15 June 2009, Gloucester, UK: Fasthosts Internet Ltd, (www.fasthosts.co.uk), a leading web hosting provider, today warned UK businesses not to be tempted to copy material from other companies' websites. The web host has seen an 89 per cent rise in the number of content disputes involving websites over the past year, most commonly where businesses have reported that website material has been replicated without permission. The company recommends that users always seek permission to use online material, however small, from the relevant website owner. Fasthosts also released the results of a survey of 152 UK businesses which finds that more than one third (39 per cent) admit to currently feeling envious of a website belonging to a competitor. 1 in 10 businesses surveyed had at least one item of their own website copied during the past year. The data lends weight to the theory that the challenging economy and increasingly competitive online marketplace is perhaps leading more small firms to cut corners and plagiarise online.

Nowadays, a company website is viewed by most enterprises as an integral part of its brand and public profile. However, it appears that an alarming number of UK firms are finding that material (such as artwork, descriptive text or product images) has been copied from their website and published elsewhere. The problem varies from the occasional image being used to entire website designs being replicated. The practice can lead to consumers becoming confused, or even being misled into purchasing from the wrong company.

According to Fasthosts, there has been an 89 per cent increase in the number of content disputes reported to its in-house Abuse Department from April 2008 to April 2009. The company reports that in many cases, businesses did not realise that copying items of online material could land them in trouble. A survey of 152 UK businesses(1) commissioned by Fasthosts finds that ‘web envy' can be a real temptation for time-stretched business owners. 39 per cent of owners surveyed admit that they are presently envious of the website of a closely competing business. At the same time, 1 in 4 are considering reducing their use of external website design services in order to cut costs. A recent study by Fasthosts underlined the pressure on small business owners to maximise their use of the web - the average company rates their website at 6 out of 10 for effectiveness, whilst it also aims to treble its online revenue in 2009.

Steve Holford, CMO Fasthosts Internet, said "Particularly in a challenging economic climate, business owners may be tempted by the quick-fix of copying another firm's work. Replicating material for commercial use often breaches copyright. Always obtain permission before using anybody's website material".

Significantly, the Fasthosts survey also finds that 10 per cent of participants had at least one item of their own company website copied by a third party between March 2008 and March 2009. Amongst the sample, the issue was twice as common as cyber-squatting or online security breaches. Affected users should contact the provider hosting the offending website who should then intervene.

There are a great many ways to enhance a business website swiftly, affordably and without infringing copyrights. For example, Fotolia.co.uk is an excellent source of royalty free stock images on a huge range of areas. Businesses should also consider adding features such as a blog, photo gallery or video or podcast elements. Business users can always ask their web host for pointers.

Holford added, "Website envy is not new, but the tough economy appears to have led more companies to act unfairly upon it. Businesses will gain a better foothold on the Web and earn most value through a regular output of their own compelling material, and applying time to their website in small manageable steps".

As a leading web host, Fasthosts is well placed to deliver a high quality hosting service to businesses. The company 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) 152 UK businesses with 1-5 employees with a website interviewed via electronic feedback form

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.

7 May 2009, Gloucester, UK: Fasthosts Internet Ltd, (www.fasthosts.co.uk), a leading UK web host, today launched a brand new reseller platform for its UK reseller partners. The solution offers a highly effective platform for structuring and performing a reseller hosting operation. The Fasthosts Reseller package, priced at £50/month+VAT, delivers access to a range of customisable web solutions including hosting, domains and email products at discounted reseller rates and features unlimited web space and bandwidth. Presently, new resellers will benefit from a 6 months free offer, allowing them to build their reseller business with no subscription costs. Fasthosts' new platform sets a new standard in enabling resellers to develop a profitable business in this growing sector.

Reseller web hosting offers a highly profitable business opportunity for IT professionals and entrepreneurs. Resellers can combine re-branded white-label web solutions with their own services, such as web design, programming or IT advice, to create tailored services for niche markets and so charge premium prices. Users earn recurring profits on the items they sell, are free to set their own price points and may charge for free elements such as unlimited web space, website traffic and email accounts.

