8host.com Review

Based on checking the website, 8host.com presents itself as a cloud infrastructure provider offering VPS/VDS hosting, private cloud solutions, and services for CMS-based websites.

The site highlights features such as European servers, unlimited traffic, robust data protection, and 24/7 technical support.

While it emphasizes security and flexibility, certain elements typical of highly trusted and transparent hosting providers appear to be missing or less emphasized, which raises some flags from an ethical and trust perspective.

Overall Review Summary:

• Website Transparency: Moderate, lacks clear company “About Us” or executive team details.
• Pricing Clarity: Generally clear for base services, but potential for hidden costs with custom configurations.
• Customer Support Accessibility: Appears to be good with 24/7 live staff, but no direct phone number listed.
• Security Measures: Claims strong data protection and DDoS mitigation, backed by ISO certifications for their datacenter.
• Ethical Compliance: No immediate red flags regarding the services offered themselves hosting is permissible, but the lack of detailed company background is a concern.
• Trial Period: No trial period, but offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.
• Payment Methods: Accepts various methods including traditional and cryptocurrencies Bitcoin/Litecoin.

While 8host.com attempts to project an image of reliability and freedom, the absence of comprehensive “About Us” information, including details about the company’s legal entity, its founding team, or its operational history, is a significant point of concern.

For any service that handles critical data and infrastructure, transparency is paramount.

Trustworthy providers typically offer deep insights into their company values, leadership, and operational principles.

This omission can make it challenging for potential customers to fully gauge the provider’s credibility and long-term commitment.

Furthermore, while payment via Bitcoin/Litecoin is offered, this, combined with the lack of detailed company information, might raise additional questions for some users seeking maximum transparency and regulatory adherence.

Here are some of the best alternatives for ethical and reliable hosting services:

• SiteGround

  • Key Features: Excellent speed with SSDs, advanced caching, free CDN, free SSL, daily backups, robust security, managed WordPress hosting.
  • Price: Starts around $2.99/month for shared hosting.
  • Pros: Top-tier performance, outstanding customer support, strong security measures, easy-to-use interface.
  • Cons: Renewal prices are significantly higher, storage limits can be tight on lower-tier plans.

• A2 Hosting

  • Key Features: “Turbo” servers for 20x faster speeds, developer-friendly Python, Node.js, Ruby support, free SSL, free site migration, anytime money-back guarantee.
  • Pros: Exceptional speed, strong uptime, excellent customer service, supports various development tools.
  • Cons: Higher renewal rates, interface can be a bit overwhelming for beginners.

• Hostinger

  • Key Features: Very affordable pricing, hPanel custom control panel, free SSL, free domain on annual plans, excellent performance, global data centers.
  • Price: Starts around $2.49/month for shared hosting.
  • Pros: Extremely budget-friendly, good performance for the price, intuitive control panel, 24/7 live chat support.
  • Cons: Daily backups are not on the lowest plan, some advanced features are add-ons.

• Cloudways

  • Key Features: Managed cloud hosting AWS, Google Cloud, DigitalOcean, Linode, Vultr, scalable resources, built-in caching, free SSL, 24/7 expert support.
  • Price: Starts around $11/month.
  • Pros: Unmatched speed and performance, highly scalable, excellent support, choice of cloud providers.
  • Cons: More complex for beginners, higher price point than shared hosting, no domain registration.

• InMotion Hosting

  • Key Features: SSD drives, free domain, free SSL, daily backups, 90-day money-back guarantee, excellent customer support, U.S.-based.
  • Pros: Reliable uptime, good performance, long money-back guarantee, strong customer service.
  • Cons: Not as fast as some competitors, higher renewal costs.

• WP Engine

  • Key Features: Premium managed WordPress hosting, excellent speed optimization, daily backups, free SSL, staging environments, proactive security.
  • Price: Starts around $20/month.
  • Pros: Best-in-class performance for WordPress, superior security, expert WordPress support, developer-friendly tools.
  • Cons: Only for WordPress, higher price point, limited plugin compatibility for security reasons.

