommerce offers extensive customization options, allowing you to tailor your online store to any degree, from the checkout page to the footer and beyond. By adjusting CSS, colors, code, and themes, you can create an appealing storefront design that meets user expectations and converts visitors into customers.
Inventory Management
Online merchants often struggle with inventory management due to inadequate features, leading to unfulfilled orders or excess unrecorded stock.
To address this, WooCommerce provides a renowned inventory system that tracks products by any attribute and notifies merchants when stock is low. The platform’s “Out Of Stock” feature ensures products remain visible online even when out of stock, though customers cannot order items with zero inventory.
How to choose WooCommerce Hosting
Selecting the right WooCommerce hosting provider is essential to establish a strong foundation for a speedy, secure, and reliable online store. To make an informed decision, consider the following key criteria:
- Security Features: Protecting your customers’ data is essential because a compromised online store can deter shoppers. Thus, it’s vital to choose a hosting service that emphasizes strong security measures.
- Performance: A responsive and fast-loading store contributes significantly to customer satisfaction and retention.
- Uptime: Ensuring continuous access to your online store is crucial for success. Therefore, store owners should choose hosting providers that guarantee at least 99.9% uptime.
- eCommerce features: Each e-store has its requirements, so select a hosting service that offers features and tools to complete your store’s niche and objectives.
Best WooCommerce Hosting Providers in 2023
If you’re running an online store, it’s essential to pick the right WooCommerce hosting provider wisely. To assist you in this decision, we’ve gathered a list of well-regarded top-tier providers known for their excellent WooCommerce hosting services.
Bluehost
Bluehost, founded in 2003, is headquartered in Burlington, Massachusetts, USA. It has gained widespread recognition as a reliable and trustworthy hosting provider.
Bluehost has a user-friendly interface and cost-effectiveness, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced users. Particularly for WordPress enthusiasts, Bluehost stands out with its one-click installation, earning a spot on Forbes Advisor’s top WordPress hosting services.
Pricing
When it comes to Bluehost’s pricing plans, there’s a range of options to suit different needs:
- Bluehost offers shared hosting plans, starting at $2.95 per month.
- Bluehost’s dedicated hosting plans, which are the priciest, range from $89.98. Remarkably, these plans also offer the best value for what they include.
- Bluehost’s VPS plans, known for their value, range from $29.99 per month.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Lowest price hosting in the market Performance Optimized Great customer support 1-click WordPress install Free Domain and Free SSL Multiple Datacenters | Renewal prices are a bit higher Not the best site speed & uptime Lots of add-ons at checkout |
Specific features of Bluehost
When it comes to serving WordPress users, Bluehost goes the extra mile. Regardless of your chosen WooCommerce hosting plan, you’ll benefit from a range of key features that set the stage for your success:
- 1 Free Domain: Save on costs by securing a custom domain without extra charges through Bluehost.
- Unmetered Bandwidth: Bluehost’s unmetered bandwidth ensures seamless operations even during traffic surges.
- WooCommerce Auto-Install: Skip the setup hassle – Bluehost handles the WooCommerce installation for you, saving time and effort.
- Dedicated IP Address: Enjoy the benefits of heightened security and more secure payments with a dedicated IP address
- Free SSL: Ensure the safety of online transactions by encrypting customer payment details with a free SSL certificate
- Free Setup Call: Every WooCommerce hosting customer receives a complimentary setup call, ensuring a smooth start to your journey.
- Domain Privacy and Protection: Safeguard against spam and security risks by protecting your contact information through domain privacy.
- Storefront Theme Installed: Skip the theme setup – Bluehost installs your storefront theme for added convenience.
- Two-factor authentication: Set up the two-factor authentication (2FA) to ensure nobody can access your account by knowing your password, preventing any unauthorized person from accessing your site, cPanel, or Bluehost account.
Security
Bluehost prioritizes security, as shown by the features provided to their WooCommerce hosting customers.
- Free SSL and Dedicated IP: All WooCommerce hosting customers benefit from a free SSL certificate and a dedicated IP address, ensuring secure payment transactions within your online store.
- CodeGuard Backup Basic: For enhanced security, Bluehost includes CodeGuard Backup Basic (except for the cheapest plan), safeguarding your store’s data.
