20 July 2010, Gloucester, UK Fasthosts Internet Ltd, (www.fasthosts.co.uk), a leading web hosting provider, today launched a brand new online storage solution especially designed for archiving valuable business data. Priced from only £19.99/month+VAT, the service provides secure off-site storage space within a state-of-the-art UK data centre. The service is designed for all levels of business user, with multiple methods of uploading data, and functionality for sharing documents between teams on and off the premises. 'Cloud-based' services, such as Fasthosts Secure Online Storage, offer businesses substantial cost, scalability and security benefits. Significantly, new research of 200 UK firms(1), conducted by IDC on behalf of Fasthosts, shows 60 per cent are still not leveraging any cloud-computing and missing out on important benefits. Whilst 82 per cent recognise the need for data back-up, 69 per cent have no plans to explore cloud-based storage options, and 1 in 5 believe they will side-step cloud-computing all-together.

Fasthosts Secure Online Storage addresses the challenge businesses face in coping with the off-site storage of increasing amounts of valuable electronic data. The solution uses a highly scalable ‘cloud-based' model to deliver easy-to-use, fast and highly secure storage on demand. Users can utilise the storage as a primary file store, or as a location for back-up copies. Storage capacity is selected according to requirements and can be increased dynamically from 50 Gigabytes to a massive 2 Terabytes. As a cloud solution, the user is not limited to specific hardware for utilising the service and can up- or downscale at any time and pay only for their required usage.

All data uploaded and downloaded is transferred with SSL, is backed-up automatically and is stored securely. The solution offers flexibility in how data is uploaded - Drive Mapping (which maps the storage as a drive on their computer), web browser access (which allows drag-and-drop transfer of files), and FTP access (easily configured for advanced users). Furthermore, the solution enables users to effortlessly share documents across teams and locations.

All storage packages feature the same high level of quality and 100Mbps connectivity. Fasthosts Secure Online Storage pricing comprises 50GB for £19.99/month+VAT, 100GB for £29.99/month+VAT, 250GB for £49.99/month+VAT, 500GB for £74.99/month+VAT, 1TB for £119.99/month+VAT, and 2TB for £199.99/month+VAT. Customers are offered flexible contract options and significant discounts for annual payment.

Steve Holford, Marketing Director, Fasthosts Internet Ltd., said "Our new secure online storage solution is ideal for ensuring that valuable business data is always backed up securely and on-hand 24/7 from any computer. The speedy transfer and flexibility for access means increased efficiencies and easier remote working. There has never been a better business case for cloud-based data storage".

Fasthosts Secure Online Storage utilises its latest server hardware on the Fasthosts' Data Center on Demand (DCoD) platform. Designed in collaboration with Microsoft experts using Microsoft Dynamic Data Centre, DCoD releases the full power of the hardware and is the latest in agile, secure and highly reliable server infrastructure. As a storage provider, Fasthosts guarantees swift transfer for both uploads and downloads from any Internet enabled computer.

Data from Fasthosts' 'Cloud Attitudes' study, conducted by IDC, finds that 60 per cent of UK businesses still do not leverage any type of cloud-computing service and so miss out on key benefits such as increased performance, scalability, and cost savings. Whilst a pleasing 82 per cent of firms recognise the need for data back-up off-site, only 16 per cent are using flexible cloud-based storage options for this, and over two thirds (69 per cent) have no plans to explore cloud-computing in this way. A total of 1 in 5 believe they will side-step cloud-computing all-together. This is in contrast with attitudes to web hosting, where 57 per cent of firms are comfortable with having this hosted externally by a third party. A key reason for reluctance to embrace new cloud computing technologies is a lack of staff expertise, with 1 in 4 firms admitting this is a primary concern for them.

Holford added, "All types of business could have much to gain from exploring the cloud-based solutions open to them. Workflows can often be transformed by the better performance and flexibility these deliver, and investment costs slashed significantly. For some business owners, it may seem daunting to shift their trust in a boxed solution to a hosted one, but the latest generation of online storage is highly robust, reliable and can be an excellent way to manage their data requirements".

All data is stored within the company's state-of-the-art UK data centres, where all operations are protected against compromise by hardware, power or network failures or site access.

As a leading web host, Fasthosts offers a comprehensive range of web solutions including domain name registrations, email solutions (including mobile email services), shared web hosting, virtual servers, dedicated servers, online payment services, reseller web hosting and feature-rich broadband packages. Fasthosts is well placed to deliver business and professional users a high quality service.

Full company and product details can be found at http://www.fasthosts.co.uk/Online-storage/

(1) 209 UK companies of all sizes surveyed by IDC

About Fasthosts
Fasthosts is a leading web hosting provider. Based in the UK and operating 24x7 from their dedicated UK data centres, Fasthosts keeps over 1 million domains running smoothly and ensures over 42 million emails are delivered safely each day. All Fasthosts services can be self-managed through the award winning Fasthosts web-based control panel that provides customers with unparalleled online control, enabling them to manage hosted services including domain registrations, shared web hosting, business-class email, virtual servers, dedicated servers, software-as-a-service, internet merchant accounts and unlimited broadband. Fasthosts' maintains an award-winning, highly successful reseller channel.