• Kinsta

  

  • Key Features: Managed WordPress hosting powered by Google Cloud Platform, lightning-fast speeds, daily backups, free CDN, free SSL, advanced security.
  • Price: Starts around $30/month.
  • Pros: Extremely fast and reliable, superb customer support, excellent security features, easy staging.
  • Cons: WordPress-exclusive, premium pricing, no email hosting included.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

8host.com Review & First Look: An Initial Impression

Upon first glance, 8host.com presents a straightforward, functional website, largely devoid of flashy animations or overly complex design elements.

The homepage immediately lays out its core offerings: VPS/VDS cloud hosting, private cloud solutions, and cloud services for CMS-based websites.

This direct approach might appeal to users who prioritize clarity and efficiency.

However, a deeper dive reveals areas where transparency and readily available information fall short, which is crucial for a service dealing with critical digital infrastructure.

The Immediate Overview and Promises

The site highlights “Absolute freedom on reliable hosting,” aiming to attract users looking for unrestricted and flexible solutions.

They emphasize European servers, specifically mentioning a TIER-3 datacenter in Amsterdam, NL, which implies a commitment to high availability and data security.

The promises of “unlimited traffic,” “99.99% uptime,” and “instant activation” are bold claims designed to instill confidence.

While these are industry-standard marketing points, the absence of easily verifiable credentials beyond general certifications raises questions about the empirical basis for such assurances.

Missing Elements for Trust Building

What’s notably absent on the homepage, and indeed across the entire site, is a comprehensive “About Us” section.

There’s no clear information about the company’s founding history, its mission, its leadership team, or its legal entity. Tegra.co Review

This lack of corporate transparency is a significant concern for any business, especially one entrusted with data hosting.

Reputable hosting providers often feature detailed histories, team profiles, and public commitments to service standards, all of which build user trust.

The “Contact Us” page provides an email form and a physical address in the Netherlands, but no direct phone number, which can be a barrier for urgent inquiries.

The “Informatorium” and Blog Content

The “Informatorium” section, which functions as a blog or knowledge base, contains articles primarily focused on technical setups and tutorials e.g., “Fortifying OpenSSH on Ubuntu 20.04,” “Setting up a Traefik reverse proxy for Docker containers”. While these articles demonstrate a technical understanding and provide useful information for potential users, they do not compensate for the missing corporate transparency.

The articles are dated to late 2022, suggesting the blog might not be updated frequently, which could indicate less active community engagement or content development.

8host.com Pros & Cons: Weighing the Good and the Bad

When evaluating a hosting provider like 8host.com, it’s essential to dissect both its strengths and weaknesses to get a balanced picture.

While the website touts numerous benefits, certain aspects warrant closer scrutiny, particularly for users prioritizing transparency and comprehensive support.

The Stated Advantages: What 8host.com Claims to Offer

• European Servers & TIER-3 Datacenter: The emphasis on servers located in Amsterdam, NL, within a TIER-3 datacenter, is a significant plus. TIER-3 facilities are designed for high availability, typically offering 99.982% uptime with N+1 redundancy. This means essential components like power and cooling have at least one redundant counterpart, reducing single points of failure.
  • Reliability: The claim of “99.99% uptime” is ambitious but aligns with the TIER-3 standard. According to the Uptime Institute, a TIER-3 datacenter has a maximum of 1.6 hours of downtime annually.
  • Data Protection: Mention of “European laws” and the unaccessibility of data for “Government officials” outside of legal process, one assumes appeals to privacy-conscious users, especially given strict European data protection regulations like GDPR.
• Unlimited Traffic & High Bandwidth: The promise of “unlimited traffic on 100 Mbps bandwidth” is attractive, though it’s important to note that “unlimited” often comes with fair usage policies that might not be explicitly detailed. For most small to medium-sized projects, 100 Mbps is ample.
• Flexible OS and Software Installation: The ability to install “your own images” and “any OS and software” offers significant flexibility for developers and users with specific environmental requirements, moving beyond the limitations of shared hosting. This is a common feature in VPS/VDS offerings but still a valuable one.
• 24/7 Technical Support: The website states “adequate technical support” with “live staff” and “no postponed tickets,” available 24/7 in English and Russian. Responsive support is crucial for any hosting service.
• Instant Activation: “Activate your service in 1 minute after payment is completed!” is a strong selling point for users needing immediate deployment. This efficiency is often a hallmark of automated provisioning systems.
• Money-Back Guarantee: A 30-day money-back guarantee provides a safety net for new users to test the service without significant financial risk. This is an industry-standard practice that builds confidence.