- Starter Plan Security Extras: If you opt for the Starter plan, you can bolster security further by adding extras during checkout:
- CodeGuard Basic: Available for an additional $35.88 per year.
- SiteLock Security (Essential): Offered at $2.08 per month.
InMotion
InMotion Hosting is a prominent web hosting provider renowned for its diverse range of hosting plans, including shared, WordPress, VPS, and dedicated server options, catering to businesses of all sizes.
We hold InMotion Hosting in high regard for its dependable service and top-quality hosting. They offer help 24/7, loads of online resources, and even aid with moving your site for free.m They also provide a wealth of online guides, tutorials, and articles to help you troubleshoot issues. Plus, they have a user forum for sharing experiences, guaranteeing 99.9% uptime to keep your website running smoothly.
Pricing
InMotion provides four shared web hosting plans, starting from $2.29 per month and going up to $19.99 per month during the introductory period. Apart from the basic Core plan, the differences between the plans are insignificant, as indicated below.
| Core | Launch | Power | Pro | |
| Introductory Pricing | $3.49 per month Note: for first two years | $6.99 per month Note: for first two years | $6.99 per month Note: for first two years | $14.99 per month Note: for first two years |
| Storage | 100GB SSD | Unlimited NVMe SSDs | Unlimited NVMe SSDs | Unlimited NVMe SSDs |
| Bandwidth | Unlimited | |||
| Free Domain | No | Yes | ||
| Free SSL Certificate | Yes | |||
| cPanel | Yes | |||
| Business Email | 10 accounts | Unlimited | ||
| Customer Support | 24/7/365 live chat and ticket | 24/7/365 live chat and ticket | 24/7/365 phone, live chat and ticket | 24/7/365 phone, live chat and ticket |
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Low introductory pricing that starts at $3.49 per month Competitive money-back guarantee policy24/7 customer support Active community forum International data center options Free SSL, hack, and malware protection, and DDoS prevention | No Windows servers A month-to-month payment plan is not available for the basic plans Phone support only available on Power and Pro plans No content delivery network |
Specific features of InMotion
Here’s a summary of InMotion Hosting’s features:
- Free SSL security
- Unlimited NVMe SSD & Bandwidth
- Marketing tools
- 200+ free themes
- Live chat support
- Security suite
Security
InMotion Hosting prioritizes your website’s security. Firstly, every website has an SSL/TLS certificate, which is essential for user trust and safe connections. Additionally, unlike many other providers, InMotion offers free malware protection for all plans. This acts as your website’s shield, daily detecting and addressing vulnerabilities. If threats emerge, they are swiftly quarantined.
Moreover, in case of any issues, automatic backups come standard with all plans. This means that even if you forget, the platform safeguards your data. And if ever there’s a need, restoring your website is free and straightforward.
Hostinger
Hostinger is a budget-friendly web hosting service with advanced features on a custom-built cPanel. It suits beginners and pros alike, offering the option to use their Zyro website builder for creating websites from scratch.
Hostinger is highly regarded for its standout features. Users particularly appreciate its 24/7 live support, ensuring help is always at hand. Additionally, its simple setup allows websites to be launched effortlessly with a single click.
Moreover, Hostinger prioritizes website speed, recognizing its importance for success. This focus on speed and user support has cemented positive feelings among its users.
Pricing
Hostinger offers a variety of Shared Web Hosting Plans to suit different needs, each with its own pricing structure.
- Single Web Hosting Plan: $1.99 to $9.99 per month
- Premium Web Hosting Plan: $2.99 per month, including a 3-free month.
- Business Web Hosting Plan: $3.99 per month, including a 3-free month.
- Cloud Startup Web Hosting Plan: $9.99 per month, including a 3-free month.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Website builder available for all plans Optional Hostinger Minecraft server Multilingual customer support High user ratings on Trustpilot and HostAdvice | No cPanelNo telephone support No standard refund terms Only one email account on the single shared hosting plan |
Specific features of Hostinger
To ensure a successful online presence, a web host must offer essential features for optimal performance and security. Hostinger covers these vital aspects to provide reliable hosting services and build visitors’ trust in your website.