For further information please contact:

Richard Stevenson
Tel: +44 (0)1452 561 857
press@fasthosts.co.uk

23 June 2010, Gloucester, UK Fasthosts Internet Ltd, (www.fasthosts.co.uk), a leading web hosting provider, today announced it has been selected as a finalist for the Microsoft Partner Awards in the Hosting Solutions Partner of the Year award category.

Steve Holford, Marketing Director, Fasthosts Internet Ltd., said "We are delighted to be recognised in this significant award. Microsoft products have always been a popular choice with our customers. However, in recent years we have gone further to investigate and develop new ways to apply Microsoft server technologies and as a result have seen excellent performance and usability benefits for the end-user".

Awards will be presented in a number of categories, with winners and finalists chosen from a pool of almost 3,000 entrants worldwide. The Hosting Solutions Partner of the Year Award honours partners who have demonstrated solution innovation and a commitment to engaging with Microsoft. This award recognises Fasthosts for teaming with Microsoft to address their customer needs through identifying new market opportunities and using technology innovation.

"Congratulations to the 2010 Partner Award finalists for delivering such creative and superior Microsoft solutions and services," said Allison Watson, Corporate Vice President, Worldwide Partner Group, Microsoft Corp. "It's incredible to see the level of expertise our partners continue to exhibit as they create and deliver innovative solutions and services to grow their businesses, meet customer needs, and drive down costs."

Fasthosts has long been regarded as an expert in Microsoft hosting, having offered Microsoft-driven web solutions since 2002. Fasthosts' award nomination follows the company's recent launch of innovative new Virtual Servers that use Hyper-V (hypervisor based) technology, the latest in Microsoft server virtualization, to harness the full power of the hardware. All Fasthosts users can also benefit from the most advanced Microsoft Server operating system yet - Windows Server 2008 R2.

Fasthosts' Data Center on Demand (DCoD) platform is the foundation of the company's virtual private server solutions. Designed in collaboration with Microsoft experts using Microsoft Dynamic Data Centre, DCoD allows the user to benefit from the latest agile, secure and highly reliable server infrastructure.

Holford added, "Microsoft technology is currently offering some of the most exciting innovations in the hosting market. The virtual servers offered from this platform are technologically superior to many other solutions, and are extremely agile, designed for both developers and businesses".

As a leading web host, Fasthosts offers a comprehensive range of web solutions including domain name registrations, email solutions (including mobile email services), shared web hosting, virtual servers, dedicated servers, online payment services, reseller web hosting and feature-rich broadband packages. Fasthosts is well placed to deliver business and professional users a high quality service. All data is hosted in Fasthosts' state-of-the-art UK based data centre.

The Microsoft Partner Awards recognise Microsoft partners that have developed and delivered exceptional Microsoft-based solutions over the past year.

Full company and product details can be found at www.fasthosts.co.uk.

About Fasthosts
Fasthosts is a leading web hosting provider. Based in the UK and operating 24x7 from their dedicated UK data centres, Fasthosts keeps over 1 million domains running smoothly and ensures over 42 million emails are delivered safely each day. All Fasthosts services can be self-managed through the award winning Fasthosts web-based control panel that provides customers with unparalleled online control, enabling them to manage hosted services including domain registrations, shared web hosting, business-class email, virtual servers, dedicated servers, software-as-a-service, internet merchant accounts and unlimited broadband. Fasthosts' maintains an award-winning, highly successful reseller channel.

For further information please contact:

Richard Stevenson
Tel: +44 (0)1452 561 857
press@fasthosts.co.uk

25 May 2010, Gloucester, UK Fasthosts Internet Ltd, (www.fasthosts.co.uk), a leading web hosting provider. The study of 1495 firms(1) finds that a worrying number still prioritise letters received over emails, and may also be alienating customers by losing emails, with 1 in 3 mislaying emailed orders at least once a quarter. Two thirds have received no training at all in the use of business email. In worrying contrast, a further survey of 1400 UK adults(2) finds that 69 per cent expect an email to be valued equally to a letter. Whilst over half of consumers (54 per cent) believe they would spend more with email-efficient firms, only 29 per cent of businesses recognise this. Furthermore, 45 per cent of Britons now expect firms to be able to email documents such as quotes and brochures, whilst 61 per cent of companies still do not offer the option.

Data from Fasthosts' 'Business Email Attitudes' study finds that a significant number of UK businesses are out of step with consumer expectations for email communication. Whilst three quarters of business owners believe email is an important tool for them, one third (34 per cent) admit to still prioritising replies to written letters when these are received. 56 per cent do not have a company policy for the time taken to respond to customer emails, and remarkably, over half (52 per cent) still do not utilise a mobile email solution such as a Smartphone when off-site.