The Disadvantages and Areas of Concern: What’s Missing or Unclear

• Lack of Corporate Transparency: This is perhaps the most significant drawback. There’s no clear “About Us” section detailing the company’s legal name, its registration, its history, or the team behind it. For a service provider handling critical infrastructure, this lack of transparency can erode trust. Who is 8host.com? Where is it truly based? This information is vital for due diligence.
  • Trust Deficit: In an industry rife with fly-by-night operations, established companies strive for maximum transparency to differentiate themselves. The absence of this information is a major red flag.
• Limited Contact Options: While 24/7 email and ticket support are mentioned, the absence of a direct phone number for immediate assistance can be a hindrance, especially for critical issues that require real-time communication.
• Vague “Unlimited” Policies: While “unlimited traffic” sounds great, these offers often come with “fair usage” or “acceptable use” policies that cap resources if usage becomes excessive. Without a clear link to these policies, users might face unexpected limitations.
• Limited “Informatorium” Updates: The blog articles, while useful, appear to be outdated last updated in late 2022 based on the dates provided on the homepage snippets. An active blog often signifies an engaged provider that continually shares knowledge and updates with its user base.
• No Trial Period: Although a 30-day money-back guarantee is available, the lack of a free trial period means users must commit financially upfront to test the service. Some competitors offer short trials to allow users to evaluate performance and features directly.

8host.com Pricing: A Look at the Cost Structure

Understanding the pricing model of a hosting provider is crucial for budgeting and long-term planning.

8host.com offers distinct pricing tiers for its primary services: VPS/VDS cloud hosting, Cloud services with CMS, and Private Cloud.

While the initial listed prices appear competitive, a thorough examination of the details is necessary. Imsim.eu.com Review

VPS/VDS Cloud Hosting Pricing

The most prominent offering, VPS/VDS hosting, is advertised starting “from 8/month.” This base configuration includes:

• RAM: 2GB or more
• vCPU: Intel Xeon E5520 2.27GHz 1 Core or more
• SSD Disk: minimum 20GB
• IPv4 Address: from 1

This starting price point is fairly standard for basic VPS configurations.

However, the “or more” and “from” qualifiers indicate that these are minimum specifications, and higher resource allocations will naturally lead to increased costs.

Users need to carefully configure their desired specifications to get an accurate quote.

Cloud Services with CMS Pricing

For users looking for easier deployment of websites, blogs, or forums, 8host.com offers cloud services with preinstalled CMS, starting “from 5/month.” This lower price point includes:

• Domain: from 1
• Disk Quota: from 1 GB
• FTP Account: from 1
• Database: from 1

This offering seems geared towards simpler, possibly shared-resource environments, given the low disk quota.

While convenient for beginners, it’s essential to understand the underlying infrastructure.

The fact that it starts at a lower price than the base VPS suggests it might be a lighter service or bundled on a shared platform, which could impact performance under heavy load.

The mention of “preinstalled CMS” like WordPress, Joomla, Drupal is a convenience feature, reducing setup time.

Private Cloud Pricing

The “Private Cloud” option caters to more complex, isolated virtual infrastructure needs, starting “from 20/month.” Key features include: Btcs.com Review

• Resource Scalability: Ability to quickly add new resources as systems grow.
• High Security and Reliability: Enhanced isolation compared to shared or public cloud environments.
• Custom Configuration: Any configuration of CPU, RAM, SSD, SATA, etc.

The private cloud offering is designed for businesses requiring dedicated resources and a higher degree of control and security.

The “from 20/month” price suggests a scalable model where costs will increase significantly based on the chosen resource allocation and specific hardware configurations.

This level of service is typically chosen by larger enterprises or those with stringent compliance requirements.