Fasthosts' new reseller platform provides a market-leading level of usability, transparency and control for a reseller. The Fasthosts Reseller package, currently available with 3 months free, offers a high degree of freedom to structure hosting plans - resellers can create a customised package for each end customer, design and create their own range of packages or simply resell Fasthosts' own off-the-shelf packages. This flexibility means that resellers can tailor their services closely to their customers' needs and remain competitive.

Fasthosts' Reseller Control Dashboard has been re-engineered to reduce administration for resellers, improve efficiency and is highly intuitive. The custom branding tools enable the reseller to customise their customers' control panels, webmail and SiteBuilders. Within the package, the reseller calculator provides instant cost transparency and the advanced customer management area provides an excellent overview of a reseller's hosting business.

Stephen Holford, Chief Marketing Officer, Fasthosts Internet said "We are focused on making sure our resellers can grow a successful and profitable business, even in this tough economic climate. Our service enables you to not only create your own brand, but also create your own packages. The new platform itself is designed to satisfy the technical needs of a demanding hosting provider and also inspire the complete beginner".

Fasthosts' philosophy for reseller hosting is designed to free resellers to achieve the best possible business model. Fasthosts provides both Linux and MS web hosting, a comprehensive range of domain name registrations and award winning MS Exchange email packages for resale. Other reseller hosting providers can place limits on web space per end customer and levy expensive charges for bandwidth used. Fasthosts removes these risks with its unlimited web spaceand bandwidth. While resellers are free to make whatever charges they wish, Fasthosts resellers will themselves never face their users being cut-off or unexpected charges from their provider.

Another unique aspect of Fasthosts' reseller operation is the option to sell an off-the-shelf Fasthosts hosting plan that is provided free of charge to its resellers. The high quality free hosting package, one of a range of off-the-shelf plans available, has 10GB web space allowance, 5 FTP Accounts, unlimited email accounts and is ASP / PHP5 / Perl compatible. The package is permanently available for resellers to sell on an unlimited basis and is totally free of reseller charges, meaning a remarkable 100 per cent profit on each one sold.

In recent months, Fasthosts has promoted reseller hosting as a low risk and profitable way to develop an IT related enterprise. Recent research conducted by the company showed that 80 per cent of companies that begin to resell web hosting in addition to their regular products or services earn a profit from the practice within 1 year. By offering web solutions, many can bolster their revenues and prolong client relationships.

Holford added, "As a reseller hosting specialist, Fasthosts aims to deliver its resellers unrivalled support and innovation in equal measures".

As a reseller hosting specialist and the UK's number 1 reseller web host, Fasthosts is well placed to offer a high quality reseller web hosting service. The company provides its UK resellers with 24/7 dedicated service with UK based technical support via phone or email. All UK customer websites are hosted within the company's state-of-the-art data centre in Gloucester, and benefit from high-speed connectivity.

For more information on Fasthosts and reseller web hosting, see the website at www.fasthosts.co.uk.

27 April 2009, Gloucester, UK: 1 in 3 UK businesses (33 per cent) admit to neglecting necessary changes to their website because they lack the time to address them, according to research revealed today by Fasthosts Internet Ltd, (www.fasthosts.co.uk), a leading web hosting company. The survey of 145 UK businesses found that whilst two thirds of firms know of aspects of their website that require attention, around one third (32 per cent) repeatedly neglect making the changes in favour of spending the time on other aspects of the business. The average small company rates their website at 6 out of 10 for effectiveness, but also aims to treble the income generated by their website during 2009. The research suggests a clear discrepancy between business owners' online ambitions and how much time they currently invest.

As their shop window to the world, the majority of UK companies recognise that having a web presence is a vital aspect of modern business. However, the vast majority of businesses (69 per cent) are aware of aspects of their website that are in need of attention. 1 in 4 companies (27 per cent) are unhappy with their website design and a further 25 per cent are concerned that their website lacks methods to communicate with customers. 1 in 5 (20 per cent) seek additional ecommerce functionality, 18 per cent need to replace outdated images, and around 1 in 10 wish to replace their entire website.

Whilst there are plenty of products and services on the market to help enhance a business website, 1 in 3 owners admit to being floored by a simple lack of time. During the first quarter of 2009, a further 32 per cent have repeatedly sidelined changes to their website after prioritising other off-line areas of their enterprise. For 23 per cent of businesses the issue is a lack of funds, and 3 per cent simply forget to progress the work. The figures are in alarming contrast to the tough targets that the same businesses have set themselves for online activity this year. Some 71 per cent have the aim to increase their overall visibility on the Web during 2009. Over half of businesses (55 per cent) aim to grow the size of their website in the coming year, and 1 in 5 (22 per cent) intend to begin online advertising efforts. 1 in 4 companies (24 per cent) were either using social networks to promote sales, or were planning to explore this area this year.

Significantly, the average business currently earns 10 per cent of its total sales revenue as a direct result of its website, but as part of its plans for 2009, seeks to increase this income to between 21-30 per cent of total sales revenue during the coming year. For at least 1 in 3 businesses, it is unlikely that such online growth can be achieved without addressing outstanding website issues.

Steve Holford, CMO Fasthosts Internet, said "In challenging economic conditions, business owners are more stretched for time and resources than ever. However, it is important to remember that often the simplest improvements to a website can make a noticeable impact on sales conversion rates. Even a modest business website must receive regular attention to fulfil its potential".

Fasthosts' research would suggest that UK businesses risk missing their online targets unless they can prioritise the work that their websites require. The issue is further supported by the fact that 1 in 4 respondents (26 per cent) admit that a tough operating conditions has either already led them or may still lead them to cut-back on external consultants for their website such as web designers or IT advisors.

The majority of companies (47 per cent) admit that they are currently finding competing online to be 'challenging'. The average business appraises its own website to score 60 per cent for overall effectiveness, perhaps indicating that even small companies are realistic about the expectations of online shoppers today.

However, British businesses remain committed to conquering the Web. As UK online spending continues to snowball, business owners clearly recognise the value in investing in an online presence. Some 94 per cent believe that every size of enterprise should have a website, and 79 per cent would not wish to go back to the days of solely off-line trading.

Holford added, "Businesses can often find the Internet to be as challenging as the high street. However, a big flashy website is not a prerequisite to achieving online sales growth. With a realistic online strategy and a consistent commitment of time and resource, every enterprise can better achieve their online potential this year".

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

7 April 2009, Gloucester, UK: Fasthosts Internet Ltd, home to more websites than any other UK provider, today rolled out an offer that provides 'Buy One, Get One Free' on domain names registered until 31 May 2009. Customers who register a .com domain, will receive a free .co.uk registration for 2 years. Fasthosts' offer, with no catches or ties, is a great opportunity for small businesses and organisations to expand their visibility online and better protect their brand identity for free.

According to figures released in March by the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO), there has been a record growth in reported cases of cybersquatting in 2008. Whilst multi-national corporate disputes often hit the headlines, smaller UK enterprises can sometimes struggle to defend their brands and stop parties from profiting from their brands. In a challenging economic climate, the cost and time involved in disputing a web identity case is of course unwelcome.

Fasthosts latest offer is designed to help UK companies secure domain names that may reduce their risk to cybersquatting. Customers simply register any .com domain registration, priced at £8.89/year+VAT, before end of May 2009 and receive a 2 year .uk domain registration of their choice (such as .co.uk), worth £5.90+VAT, absolutely free.

Steve Holford, CMO Fasthosts Internet Ltd, said "Our 'Buy One, Get One Free' deal is the ideal opportunity for businesses to secure additional domains similar or associated with their identity. Many cases of cybersquatting surround typos of company names, so these can sometimes be a prudent acquisition. Even some of the biggest online brands in the world have been caught out. All companies with a web presence should review their domain options periodically".