Significantly, 58 per of firms report that customer emails have been lost or deleted in error over the past year. 1 in 3 admits to losing customer order emails at least once per quarter, and 1 in 10 firms do so at least once per month. 20 per cent of firms have received complaints as a direct result of failing to respond to customer emails, over the past year. Only 1 in 4 companies has a process in place for ensuring customer emails are fully resolved, and less than half (48 per cent) have the facility to archive emails following the completion of a customer's order. Furthermore, two thirds have received no training in any aspect of business email. Only 16 per cent of businesses have staff trained in email management.

The findings are in contrast to data of 1400 consumers that suggests the vast majority of Britons now regard their emails to companies be just as meaningful as a postal letter. Whilst 81 per cent have emailed at least one business, many firms are failing at simple aspects of email usage. 30 per cent of consumers have had emails mislaid by firms, and 36 per cent have had to re-send an email multiple times to get a response at least once during the past year. 1 in 4 (27 per cent) have experienced negative emotions such as stress or upset from having to wait for replies to emails they sent businesses.

The top email bug-bears are never receiving a reply (77 per cent), prolonged delays to replies (63 per cent) and automated replies that do not answer questions (61 per cent). Furthermore, 45 per cent of shoppers now expect all firms, irrespective of size, to be capable of emailing out electronic versions of documents such as brochures, quotations or order forms - a facility that 61 per cent of firms surveyed do not presently provide.

Steve Holford, CMO Fasthosts Internet Ltd., said "Whilst most business owners do value the convenience of email, many are failing to heed consumer expectations for how efficiently all email needs to be handled. Consumers today actively seek the use of email as a channel, and firms that neglect or lose email dialogue will lose precious revenue and reputation".

Ensuring all their emails look professional and not like SPAM has never been so important for companies. The average consumer scan-reads an email in their Inbox for less than 5 seconds before deciding whether or not it is SPAM. In fact, 1 in 4 examines each email for less than 3 seconds before deciding whether it should be discarded. Businesses can also miss out as a result of misjudging incoming emails from customers. During the past year, 27 per cent of firms surveyed have regularly deleted genuine customer emails as a result of mistaking them for SPAM.

Businesses can reduce such inefficiencies by installing email feedback forms on their website or providing email guidelines for their customers. Healthy rewards are available for UK companies willing to optimise their use of email. 54 per cent of consumers believe that they would be likely to spend more with a business if it showed it was timely and professional at responding to their emails.

Holford added, "Firms should regard their use of email in terms of customer marketing as well as administration. By investing in a professional-quality email system and the right training, any business can use the popularity of email to competitive advantage".

As a leading web host, Fasthosts offers a comprehensive range of web solutions including domain name registrations, email solutions (including mobile email services), shared web hosting, virtual servers, dedicated servers, online payment services, reseller web hosting and feature-rich broadband packages. Fasthosts is well placed to deliver a high quality service. All data is hosted in Fasthosts' state-of-the-art UK based data centre.

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

• (1) 1495 UK small companies with a website surveyed in April 2010 via electronic feedback form
• (2) 1428 UK adults surveyed by OpinionMatters in March 2010 via electronic feedback form

About Fasthosts
Fasthosts is a leading web hosting provider. Based in the UK and operating 24x7 from their dedicated UK data centres, Fasthosts keeps over 1 million domains running smoothly and ensures over 42 million emails are delivered safely each day. All Fasthosts services can be self-managed through the award winning Fasthosts web-based control panel that provides customers with unparalleled online control, enabling them to manage hosted services including domain registrations, shared web hosting, business-class email, virtual servers, dedicated servers, software-as-a-service, internet merchant accounts and unlimited broadband. Fasthosts' maintains an award-winning, highly successful reseller channel.

For further information please contact:

Richard Stevenson or Thomas Pluennecke
Tel: +44 (0)1452 561 857
press@fasthosts.co.uk

15 April 2010, Gloucester, UK Fasthosts Internet Ltd, (www.fasthosts.co.uk), a leading web hosting provider, today launched a brand new range of premium-quality shared web hosting packages that represent the company's latest step in its drive to raise the standard of UK web hosting. Priced from only £4.69/month incl. VAT, and currently offered with a 50 per cent discount for 3 months, the new packages combine huge quotas of web space with new professional-quality web building and monitoring tools, and Fasthosts' unlimited website traffic. As the market for hosted solutions continues to grow apace, the new hosting range is designed to exceed the growing technical demands of businesses and IT professionals alike.

Fasthosts' new range of Personal Hosting packages comprises of the Standard package (5GB web space), which is priced from £4.69/month incl. VAT, and the Premium package (25GB web space) priced from £8.21/month incl. VAT. Both solutions include all the tools needed to maintain a professional-quality website including SiteBuilder, Blog tool and MatrixStats. The Premium package boasts 10 FTP accounts, 10 x 1GB anti- virus/SPAM mailboxes and 1 free .UK domain. Fasthosts' new Business Hosting Packages are the Business Standard package (25GB web space), priced from £8.21/month incl. VAT, and Business Premium package (50GB web space) priced from £14.09/month incl. VAT. The flagship Business Premium delivers unlimited FTP accounts, up to 10 MYSQL databases and Load Balancing - which shares visitors over multiple web servers to maximise the uptime and speed of a website. All hosting packages are available in either Linux or Windows at no additional cost, an approach unique to Fasthosts.

A prominent feature is the powerful template-driven SiteBuilder tool, which benefits from 98 brand new design templates, faster editing and publishing, new site add-ons, RSS and Site Search. The tool is a highly effective way to build an impressive website within minutes, and is particularly well suited to small businesses. As eCommerce continues to be a key issue for all sizes of UK business, Fasthosts today launches a highly effective solution for starting an online store. The new optional SiteBuilder eShop, included within the Business Premium package, offers the functionality of specialist eCommerce software with unmatched ease of use and convenience of SiteBuilder. The shop pages are seamlessly integrated within an existing SiteBuilder website. Advanced features include unlimited product categories, 2-click PayPal integration, multiple currency support and advanced image handling.

Steve Holford, CMO Fasthosts Internet Ltd., said, "Our latest range of hosting packages sets a new benchmark for performance and value. We have built-in as much power as we can with no hidden fees or limitations. It has never been easier or more affordable to launch web project, and Fasthosts packages are designed to flex and adapt in line with your success".

Fasthosts remains the clear favourite for the web professional. Development features include ASP.NET 3.5, PHP and ASP for Windows, and PHP, Python, Perl, MS SQL 2008 databases and SSH access for Linux. SSL web space and advanced password protection are also included in the majority of packages. Business hosting packages receive £105 of free search engine advertising credit. Furthermore, Fasthosts web hosting customers enjoy the flexibility to pay monthly or yearly with a choice of contract lengths, including a new pay as you go option. Unlike many of its competitors, Fasthosts does not charge a set-up fee for instant activation.

Fasthosts' unlimited website traffic on all shared hosting means no caps or extra fees to pay that could limit traffic to your website. Unlimited traffic provides peace of mind to businesses or users who experience higher levels of traffic or fluctuations in visitors throughout the year. For UK SMEs, the ability to accept unlimited website visitors at times of high demand is essential for capitalising on peak consumer spending periods.

As a leading web host, Fasthosts is well placed to deliver a high quality service. Customers receive 24/7 technical support by phone or email. All data is hosted in Fasthosts' state-of-the-art UK based data centre. Fasthosts offers a comprehensive range of web solutions including domain name registrations, email solutions (including mobile email services), shared web hosting, virtual servers, dedicated servers, online payment services, reseller web hosting and feature-rich broadband packages.

Full details of the new shared hosting range can be found at http://www.fasthosts.co.uk/hosting/

About Fasthosts
Fasthosts is a leading web hosting provider. Based in the UK and operating 24x7 from their dedicated UK data centres, Fasthosts keeps over 1 million domains running smoothly and ensures over 42 million emails are delivered safely each day. All Fasthosts services can be self-managed through the award winning Fasthosts web-based control panel that provides customers with unparalleled online control, enabling them to manage hosted services including domain registrations, shared web hosting, business-class email, virtual servers, dedicated servers, software-as-a-service, internet merchant accounts and unlimited broadband. Fasthosts' maintains an award-winning, highly successful reseller channel.

For further information please contact:

Richard Stevenson or Thomas Pluennecke
Tel: +44 (0)1452 561 857
press@fasthosts.co.uk

10 March 2010, Gloucester, UK Fasthosts Internet Ltd, (www.fasthosts.co.uk), a leading web hosting provider, today introduced a new range of virtual servers that combine high-speed performance, scalability and resource monitoring. Designed to scale with the changing needs of businesses and their customers, RAM, CPU, disk space, and IP addresses can all be determined by the user and dynamically adjusted. With prices starting from £29.32/month+VAT, the Virtual Servers deliver dedicated resources, the latest Windows 2008 R2 operating system and full remote access and resource monitoring. The launch comes as a study of 500 UK firms finds that over one third expect to be using a virtual server solution in the coming year. For businesses, virtualised solutions can provide greater agility and efficiency, and when combined with Fasthosts' connectivity and unlimited bandwidth, offer an impressive business case.

Fasthosts Virtual Servers are based on Microsoft Dynamic Data Center architecture, meaning that resources are dedicated but also adaptable dynamically and can be upgraded or reconfigured easily without losing data or functionality. Fasthosts customers can select from a range of suggested configurations or design a server by choosing capacity, processor power and control settings at order, and are free to modify these at any point in time. By re-adjusting their server, the user only pays for the resources they need and so saves money and helps the environment.

All servers receive the power of Intel Xeon Quad-Core processors and dedicated RAM. Fasthosts has used Hyper-V (hypervisor based) technology, the latest in Microsoft server virtualization, to harness the full power of the hardware. All users can benefit from the most advanced Microsoft Server operating system yet - Windows Server 2008 R2. Furthermore, Fasthosts provides free Resource Monitoring via the user Control Panel. Customers can measure CPU, RAM, disk space and network usage in real-time, and so keep an accurate check on their requirements. For business users and IT professionals alike, the ability to adapt to peaks and troughs in demand with speed and at low cost, makes the task of managing a server far simpler and improves ROI.

The Virtual Server range allows a choice of up to 4 Virtual CPUs, RAM ranging from 1GB to 16GB and a hard-disk space of up to 1TB. An entry-level server package with 1 vCPU, 1GB RAM and 80GB hard-disk is priced at only £29.32/month+VAT. All packages benefit from 100Mbps connectivity, unlimited bandwidth and are available on a variety of contract options.

Steve Holford, CMO Fasthosts Internet Ltd., said, "As a long-standing expert for Microsoft web hosting, we have taken our time to invest in and develop a range of virtual servers that deliver the performance and strength traditionally only seen with dedicated server hardware. Microsoft Hyper-V virtualisation is well suited to our robust network and connectivity. For even the most demanding pro users, we expect virtual servers to be a popular choice".

Fasthosts Virtual Servers benefit from greatly increased redundancy, built-in. Clustered servers provide automatic fail-over and combine with RAID disk arrays to enhance reliability. Users have full access to their server via remote desktop connection, and can apply the powerful Parallels PLESK 9 Control Panel, for effective deployment and server management. Packages also include Windows Platform Installer 2.0 which provides effortless implementation of the latest Windows compatible applications. Full details of the new Virtual Server range can be found at http://www.fasthosts.co.uk/virtual-servers/

Today, Fasthosts releases data from a study of 500 UK firms using a server that finds 19 per cent have already chosen a virtual server solution. A further 20 per cent expect to implement a virtual server solution in the coming year. Half of firms wish to utilise only one server, suggesting that a flexible virtual server could be ideal. At over half of firms (55 per cent), the owner/CEO makes the decision on which server technology to implement. The data also identifies server monitoring and file back-up services are becoming increasingly important for businesses, these topping their wish-list for additional services.

Holford added, "The study suggests that companies are becoming increasingly aware of virtualised solutions as an option. A virtual server is an accessible and compelling means for a business to begin exploring ‘cloud' type services without compromising on performance or security. The economies delivered by virtualisation are ideal for rapidly growing businesses".

As a leading web host, Fasthosts offers a comprehensive range of web solutions including domain name registrations, email solutions (including mobile email services), shared web hosting, dedicated servers, online payment services, reseller web hosting and feature-rich broadband packages.

For more information see the website at http://www.fasthosts.co.uk

About Fasthosts
Fasthosts is a leading web hosting provider. Based in the UK and operating 24x7 from their dedicated UK data centres, Fasthosts keeps over 1 million domains running smoothly and ensures over 6 million emails are delivered safely each day. All Fasthosts services can be self-managed through the award winning Fasthosts web-based control panel that provides customers with unparalleled online control, enabling them to manage hosted services including domain registrations, shared web hosting, business-class email, dedicated servers, software-as-a-service, internet merchant accounts and unlimited broadband. Fasthosts' maintains an award-winning, highly successful reseller channel.

1. 506 UK firms using a server solution surveyed via electronic feedback form.

For further information please contact:

Richard Stevenson or Thomas Pluennecke
Tel: +44 (0)1452 561 857
press@fasthosts.co.uk

11 February 2010, Gloucester, UK A startling number of web professionals are using unlicensed or pirated software to create websites, according to research released today by Fasthosts Internet Ltd, (www.fasthosts.co.uk), a leading web hosting provider. The poll of 500 web designers conducted with .NET magazine (www.netmag.co.uk) found that more than half of web designers and developers admit to having worked in an environment where they used unlicensed web design software. As licences for web design software can often cost small agencies thousands of pounds, recent economic pressures are a likely factor in the problem. Fasthosts recently announced its work with Microsoft to promote the WebsiteSpark program - an initiative that provides eligible users with free licenses for Microsoft Expression® and Visual Studio® software. The initiative is a good example of how web professionals can access software through legitimate schemes and so avoid the risks of using unlicensed software.

According to Fasthosts' survey of .NET magazine readers, the use of unlicensed software by web professionals is rife in the UK. 59 per cent of those surveyed have placed themselves, their colleagues and their work at risk by using unlicensed software to create websites. If a worker uses software without a license number, or if the license only entitles its use for an individual machine and it is copied and installed on multiple computers, the company is likely to be breaking the law - often punishable with a substantial fine. In a recently reported case, a London-based website design agency was fined a 5-figure sum for its use of illegal software.

There is also strong evidence that the use of unlicensed software can be a false economy - users often face bugs and do not benefit from access to support services which can result in downtime and delays. Comments from those who took the poll suggest that the use of illegal software is a common cause of frustration and concern for the web design community. A number of those affected describe tensions between those responsible for IT budgets and licences, and creative staff expected to use the software.

Steve Holford, CMO Fasthosts Internet Ltd., said, "Great web projects can often rely on the latest software and at times businesses may be tempted to cut corners with their software licenses. Web designers should not struggle with sub-standard software or more importantly jeopardise their future by using illegal software".