Payment Methods and Money-Back Guarantee

8host.com supports a wide array of payment systems:

• Traditional: VISA, MasterCard, PayPal, and bank transfer.
• Cryptocurrency: Bitcoin/Litecoin.

The inclusion of cryptocurrency payments offers flexibility for some users but might raise concerns for others who prefer more traditional, traceable payment methods, especially given the overall lack of corporate transparency.
A crucial aspect of their pricing policy is the 30-day money-back guarantee. This provides a valuable period for users to test the service and ensure it meets their needs without long-term financial commitment. It’s a standard practice in the hosting industry that helps build initial trust.

Potential for Hidden Costs and Upsells

While the base pricing is clear, the “from” phrasing for all services indicates that the actual cost will depend heavily on the user’s selected configuration.

It’s common in hosting to find additional costs for:

• Higher Resource Allocation: More RAM, vCPUs, or storage beyond the minimum.
• Managed Services: If any level of server management or specific software installation is required beyond basic setup.
• Additional IP Addresses: While one IPv4 is included, more might incur extra charges.
• Backup Services: While “Automatic backup of all servers” is mentioned for Private Cloud, it’s not explicitly stated as included for all services, or if there are retention limits.
• Domain Registration: The website mentions “Need a domain to register? Available here from 9.99 EUR,” indicating this is an additional service, not necessarily bundled free with all plans.

Users should be prepared to go through the configuration process to get a precise final price and review the terms of service for any fair usage policies or hidden fees that might apply.

8host.com vs. Industry Standards: A Comparative Analysis

When evaluating 8host.com, it’s beneficial to compare its offerings against the broader industry standards set by established hosting providers.

This helps determine where 8host.com stands in terms of features, reliability, support, and overall value. Glazecrm.com Review

Key Comparison Points:

• Uptime Guarantees: 8host.com claims “99.99% uptime.” Many top-tier providers like SiteGround and Hostinger also offer 99.9% or higher uptime guarantees. However, what often differentiates providers is their Service Level Agreement SLA which details compensation for downtime. 8host.com’s website doesn’t explicitly link to a detailed SLA from the homepage, making it difficult to assess their commitment beyond the stated percentage. Industry leaders often provide clear, publicly accessible SLAs.
• Performance Speed: 8host.com highlights “maximum performance” with SSDs and “unlimited traffic on 100 Mbps bandwidth.” Most modern hosting providers, from shared to cloud, utilize SSDs for speed. Providers like A2 Hosting with their “Turbo” servers claiming 20x faster performance or managed cloud hosts like Cloudways and Kinsta powered by Google Cloud/AWS often outperform standard VPS setups due to highly optimized stacks, advanced caching, and premium network infrastructure. A 100 Mbps port speed is reasonable, but it’s the server optimization, disk I/O, and network routing that truly define speed.
• Security Features: 8host.com mentions “data is protected by walls of TIER-3 European datacenter” and “DDoS protection.” They also list various ISO and other certifications for their datacenter ISO 9001, 14001, 27001, OHSAS 18001, ISAE 3402, PCI DSS. These certifications are strong indicators of adherence to international standards for quality, environmental management, information security, occupational health and safety, and financial data security. However, comprehensive security often includes things like free SSL certificates, daily backups which they mention for Private Cloud but not explicitly across all services, malware scanning, firewalls, and pro-active monitoring. Most reputable providers offer a robust suite of these features as standard.
• Customer Support: 8host.com promises “24/7 technical support” with “live staff” and “no postponed tickets” in English and Russian. This is a crucial area. Industry leaders like SiteGround and WP Engine are renowned for their incredibly fast and knowledgeable support via live chat, phone, and tickets. The absence of a direct phone number for 8host.com could be a disadvantage compared to providers offering multiple direct contact channels.
• Transparency and “About Us”: This is where 8host.com significantly diverges from industry best practices. Leading providers like DigitalOcean, Linode, Vultr, and even shared hosts often have extensive “About Us” pages, investor relations, clear legal entities, and visible leadership teams. This transparency builds immense trust, which is largely missing from 8host.com. The lack of clear corporate identity can be a major deterrent for businesses.
• Payment Options: 8host.com accepts traditional methods VISA, MasterCard, PayPal, bank transfer and cryptocurrencies Bitcoin/Litecoin. While many modern providers accept crypto, it’s still less common than traditional methods. Most mainstream providers focus on widely accepted credit/debit cards and PayPal. The inclusion of crypto payments isn’t a negative, but for some, it might signal a preference for anonymity, which, coupled with a lack of corporate transparency, could raise further questions.
• Money-Back Guarantee: 8host.com offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, which is standard in the industry. Many providers like InMotion Hosting offer longer periods e.g., 90 days, providing more time for evaluation.

Comparative Summary:

8host.com’s technical specifications and datacenter certifications suggest a focus on solid infrastructure and security.

Their offerings of VPS/VDS and Private Cloud solutions align with market demands for flexibility and control.

However, they fall short on critical aspects of trust and transparency that have become industry norms.

Established competitors often excel in providing not just reliable technical services but also a transparent corporate identity, comprehensive support channels, and clear, detailed terms of service that instill confidence.

For users prioritizing corporate transparency and easy direct communication, 8host.com might not meet the high bar set by leading providers.

How to Cancel 8host.com Subscription: Navigating the Process

Canceling a subscription with any online service should be a straightforward process, but sometimes, the steps aren’t immediately clear.

While 8host.com doesn’t explicitly detail its cancellation process on its public homepage, most hosting providers follow a similar pattern, typically managed through a client area.

General Steps for Subscription Cancellation

Based on industry standards and the presence of a “Login” portal, here’s how one would generally expect to cancel a service with 8host.com:

1. Login to Client Area: The first step is almost always to log into your personal client area or control panel. 8host.com has a “Login” link https://8host.com/portal/clientarea.php?language=english, which is the gateway to managing your services.
2. Navigate to Services/Products: Once logged in, look for a section or tab typically labeled “Services,” “My Services,” “Products,” or “Active Products.” This area lists all the hosting plans, domains, or other services you currently have with the provider.
3. Select the Service to Cancel: Identify the specific VPS, private cloud, or CMS hosting plan you wish to cancel. Click on it to view its details.
4. Initiate Cancellation Request: Within the service details, there should be an option to manage the service. Look for a button or link related to “Cancel,” “Request Cancellation,” “Terminate,” or “Downgrade.”
5. Provide Reason Optional but Recommended: Many providers ask for a reason for cancellation. While often optional, providing feedback can be helpful for the company to improve its services. You might be given options like “Too expensive,” “Poor performance,” “Moving to another provider,” etc.
6. Confirm Cancellation: After initiating the request, you will usually be asked to confirm your decision, sometimes requiring you to re-enter your password or acknowledge data deletion warnings. Ensure you read any warnings carefully, especially those concerning data loss.
7. Receive Confirmation: Upon successful submission, you should receive an email confirmation of your cancellation request. Keep this email for your records. The service might continue until the end of your billing cycle, or it might terminate immediately, depending on the provider’s policy.

Important Considerations for 8host.com Cancellation

• Data Backup: Before initiating any cancellation, always back up all your data. Once a hosting service is terminated, your data on their servers is typically deleted and irrecoverable.
• Billing Cycle: Understand your current billing cycle. If you cancel mid-cycle, some providers do not offer pro-rata refunds unless explicitly stated or within the money-back guarantee period. 8host.com offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, so if you’re within that window, ensure you follow their specific refund policy instructions.
• Money-Back Guarantee Specifics: For 8host.com’s 30-day money-back guarantee, it’s crucial to understand the exact terms. Does it apply to all services? Are there any excluded fees e.g., domain registration fees often non-refundable? This information is usually found in their Terms of Service or Refund Policy.
• Contact Support for Assistance: If you encounter any difficulties or cannot find the cancellation option in your client area, contact 8host.com’s support team directly via their ticket system or email. Their stated 24/7 support should be able to guide you through the process.
• Domain Management: If you registered a domain through 8host.com, ensure you transfer it to another registrar or update its nameservers before canceling your hosting service, to avoid losing control of your domain.

While the exact pathway within 8host.com’s client area may vary, these general steps provide a reliable roadmap for managing and canceling your subscription. