Waggybytes:
How a one-man tech business thrives in the cloud

When it comes to cloud technology, you don't need a big team to make a big impact. Just ask Andy Heathershaw, the brains behind Waggybytes – a one-man powerhouse helping businesses stay connected with expert software development and cloud hosting.

For solo entrepreneurs like Andy, finding the right technology partner can be transformative. That's where the Fasthosts Partner Programme comes in – proving that businesses of any size can benefit from enterprise-level hosting, support, and service.

Meet Waggybytes: From code to cloud

Based just north of Birmingham, Andy's journey started with a passion for software development, which naturally evolved into cloud services. Recognising the demand for reliable hosting and website management, he expanded Waggybytes to offer managed services using VPS hosting.

And the name? That's a nod to my love of tech and dogs, specifically my 10-year old lab, Mickey, he says. Because, let's face it, what's better than waggy tails and reliable servers?

Helping businesses stay connected

Waggybytes works with businesses of all shapes and sizes, including Yakety Yak, a London-based voiceover agency representing the likes of Toby Jones and James Nesbitt.

They had a very specific CMS that their previous partner didn't seem to understand – in fact, their old host tried to get them to migrate to Microsoft 365, which Yakety Yak didn't want to do, Andy said. So I helped them maintain full control of their emails with a custom solution.

This hands-on approach is what sets Waggybytes apart – solving real-world problems with tech that just... works.

Cloud misconceptions and Andy's no-nonsense approach

One of the biggest myths in cloud technology? The cloud does everything for you! Andy is quick to set the record straight: While the cloud is powerful, it still needs just as much management as an on-prem solution.

Fortunately for his clients, Andy's an expert. As a result, Waggybytes thrives on referrals and word-of-mouth recommendations from clients who appreciate his straight-talking, solutions-focused approach – many of whom have come from the Fasthosts Partner Network.

Finding the right partner: Why Fasthosts?

Andy first became a Fasthosts customer in 2018, but took the plunge into the Partner Programme in early 2022. Initially, he wasn't sure if he fit the bill as a one-man band. But following a reassuring chat with the Fasthosts Partner Manager (shoutout Matt Harvey), Andy realised the programme was built for businesses of all shapes and sizes – offering flexibility, scalability, and UK-based support.

Today, Andy relies on Fasthosts for VPS hosting, shared hosting, and referrals: I love Fasthosts. I've never had to persuade a customer to use a product from the Fasthosts suite, because the benefits are all there – they're cost-efficient, reliable, and one of the few UK independent providers left. Plus it's always great to support another midlands-based business!

It's no wonder that Andy even has a dedicated Fasthosts campaign page on his website - transparency at its best.

Lessons from Disney as a solo founder

While life as a solopreneur has the potential to be stressful, Andy tries to stick by his own motto, inspired by The Walt Disney Company: It's just software, nobody died!

As a committed Disney fan, he remains firmly in touch with his inner child even in his professional life – determined to keep things as stress-free and fun as possible. Balancing Waggybytes alongside his full-time job, raising two young kids, and of course Mickey the lab, Andy shows that running a tech business doesn't have to mean burning out.

Don't go it alone – partner with Fasthosts

Technology is always evolving, and businesses need to keep up. A word from Andy – don't overlook the power of partnerships. Fasthosts has been a game-changer for Waggybytes, proving that even a one-man business can benefit from top-tier hosting and support.

Whether you're a startup, freelancer, or growing agency, Fasthosts is a no-brainer for UK businesses looking for reliability, affordability, and a true partnership in the cloud. Get in touch to learn more.