Dan Oliver, Editor of .NET magazine, comments, "With tight deadlines, and tighter budgets, it's understandable - though clearly not recommended - to hear of people being asked to use pirated software. It's unrealistic to put the onus on employees, the message needs to get through to employers. We're hoping that technologies such as SaaS can go some way to lessening the problem of pirated software in the web design industry".

FAST (Federation Against Software Theft) has an ‘employee whistle-blowing' campaign to tackle employers who pressurise staff into installing illegal software. John Lovelock, Chief Executive of FAST, comments, "The software industry is a vital part of the economy and deserves the same protection as counterfeit consumer goods. We want workers to know there is support and the means to combat any illegal behaviour by contacting us via our website www.fast.org, and have protection in law under the Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998 (Whistleblower Act). We hope that by raising awareness of the laws protecting employees, the number willing to blow the whistle will increase and reduce the illegal use of software," added Lovelock.

Nowadays there are industry schemes that can provide eligible web pros with free access to fully licensed professional software. For example, Microsoft's WebsiteSpark program offers 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.

Holford added, "Smaller web agencies, perhaps more prone to budget constraints, should be aware that there are schemes out there designed to help. WebsiteSpark is an apt example that delivers exactly what they need most - free tools and practical help. Your web host can be a good source of advice on the latest initiatives available".

Retailers can take precautions against fluctuations in website performance by ensuring that their website design and databases are optimised, and by using web hosting with unlimited traffic levels and ‘load-balancing' - the real-time monitoring of resource that can switch visitors to the most optimal web server at that time. Retailers of all sizes are advised to regularly review the web hosting resources they have in place. Nowadays, it is vital to leverage hosting that will not restrict visits or levy charges for increases in bandwidth. Large web hosts such as Fasthosts provide tools for business owners to monitor their website bandwidth usage, including filtered reports and email alerts.

As a long-standing expert for MS web hosting, Fasthosts is a trusted partner to thousands of web professionals. Combined with Fasthosts' current price reductions on Windows Server packages, now is an opportune time for users to refresh their access to Microsoft web development solutions. Free support and training opportunities from the WebsiteSpark program include unlimited access to technical newsgroups on MSDN, unlimited program support and two technical support consultations per membership, as well as relevant events and activities. More details can be found at www.fasthosts.co.uk/dedicatedservers/microsoft-websitespark-program or by calling 0844 583 0777.

For further information please contact:

Richard Stevenson or Thomas Pluennecke
Tel: +44 (0)1452 561 857
press@fasthosts.co.uk

15 December 2009, Gloucester, UK: The majority of online shoppers continue to experience ‘virtual' shop queues in the run up to Christmas, according to research released today by Fasthosts Internet Ltd, (www.fasthosts.co.uk), a leading web hosting provider. The study of 1500 consumers found that a remarkable 80 per cent of shoppers encounter slow working websites at Christmas time, and 30 per cent believe that websites perform more slowly in the run up to the holiday season. An alarmingly 42 per cent of consumers have abandoned purchases on slow running sites whilst buying their gifts, and 34 per cent are more likely to switch to a competitor's website during this period. Whilst many firms will be hoping for brisk sales this Christmas, the data warns that many online consumers are alienated by technical glitches. Retailers are advised to check that their website is hosted with a quality provider, offering unlimited traffic with no throttling of its performance.

Data from Fasthosts' ‘Seasonal Web Sales' study finds that the majority of online shoppers experience website usability issues at this time of the year. 80 per cent of shoppers have used a slow website when Christmas shopping around one third believes that retailer websites work more slowly than at other times of the year. A total of 44 per cent of shoppers have faced delays in the eCommerce process, including slower product searches, delayed payment processes and delays in receiving emailed confirmations. 1 in 4 shoppers (24 per cent) believe that retailers add too many seasonal products and offers to their websites, and so make the sites more difficult to navigate.

Fasthosts Dedicated Server packages are the ideal solution for IT professionals and businesses that require reliable server operations without the capital expenditure investment in the servers or in the physical space associated with running hardware on their premises 24/7. The latest-spec Intel processor in every Fasthosts server delivers powerful, energy-efficient performance so you can run several intensive programs at once without slowing down.

A significant number of Britons will sidestep brand loyalty in favour of speed and abandon a preferred retailer's site for a competitor's website because of the pressure of Christmas shopping. 1 in 3 shoppers (34 per cent) admit to being more likely to abandon a slow running retail website at Christmas than at other times of the year. Interestingly, women more inclined to switch to an alternative if they are experiencing problems with a retailer's website (44 per cent compared to 39 per cent of men). On average, those in northern regions appear to be the most impatient. 50 per cent of Scots and 49 per cent of respondents in Yorkshire abandoned purchases because of speed, as compared to 39 per cent in London and 36 per cent in the South West. Younger age groups are more likely to form a negative impression of a business based on a slow website (36 per cent of under 25s, as compared to 25 per cent of those aged 45-54). This should act as a warning to Britain's retailers, as customers will clearly no longer tolerate businesses that have poor hosting or web design in place.

Slow websites can cause brand-damage to the retailers concerned. 28 per cent of shoppers admit to feeling more negatively towards retailers as a result of such stress. Shoppers in the North West are the least forgiving with 34 per cent believing their opinion of retailers are negatively impacted. It would appear that women feel more pressured by the problem than male shoppers. 1 in 5 women (22 per cent) have suffered negative emotions from using slow websites, compared to 18 per cent of men. Once again, the problem appears to be decrease with age, with those aged 16-24 most affected.

Steve Holford, CMO Fasthosts Internet Ltd., said "The data shows that whilst many firms sell successfully online, usability can take a real knock at the most crucial time of the year. Shoppers today are more impatient and unforgiving than ever before, and are ready to source an alternative. Retailers must ensure that their hosting responds dynamically with increases in demand or they will lose revenue and reputation".

Graham Jones, Internet Psychologist (www.grahamjones.co.uk), advises, "In these days of high speed broadband, Internet shoppers expect rapid responses. If your web site doesn't react quickly, if your server platform has technical problems or inadequacies, it's almost certain you are losing purchasers".

Holford added, "In an attempt to maximise sales and reduce costs, many retailers can forget the basics of good web design and hosting. Shoppers nowadays will only complete a sale if the whole experience is speedy and stable. Retailers should review their web infrastructure before the Christmas rush, and make regular tests throughout the period to check that their hosting is coping with demand".

Retailers can take precautions against fluctuations in website performance by ensuring that their website design and databases are optimised, and by using web hosting with unlimited traffic levels and ‘load-balancing' - the real-time monitoring of resource that can switch visitors to the most optimal web server at that time. Retailers of all sizes are advised to regularly review the web hosting resources they have in place. Nowadays, it is vital to leverage hosting that will not restrict visits or levy charges for increases in bandwidth. Large web hosts such as Fasthosts provide tools for business owners to monitor their website bandwidth usage, including filtered reports and email alerts.

As a leading web host, Fasthosts delivers an extensive range of high-performance web solutions for businesses. Businesses are assured that Fasthosts guarantees 99.9% or higher dedicated server uptime. Products include shared web hosting, dedicated servers, domain name registrations, email solutions (including mobile email services), reseller web hosting and feature-rich broadband packages.

For more information see the website at http://www.fasthosts.co.uk

For further information please contact:

Richard Stevenson or Thomas Pluennecke
Tel: +44 (0)1452 561 857
press@fasthosts.co.uk

26 October 2009, Gloucester, UK: IT professionals are offered an impressive range of new high-performance dedicated servers at low prices, today debuted by Fasthosts Internet Ltd, (www.fasthosts.co.uk), a leading web hosting provider. Priced from only £59/month+VAT, the new solutions feature the latest Intel Dual Core, Quad Core or Xeon Quad Core processors, 100Mbps connection and Fasthosts' unlimited bandwidth. Deployed instantly and available in either Linux or Microsoft operating systems, the servers provide a reliable, secure and highly flexible server platform. Fasthosts' robust network and unlimited data transfer would be of benefit to individuals and enterprises that generate or process large volumes of data.

Dedicated servers are a cost effective and reliable solution for hosting core IT infrastructure such as websites or business application software. They provide a secure and private environment for the user's applications to be operated and data to be stored. A business user enjoys the full power of the hardware and guaranteed access to bandwidth, and retains complete hands on (KVM) remote control of their server at all times. Each Fasthosts server is maintained with the latest operating system updates to maximise efficiency and security.

Fasthosts Dedicated Server packages are the ideal solution for IT professionals and businesses that require reliable server operations without the capital expenditure investment in the servers or in the physical space associated with running hardware on their premises 24/7. The latest-spec Intel processor in every Fasthosts server delivers powerful, energy-efficient performance so you can run several intensive programs at once without slowing down.

Fasthosts' brand new range of Dedicated Server packages comprises the DS300 (Dual Core & 2GB RAM), priced from only £59/month+VAT, DS500 (Dual Core & 4GB RAM), priced from £79/month+VAT, the DS700 (Quad Core & 8GB RAM), priced from £119/month+VAT, DS900X (Xeon Quad Core & 8GB RAM), priced from £149/month+VAT, and the DS1000XX (Xeon Quad Core & 16GB RAM), priced from £209/month + VAT. All packages are currently offered with 1 month free. Servers are available in either Linux or Windows configurations and feature full admin control as well as Fasthosts' unlimited bandwidth and 100Mbps high-speed virtual data pipe. Technical support is provided 24/7 from UK by email or phone.

Steve Holford, CMO Fasthosts Internet Ltd., said "We have upgraded and invested in our Dedicated Server range to ensure unbeatable service delivery and excellent ROI for business users. Put simply, the combination of the latest Intel technology and free high-speed bandwidth is an excellent proposition for many users. In an increasingly digital economy, success often begins with a robust and reliable server access that you have confidence will be working for you round the clock, day in day out, with all the benefits, but none of the high costs of running it as an internal operation".

Fasthosts offer a range of powerful control panels enabling the user to set up websites and applications quickly and easily, meaning more time to focus on running their business. For only £14.99/month+VAT, the award-winning Plesk 9 control panel interface provides ultra-intuitive server maintenance and control. Fully customisable and featuring the Powerpack bundle, Fasthosts currently offers Plesk 9 with 1 month free.

Businesses are assured that Fasthosts guarantees 99.9% or higher server uptime. Servers are located within the company's state-of-the-art UK data centres, where all operations are protected against compromise by hardware, power or network failures or unapproved site access.

As a leading web host, Fasthosts offers a comprehensive range of web solutions including domain name registrations, email solutions (including mobile email services), shared web hosting, online payment services, reseller web hosting and feature-rich broadband packages.

For more information see the website at http://www.fasthosts.co.uk/dedicatedservers/

For further information please contact:

Richard Stevenson or Thomas Pluennecke
Tel: +44 (0)1452 561 857
press@fasthosts.co.uk

13 October 2009, Gloucester, UK: Fasthosts Internet Ltd (www.fasthosts.co.uk), a leading web hosting provider, today 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.

Microsoft's 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 (www.skylightmedia.co.uk), is a Fasthosts customer who enrolled in the WebsiteSpark program to help boost the web design side of the business. Pryce comments, "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".

As a long-standing expert for MS web hosting, Fasthosts is a trusted partner to thousands of web professionals. Combined with Fasthosts' current price reductions on Windows Server packages, now is an opportune time for users to refresh their access to Microsoft web development solutions. Free support and training opportunities from the WebsiteSpark program include unlimited access to technical newsgroups on MSDN, unlimited program support and two technical support consultations per membership, as well as relevant events and activities. More details can be found at www.fasthosts.co.uk/dedicatedservers/microsoft-websitespark-program or by calling 0844 583 0777.

Fasthosts' range of Windows Server packages for the WebsiteSpark program comprises the DS250 (80GB disk space), currently priced from £39/month+VAT, DS450 (250GB disk space), priced from £59/month+VAT, the DS650 (500GB disk space), now priced from £89/month+VAT and the powerful DS850 (1000GB disk space), priced from an impressive £149/month+VAT. All servers feature root admin access and remote KVM connection.

Holford added, "Getting the right platform in place frees up creative professionals to focus on creating amazing campaigns. Microsoft technology offers some of the most exciting functionality on the market".

As a leading web host, Fasthosts offers a comprehensive range of web solutions including domain name registrations, email solutions (including mobile email services), shared web hosting, dedicated servers, online payment services, reseller web hosting and feature-rich broadband packages.

About Fasthosts
Fasthosts is the UK's number one web hosting company. Based in the UK and operating 24x7 from their dedicated UK data centres, Fasthosts keeps over 1 million domains running smoothly and ensures over 6 million emails are delivered safely each day. All Fasthosts services can be self-managed through the award winning Fasthosts web-based control panel that provides customers with unparalleled online control, enabling them to manage hosted services including domain registrations, shared web hosting, business-class email, dedicated servers, software-as-a-service, internet merchant accounts and unlimited broadband. Fasthosts' highly successful reseller channel has recently been rated Number 1 for reseller hosting by industry portal Web Host Directory.

For further information please contact:

Richard Stevenson or Thomas Pluennecke
Tel: +44 (0)1452 561 857
press@fasthosts.co.uk

21 September 2009, Gloucester, UK: 43 per cent of UK companies admit that they have no quantifiable method of measuring whether their website is effective, according to research released today Fasthosts Internet Ltd, (www.fasthosts.co.uk), a leading web hosting provider and domain name registrar. The study of 430 UK firms(1) 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. 1 in 4 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 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 that measure their website look at the click-through rates to individual sections of the website. This exercise can be invaluable in enabling a business to see where consumer interest lies and whether visits are being converted into sales.

Steve Holford, CMO Fasthosts Internet Ltd., said, "In today's difficult economic climate, the web has never been more relevant for every type of UK enterprise. However, a huge number of firms continue to invest blindly in a web presence without checking whether it is earning its keep. Irrespective of the scale of web project, every business will benefit from using simple statistics to monitor efficiencies and ensure that every visitor is being capitalised upon".

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. Since setting up their website, the majority of companies surveyed (62 per cent) have not taken any external advice about the effectiveness of their website.

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. Within a few clicks, business users can view their website in a range of useful ways - traffic by geographic location, referrer URLs, search engine keyword referrals, page popularity and visitor session lengths. Day-to-day, such tools can be a valuable asset for swiftly identifying problems with web design or navigation.

Holford added, "By taking note of their website statistics and making necessary changes, many companies we work with enjoy a real fiscal impact. With increased visibility and sales from a successful website, a business owner will grow faith in online markets and the role they can play in achieving a business plan".

As a leading web host, Fasthosts offers a comprehensive range of web solutions including domain name registrations, email solutions (including mobile email services), shared web hosting, dedicated servers, online payment services, reseller web hosting and feature-rich broadband packages.

For more information on Fasthosts, see the website at www.fasthosts.co.uk

(1) 431 UK businesses with a website surveyed via electronic feedback form