Do I need to know HTML or learn any complicated software?

No, using the hostware® you can literally build an entire Web site without any knowledge of HTML or programming. The program is easy to learn and very easy to use.

How is this hostware® program better than off-the-shelf software?

In almost every way imaginable. The program provides a complete solution, where an off-the-shelf package would only cover a small portion of what you really need to get your business on the Web.

The accounts offer Web page creation, Web page hosting, E-commerce capability (the ability to receive payment directly online), and Promotional Tools. No other solution offers such a complete package.

Also, with off-the-shelf software you must purchase software updates and upgrades in order to keep up. With hostware® you never need to purchase an update or upgrade - your tools are updated in real time as we make improvements.

Where can I go for help if I don't understand something?

The program comes with free customer support for as long as you subscribe. See Support page for details. Support is provided by telephone, email, online text, and instant chat.

Can I use my current Web address/domain name?

Yes, and there are no fees associated with transferring a domain name and most other information over to your account.

Are there limitations to the size of my Web site?Yes and No. There is no limit to the number of pages you may have on your Web site, but there is a file size limit to your respective account. Additional webspace can be purchased for only $0.25/MB per month.

How long does it take to build a Web site using the hostware®?
This depends upon the extent and complexity of your site, but a simple site could be up and live to the world in less than 10 minutes.

How many template styles does it have?
Unlimited. The hostware® offers a Free Form system which means that you can customize your web site the way you want it. We have developed, however, several pre-built model websites which we sometimes refer to as template websites. These websites, too, are completely customizable.

Do you make any recommendations for merchant accounts?
Yes. We recommend eCom Merchant Solutions. Click here for more information.

I already have a website, can I transfer it?
Yes, you can easily upload existing HTML and image files into your hostware account. Note, however, that if you want to use the hostware® program to update your existing HTML pages, they must first be recreated into the hostware® program.

What are the system requirements?
You need a computer (Mac or PC), Internet connection, and a browser like Internet Explorer version 5.0 and up and Netscape version 4.0 and up.

What are the legal restrictions of your websites?We prohibit pornography, SPAM (bulk e-mail to people other than those on your mailing list), and the sale or display of anything illegal. These are spelled out in the terms and conditions you will be given at the time you log into your account.

Are there any hidden costs that I will find out about later?
There are no hidden costs and you will never be surprised with hidden or unknown fees.

How would a Web site benefit my business?
Whether you are looking to increase profits or cut expenses, a well-designed Web site can and should be an integral part of your business model. Over 60% of consumers today go online to research products and services before they buy, and if you don't have information about your company online, you're at a disadvantage.

A good Web site provides 24-hour-a-day answers and information for your customers and potential customers. And with e-commerce capability they can make a purchase at any time - day or night. That means that even while you are sleeping, your company is open for business and making you money!

Will there be advertisements on my Web page?No. There will be no advertisements or banners on your Web page. The information that goes onto your Web page is up to you.

How secure is the hostware® system?
The program uses SSL (Secure Socket Layer) technology. You can feel confident that your Web page is both safe and secure. In addtion to SSL, credit card transactions also benefit from our 3-WayEncryption™ technology.

Advanced Questions

What operating system does the program run on?
Red Hat Linix.

Do you provide dedicated servers?
The system is a shared server system.

In what database environment is your data stored?MySQL.

Is there FTP via the Web?

Yes, and for the highest security possible, we have developed FileManager which transfers files from the client computer to the specific hostware account of program.

Do you have the security certificate?
Yes. We have purchased and take care of the SSL Certificate.

Do you have ODBC entries?
The Catalog™ and other features of hostware® have Web based entry screens. These screens make it easy to enter data into the respective data bases.