As the UK's largest 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

10 February 2009, Gloucester, UK: More than 1 in 3 (35 per cent) of UK businesses with a website make no effort to optimise their position within Internet Search Engines, according to research released today by Fasthosts Internet Ltd, (www.fasthosts.co.uk), the UK's number one web hosting company. Worryingly, the survey of 405 UK businesses found that many business owners are unaware of how search listings are compiled, and are confused over the cost and time required to optimise their own rankings. A further survey over 1600 UK consumers found that consumers today are heavily reliant on search engines to find retailers, and have a strong preference for 'Organic' or main search engine results as opposed to additional 'Sponsored' links which businesses pay to display, with more than 1 in 3 people (38 per cent) choosing to ignore these when they appear. Fasthosts' data also reveals that the proportion of UK businesses that do not submit their websites to search engines has fallen from 49 per cent in 2006 to only 17 per cent in 2009.

As our gateways to the Web, Internet Search Engines are the most commonly used websites for the majority of Britons. However, Fasthosts' 'Online Search For Business Survey' found that one third of British businesses are reducing their chances of being found online by failing to optimise their search rankings. Fasthosts' survey also found that 40 per cent of business owners either have no idea or an inaccurate view of how online search results are determined. Search engine results are, in fact, ordered according to a combination of relevance to search terms and optimisation techniques used by the individual website owners.

Around 1 in 5 business owners (19 per cent) incorrectly believe that the order of search engine results cannot be influenced by the publishers of websites such as themselves. A further 12 per cent suspect that results are ordered entirely according to how much has been paid by the businesses listed.

Thus, it is perhaps unsurprising that 1 in 3 companies (35 per cent) still do not make any efforts to optimise their search rankings, making them more difficult to find online as a result. When this figure is combined with the 17 per cent completely absent from search engines, a very alarming half (52 per cent) of all British businesses are not benefiting from 'Search Engine Optimisation' (SEO) - a vital commercial practice in 2009. Given that over two thirds (69 per cent) of companies recognise that consumers often rely on main search results to find online retailers, it is remarkable that so many businesses remain on the sidelines.

Steve Holford, Chief Marketing Officer, Fasthosts Internet Ltd, said "No business today can afford to neglect its position within search engines. In learning the basics of how Internet search works, a business owner will appreciate what a powerful impact it can make on their sales function".

Widespread confusion amongst business owners over the cost and time involved with SEO could be a potential reason for many enterprises neglecting the issue. A third of owners (33 per cent) surveyed believe that it would not be possible to implement any optimisation themselves using an SEO tool. 1 in 5 owners (22 per cent) believe that it would be 'challenging' or 'impossible' to achieve any improvement of their rankings themselves.

Furthermore, two thirds of companies (68 per cent) over-estimate the cost of optimising their rankings, with 40 per cent over-estimating the cost of an SEO tool by at least 3 times. Whilst understandably, many businesses may be reluctant to make large investments online, the business case for SEO solutions is highly impressive. From only £100 a year, a company can implement a solution that will ensure improved rankings.

A further study by Fasthosts of 1600 UK adults, exploring the public's day-to-day use of search engines, found that Britons have a strong preference for 'Organic' or main search results as opposed to additional 'Sponsored' links. More than 1 in 3 people (38 per cent) claim to ignore these whenever they appear. The findings further underline the need to perform search engine optimisation for business websites. With two thirds of web users (66 per cent) reporting that they always pay attention first to main results, businesses should ensure that their website has an optimal structure and content for search engines. By choosing and 'tagging' one main keyword or short phrase for each page of their website, a business can encourage search engines to associate the page with that phrase.

Today, there are web-based tools available which any business can use to improve their position within search engines. For example, Fasthosts TrafficDriver, available from only £24 per year+VAT, will submit a business website to hundreds of search engines worldwide and guarantee a Google listing. TrafficDriver also generates detailed monthly reports that can provide excellent insights when defining an online marketing strategy. Such 'point & click' solutions for search engine optimisation are rapidly increasing in popularity.

Holford added, "In the coming year, more firms will turn to the Internet as a swift and cost-effective way to expand their sales and lead generation. Research suggests that SEO should now be a top priority for many UK enterprises. It could well become their wisest investment this year".

As the UK's largest 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

30 January 2009, Gloucester, UK: Fasthosts Internet Ltd, (www.fasthosts.co.uk), the UK's number one web hosting company, today reached out to IT and creative professionals and entrepreneurs with an offer that provides 6 months free reseller web hosting. The risk-free trial, worth £300, is the latest in Fasthosts' efforts to promote reseller web hosting as an opportunity for individuals and companies to grow their income. Fasthosts Reseller Package enables a user to retail web solutions including hosting, domains, email and broadband, under their own brand and earn profit on the items they sell. A recent survey by Fasthosts found that 80 per cent of businesses that begin to resell web hosting in addition to their regular products or services earn a profit from the practice. Fasthosts' 6 Months Free offer comprises an excellent opportunity to enter this growth area of IT.

In today's challenging economy, the concept of reseller web hosting is a compelling way to develop an enterprise such as an IT or marketing related business. Fasthosts' Reseller web hosting equips an entrepreneur with everything they need to retail own-branded web solutions (such as hosting, domains and email solutions) at prices set by themselves. Resellers can combine white-label web solutions with their own services, such as web design, programming or IT advice, to create tailored services for niche markets and so charge premium prices.

The Fasthosts 6 Months Free offer goes further to provide an excellent risk-free trial that enables a business to begin reselling. The Fasthosts Reseller package, usually £50/month+VAT, is unique in featuring unlimited web space and bandwidth meaning greatly reduced costs to resellers. Unlimited POP3 email enables resellers to tailor packages closely to their clients' needs. A wide range of brandable website publishing tools, website tracking and marketing tools provide further opportunities to earn revenue.

Steve Holford, Chief Marketing Officer, Fasthosts Internet Ltd, said "In a difficult economic climate, reseller web hosting is a low risk and profitable way to grow a business. Our 6 month free trial is an unrivalled opportunity for SMEs to experiment with their market and see what difference the new revenue can make".

Recent research appears to support the viability of reseller hosting for many companies. A survey of 793 Fasthosts resellers found that 80 per cent of businesses that begin to resell web hosting in addition to their regular products or services earn a profit from the practice within 1 year. Furthermore, two thirds (66 per cent) found it ‘easy' to cross-sell hosting to their existing customer base, and half (50 per cent) have increased their average length of service per client as a result of reselling web solutions.

The recurring fees model and healthy profit margins involved with web hosting can also be attractive for those under pressure to grow revenue streams. 64 per cent of resellers reported that they had increased overall ‘revenue per client' as a result of reselling web solutions. The excellent scalability of web hosting means that resellers can grow a new hosting business flexibly and at their own speed. All technicalities and back-end processes are handled by the provider but the reseller retains all customer liaison and marketing themselves.

Holford added, "Unlike other reseller propositions, a hosting reseller is free to focus on their sales and tailoring their new service to their corporate identity or existing offerings. By virtue of this, we expect to see reseller hosting further increase in popularity this year".

As the UK's leading reseller hosting provider, Fasthosts offers a comprehensive range of reseller web solutions including domain name registrations, email solutions (including mobile email services), shared web hosting, and feature-rich broadband packages. For more information on Fasthosts reseller web hosting, see the website at www.fasthosts.co.uk/resellers

15 December 2008, Gloucester, UK: 71 per cent of web users are unaware of how Internet Search Engine results are compiled, according to research released today by Fasthosts Internet Ltd, (www.fasthosts.co.uk), the UK's number one web hosting company. The study of 1600 UK consumers(1), which focused on the public's day-to-day use of search engines, found that the vast majority of Britons either have no idea or an inaccurate view of how online search results are determined. The research also found that consumers today have a strong preference for 'Organic' or main search engine results as opposed to additional 'Sponsored' links which website publishers pay to display, with more than 1 in 3 (38 per cent) choosing to ignore these when they appear.

As our gateways to the Web, Internet Search Engines are the most commonly used websites for the majority of UK web surfers. However, Fasthosts' 'Online Search Matters Survey' found that over two thirds of consumers remain in the dark about how the search engine results they use come about. Whilst 97 per cent of those questioned frequently use search engines, only 29 per cent are aware that search results are ordered according to a combination of relevance to search terms and optimisation techniques used by the individual website owners.

Nearly 1 in 4 Britons (24 per cent) believe that the order of the search listings they use cannot be influenced by the publishers of websites listed, whilst a similar proportion (22 per cent) suspect that results are ordered entirely according to how much has been paid by the websites listed. 1 in 5 consumers (19 per cent) have no idea at all how results are compiled, and 5 per cent believe that search listings are arranged completely at random like a lottery. Interestingly, men have a significantly better understanding of search engines than women, with 1 in 3 men (33 per cent) correctly identifying how they work, as compared to only 26 per cent of women. The level of confusion on the subject also varies with age, with 30 per cent of over 55 year olds having no idea at all, as opposed to only 7 per cent of 16-24 year olds.

Steve Holford, CMO Fasthosts Internet, said "It's remarkable that the majority of Britons rely heavily on search engines but do not understand how they work. By knowing a little about how and why results are ordered, users can better determine which content will be of most value to them".

Fasthosts' research also identified that British web surfers have significantly more trust in main search results over additional sponsored listings. Often found to the side or above the main results, such links appear to be viewed by many with suspicion. 1 in 3 (33 per cent) believe these listings to be 'less worthy' and 'less useful' than main search results. Two thirds of web users (66 per cent) report that they always pay attention first to main results, and some 40 per cent of women and 34 per cent of men will consciously ignore sponsored links whenever they appear.

Eastern and central parts of England appear the most sceptical towards sponsored listings, with 45 per cent of Norwich residents and 43 per cent of people from Nottingham refusing to click on them, as compared to only 12 per cent from Belfast. There are also slight geographical variations in our reliance upon search engines. Some 12 per cent of Belfast citizens report having never used a search engine to find a retailer as opposed to only 2 per cent of more search-centric Londoners.

Holford added, "Particularly at this time of the year, search engines comprise an invaluable link between consumers and retailers. Web users who can better interpret search engine results will often enjoy a more meaningful online experience".

As the UK's largest 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) 1,636 UK adults interviewed by Tickbox.Net in November 2008 via electronic feedback form

1 December 2008, Gloucester, UK: Fasthosts Internet Ltd, (www.fasthosts.co.uk), the UK's number one web hosting company, today revealed statistics that lend weight to the idea that UK businesses have become more email-centric in response to tougher economic conditions. From 1 May 2008 to 31 October 2008, the provider has seen a 50 per cent jump in the number of new mailboxes being created each month by its many hundreds of thousands of business customers. The company has also noted how the average size of a UK business email account is decreasing in time, perhaps a reflection of how businesses are handling emails more efficiently.

Nowadays, one would expect every business to use email to some degree. However, data from one of the UK's leading providers of business email solutions suggests that there has been a marked acceleration in business email usage in recent months. Fasthosts' business customer base created 50 per cent more new email accounts during October 2008 when compared to 6 months before. Fasthosts responded to the increased demand by stepping-up regular expansion of its technical capacity by 50 per cent during the Summer months.

The data would suggest that many UK businesses have sought to increase the role that email plays within their business processes. It is likely that a number of these businesses have switched to using additional email communication in place of costlier options such as the post, facsimile and face-to-face meetings.

Steve Holford, CMO Fasthosts Internet, said "Over the past year, email has become even more important for businesses. When adapting to tougher trading conditions, email can often provide an efficient, cost effective alternative or work-around for a variety of workflows. In addition to more email accounts being created, we have also seen increased demand for mobile functionality as business users seek to increase productivity on the move".

Interestingly, whilst both the number of new email accounts created each month and Fasthosts' overall email load has grown, the average UK business mailbox has decreased in size significantly over the past year. Accordingly to Fasthosts, in November 2007 the average total business mailbox size was 881MB whilst 1 year later the average size stands at 749MB, a reduction of some 18 per cent.

In storing less email data within their accounts, British businesses appear to be using email more efficiently than in the past. The growing popularity of more advanced email systems such as MS Exchange, as well as mobile devices and online storage services may have equipped businesses to better handle emailed documents and optimise their overall email management.

Holford added, "Our business users today utilise email more intensively and are working smarter than ever before. It's pleasing to see that British companies have in time become more dynamic in how they process and archive their emails".

As the UK's largest 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

In today's difficult economic climate, the figures lend weight to the concept of reseller web hosting as a low risk and profitable way to develop an enterprise such as an IT or marketing related business. Reseller web hosting enables an entrepreneur to retail brandable web solutions (such as hosting, domains and email solutions) and earn profit on the items they sell. Resellers can combine white-label web solutions with their own services, such as web design, programming or IT advice, to create tailored services for niche markets and so charge premium prices.

Some 70 per cent of Fasthosts resellers surveyed would recommend reselling web hosting to other businesses such as theirs. In 2008, the low investment costs involved make reseller web hosting a compelling business proposition. The research found that excluding monthly subscription fees, 61 per cent of resellers invested less than £500 in setting up their own reseller hosting operation.

Steve Holford, CMO Fasthosts Internet Ltd, said "In recent months, demand for reseller web hosting has been brisk as more IT related SMEs are seeking to diversify and add strings to their bow. By offering web solutions alongside existing services, many businesses find that they can bolster their revenues and protect their client relationships".

The recurring fees model and healthy profit margins involved with web hosting can also be attractive for those under pressure to grow revenue streams. 64 per cent of resellers reported that they had increased overall ‘revenue per client' as a result of reselling web solutions.

A further 84 per cent of those surveyed would recommend Fasthosts as a reseller partner. The Fasthosts Reseller Package, £50/month+VAT, offers an excellent low cost way to resell own-branded web hosting, domain names, email services and broadband. Fasthosts' unique philosophy offers resellers unlimited web space, bandwidth and POP3 email enabling them to tailor packages closely to their clients' needs. There is also a 3 month, no obligation trial that makes entry to the reseller market completely painless.

An important characteristic of web hosting is the excellent scalability, allowing one to model a reseller business flexibly. All technicalities and back-end processes are handled by the provider but the reseller retains all customer liaison and marketing themselves. Thus, unlike many other reseller propositions, a hosting reseller can focus on sales and unifying their new service to a corporate identity or existing offerings.

Holford added, "With the support of a high-quality provider, creating your own web hosting brand can comprise an efficient way to generate revenue. As the web becomes more critical for all sizes and types of business, the web solutions market will enable resellers to capitalize on growth areas such as mobile email, collaboration and ecommerce."

For more information on Fasthosts reseller web hosting, see the website at www.fasthosts.co.uk/resellers

[1] 793 UK web hosting resellers surveyed in September 08 via electronic feedback form.

Nowadays, a virtual shop-front on the Internet can be as valuable to a business as its actual premises. However, an alarming number of UK businesses could be risking sales revenue and stability by having their business domain names registered on their behalf by employees or third parties such as web designers. If such individuals part company with a business, as they were the legal ‘registrant' of the domains, the business often faces the time consuming task of having to prove their legitimate right to own and control the domain names.

According the Fasthosts, home to the most UK hosted websites, there has been a 30 per cent increase in the number of domain ownership disputes reported by customers. Fasthosts is different in having an in-house Domain Release Team that can adjudicate disputes and action domain transfers on behalf of business owners, often smoothing the process for its customers. Most web hosting providers merely refer disputes to the relevant domain registries, often prolonging disruption to businesses.

Steve Holford, CMO Fasthosts Internet, said "In 2008, companies should view their domain names as valuable intellectual property. Businesses can save themselves from potential losses and disruption by ensuring that every domain is registered continually in the proprietor's own name".

Fasthosts advises UK businesses to check that their domains are registered with up to date information and initiate any amendments rather than neglecting the issue. Companies with questions regarding their domains should contact their web host for advice.

Holford added, "Particularly in a challenging economic climate, third parties and employees can come and go. Whilst many business owners prefer somebody else to take care of their website, a clear distinction must be made between day-to-day administration of a company website and the legal ownership of the domains and hosting".

As the UK's largest 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.