PHP Hosting

Most web-pages are built on what's called multi- or three-tier architecture. The first tier is the database (controlled by a programming language like MySQL). The second tier is the content (controlled by a scripting language, like PHP). The third level is "presentation" (which utilizes special software, often with HTML codes and other factors which affect how the page--and content within it--is displayed). Building a web-page with proper attention to each tier provides a solid overall structure, makes growth easy when circumstances require it, and can considerably ease long-term code-maintenance.

PHP is one of the most popular scripting languages in use on the Web. It is an open-source scripting language, and compatible with many types of databases. It is particularly suited for use with osCommerce utilizing MySQL databases.

One of PHP's advantages relates to being an open source language. Open-source products are considered more reliable, more user-friendly, and more stable than closed-source products. Open-source software, because of the open community in which it's tested, improved and personalized, evolves at a much higher rate than software which is worked on by an exclusive handful of programmers. Upgrades are available much faster, much more frequently, making open source software forever on the forefront of technology.

PHP Hosting for osCommerce

PHP hosting is offered by many osCommerce providers. Features typically provided by PHP hosts include a specified amount of disk space, email accounts, MySQL database engines, secure servers, daily back-ups and more. Prices for PHP hosting can range from less than $10 per month for small companies, to upwards of $300 a year for larger institutions.