- Reliable Uptime
- Adequate Storage
- Regular Backup
- Support
- Security by providing SSL certificates and DDoS
- High Bandwidth
- Customized Domains
Security
Hostinger prioritizes security and implements multiple layers of protection. For instance, it protects websites from malware and malicious activities by using BitNinja alongside comprehensive DDoS protection, Cloudflare integration, and an in-house firewall.
Furthermore, Hostinger includes SSL certificates with all hosting plans, ensuring your website’s security by encrypting visitor information, and preventing compromise. Regular backups, either daily or weekly, are also provided, assuring the preservation of your files and databases.
SiteGround
SiteGround is also suggested as an excellent choice for WooCommerce hosting, offering specially crafted plans that are perfect for creating and running online stores.
SiteGround goes beyond basic shared hosting by offering cloud and reseller hosting with higher limits on disk space, bandwidth, and processing power. Rather than vague measurements, SiteGround quantifies what you’re getting. For example, their lowest hosting plan is estimated to accommodate about 10,000 monthly visitors, a number they strive to deliver.
SiteGround stands out as a top choice for WooCommerce hosting, offering specialized plans tailored for online stores. Beyond basic shared hosting, they also provide cloud and reseller hosting with clear limits on resources. For instance, their entry-level plan aims to support around 10,000 monthly visitors.
SiteGround also prioritizes offering a quick experience for both users and search engines, highlighting their commitment to an optimal user experience.
Pricing
Here we will take a closer look at SiteGround’s pricing plans and discuss various ways to reduce your costs.
- SiteGround StartUp: $2.99/month: For those starting out, the SiteGround StartUp plan offers more than just the basics. You’ll be able to host one website with 10GB of storage and unlimited data transfer to accommodate around 10,000 monthly visitors to your site.
- SiteGround GrowBig: $4.69/month: If you’re a small business with multiple websites, the SiteGround GrowBig plan could be the right choice. It allows you to create and host as many websites as you want, with 20GB of storage.
- SiteGround GoGeek: $7.99/month: For those needing more advanced features, the SiteGround GoGeek plan builds upon the previous tiers. You’ll get 40GB of disk space and unlimited data transfer to accommodate around 400,000 monthly visitors.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Best WordPress support team Good uptimeFast speed Free SSL Officially recommended by WordPress.org and WooCommerce Free Site Migration Managed WooCommerce hosting powered by the Google Cloud platform Automatic backups (daily) Enhanced security firewall Pre-installed WooCommerce plugin Access to SEO ranking tools like AIO, SEO Additional helpful plugins: WPForms, OptinMonster | No free domain GoGeek Plan is slightly expensive |
Specific features of SiteGround
- Free CDN and Speed Emphasis
- Cloud Hosting and Customization
- Extras and Inclusions
- WordPress auto-updates
- Free, professional site transfer available (on certain plans)
Security
SiteGround prioritizes website security with a suite of robust features. They offer backups, SSL certificates, and a site scanner to ensure your site’s safety. Users can manually create backups and also enjoy automatic daily versions.
Furthermore, SiteGround allows password protection for specific pages and easy management of SSL certificates. For enhanced security, there’s an option to block specific IPs or even entire countries. Additionally, their site scanner, available as a paid add-on, acts like an antivirus, scanning for malware and quarantining any threats, protecting the site’s defense.
DreamHost
DreamHost is an excellent choice for budget-conscious individuals, particularly those searching for shared hosting solutions.
DreamHost stands out for its unparalleled 100% uptime guarantee, demonstrating its commitment to reliability. This dedication is further highlighted by its use of fast and efficient SSDs, which is especially beneficial for platforms like WordPress.
In addition, DreamHost generously offers numerous perks like free SSL certificates and automated WordPress migration, even in its budget-friendly plans. Beyond hosting, DreamHost’s diverse service range, encompassing website design to social media marketing, ensures a comprehensive online presence for its users.
Pricing
DreamHost offers diverse pricing plans to cater to various website needs and demands, ranging from $16.95 to $79.95 per month.
- DreamPress Plan: $19.95/month
- DreamPress Plus: $29.95/month
- DreamPress Pro: $79.95/month
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Free secure sockets layer (SSL) certificates Free domain for the first year Free WHOIS Privacy protection Unmetered bandwidth on all plans The 1-click installer makes adding web apps easy 97-day money-back guarantee for shared hosting | The antimalware tool is a paid add-on Slower average response time than competitors No customer support phone number No money-back guarantee for virtual private servers (VPS) and dedicated plans |
Specific features of DreamHost
Here are the core features of DreamHost for you to consider:
- Fast Solid State Storage
- WooCommerce Pre-Configured
- FREE SSL Security
- Automatic Updates
- Server-Level Caching
- 100% Uptime Guaranteed
Security
DreamHost prioritizes website security with a range of features designed to protect visitors and user data. It offers DreamShield, a malware and virus removal tool that identifies and eliminates problematic files. While DreamShield is available for $3 per month, its value might vary based on user needs.
DreamHost enhances privacy by providing free WHOIS Privacy registration, shielding personal details and curbing spam. Additionally, users receive a complimentary SSL/Transport Layer Security (TLS) certificate from Let’s Encrypt, ensuring data security, especially when handling customer information.
GoDaddy Hosting
GoDaddy provides web hosting, domain registration, and website-building services. With over 84 million domains hosted and innovative features like SMS support, it’s a top choice for individuals and small businesses seeking hosting solutions.
Beyond traditional shared web hosting, GoDaddy provides a complimentary website builder. This is especially beneficial for newcomers who might not be familiar with cPanel or WordPress. With their user-friendly site builder, you can create a website without needing advanced technical skills.
A significant advantage of opting for GoDaddy is the free domain you receive for the first year. Alternatively, if you already possess a domain you’d prefer to use, you can easily adjust your domain name system (DNS) provider records following the provided instructions.
Similar to other web hosting services, GoDaddy facilitates smooth website transfers to or from its servers using its site migration tool.
Pricing
GoDaddy offers various hosting plans to meet diverse user requirements, and notably, their ecommerce hosting plan is priced at $20.99 per month. This approach showcases both flexibility and value for their customers.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Easy-to-use site builder tool Free domain registration for the first term 30-day money-back guarantee 24/7 support99.9% uptime guarantee | No free site transfer Numerous upsellsHigh renewal rates |
Specific features of GoDaddy Hosting
On GoDaddy’s ecommerce plan, you get access to:
- Unlimited storage, visitors, and product listings (only one store)
- Daily malware protection scans
- Free premium WooCommerce extensions
- SEO optimizer
- 1-click staging environment
- No transaction fees on unlimited product listings
- A free domain ($12.17/year value)
- Daily backups
- Free SSL
Security
In GoDaddy’s web hosting plans, you’ll find a basic set of security features. This includes a free SSL certificate for the first year, daily backups, and continuous network security for its servers through 24/7 monitoring.
For enhanced security, there are three site security plans available. These offer tools like malware scanning, backup recovery, site cleanup, and a web application firewall.
Liquid Web
Founded in 1997, Liquid Web has evolved into a trusted web hosting provider renowned for its VPS, managed cloud, dedicated, and managed WordPress and WooCommerce hosting services.
With a remarkable presence, Liquid Web serves over 30,000 customers across 130 countries, maintaining consistent growth year after year.
Liquid Web’s distinctive approach within the hosting industry is evident through its departure from the highly competitive shared hosting market. Instead, the company focuses on delivering premium, high-quality hosting services that offer exceptional value, even at a slightly higher cost. This commitment to quality sets Liquid Web apart and positions it as a reputable and dependable choice for web hosting needs.
Pricing
Liquid Web offers a range of Managed Hosting pricing options designed to cater to various needs and budgets. With seven pricing plans ranging from $21 to $492.75 per month, individuals and businesses can select the best fit for their requirements.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Robust dedicated, VPS, cloud, and reseller packages Prorated VPS plans Powerful, high-end server specs Terrific customer service Excellent uptime in testing Several control panels to choose from Fine range of hosting options Bold 100% uptime guarantee Splendid 24/7/365 support | Expensive No shared hosting No free trial |
Specific features of Liquid Web
Here are the core features of Liquid Web:
- 24/7/365 On-Site Support
- SSL Certificates Available
- Fully Managed Servers
- Dedicated or Cloud Infrastructure
- Offsite Backup Available
- PCI Compliance Scanning Available
Security
Liquid Web prioritizes online security, especially given threats like DDoS attacks. They address these risks with free Cloudflare CDN services that offer advanced DDoS protection and block malicious traffic.
Additionally, they emphasize data encryption through SSL certificates, which are crucial for secure online interactions. Remarkably, all Liquid Web hosting customers receive a complimentary SSL certificate, and their Managed WooCommerce and WordPress plans automatically offer free Let’s Encrypt SSL certificates. This ensures secure transactions and prevents browsers like Google Chrome from marking the site as “Not Secure.”
Kinsta
Kinsta stands out as a highly reliable hosting provider on a global scale, relying solely on the Google Cloud Platform for its services. It offers exceptional choices for WordPress, database, and app hosting, all characterized by breakneck speeds and backed by top-notch customer support.
What sets Kinsta apart is its unique approach. Instead of running its own servers, it offers managed hosting on Google’s enterprise-level network. While its main offering is managed WordPress hosting, it also extends to application and database hosting.
Unlike standard shared hosts, Kinsta doesn’t overload you with unnecessary add-ons. It focuses on features that enhance control and elevate your hosting experience. Moreover, Kinsta’s services are accessible in various languages, including Danish, Dutch, English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese, Spanish, and Swedish.
Pricing
Kinsta offers various hosting plans designed to cater to different requirements from $35 to $450 per month.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Swift responses and loadingExcellent support Top-notch securityStrong infrastructure | No domain hosting Lacks phone support No shared hosting |
Specific features of Kinsta
Kinsta web hosting, while not the most budget-friendly option, distinguishes itself by hosting all customer websites on the robust Google Cloud Platform’s Premium Tier network.
Here are the core Kinsta features:
- MyKinsta Control Panel
- High-Performance CPUs and Global Delivery
- DevKinsta – Free Local WordPress Development Suite
- Application and Database Hosting
- 99.9% Uptime Guarantee
- Free Pro Package with Agency Plan
- Free SSL Certificate
- State-of-the-Art Infrastructure
Security
We found that Kinsta offers the following security capabilities:
- Creation of IP address blacklists
- Password protection for directories, posts, pages, categories, and WooCommerce products
- Management of private keys and digital certificates
- Implementation of filters for email accounts and users
- Access to a dedicated security team for handling attacks and breaches
- Utilization of automated backups
Additionally, Kinsta enforces encrypted SFTP and SSH connections and regularly conducts automated security tests on installed plugins to identify vulnerabilities. Their robust backup strategy ensures two weeks’ worth of backups are retained at all times, with the flexibility to extend data retention upon request.
Which WooCommerce Hosting Provider Is Right For You?
Choosing the right WooCommerce hosting provider is crucial for the success of your online store. Let’s delve into each option to determine which one best fits you:
- Bluehost: If you’re seeking a reliable and popular option, Bluehost offers solid performance and customer support. Its user-friendly interface makes it suitable for beginners, while its WooCommerce integration ensures a seamless e-commerce experience.
- InMotion: For a balanced choice, InMotion provides competitive pricing, reliable performance, and excellent customer service.
- Hostinger: Hostinger offers economical plans without compromising quality.
- SiteGround: With a reputation for speed and reliability, SiteGround is ideal for users who value performance.
- DreamHost: If you’re looking for a well-rounded hosting provider that supports WooCommerce and offers competitive pricing, DreamHost is a solid contender.
- GoDaddy Hosting: If you’re seeking a well-known name with various hosting options. While it may lack some advanced WooCommerce features, it’s user-friendly and offers scalability.
- Liquid Web: Liquid Web provides comprehensive managed WooCommerce hosting, including extra plugins and tools to cater to those who want a high-performing online store.
- Kinsta: Hosting on Google Cloud Platform and offering specialized features like application and database hosting, Kinsta is a great fit for businesses that demand the best.
WooCommerce Hosting: FAQs
- Performance: Fast loading times and minimal downtime.
- Security: Protection against threats and attacks, including SSL certificates.
- WooCommerce Optimization: Specialized support and features tailored for WooCommerce stores.
- Scalability: Ability to accommodate growth in traffic and products.
- Customer Support: Responsive and knowledgeable support for troubleshooting
Moreover, knowledgeable support teams can assist you with technical issues, website maintenance, and WooCommerce-related inquiries.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the best WooCommerce hosting is a pivotal step in ensuring the success of your online store. By analyzing features, pricing, security, and customer support, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your business goals.
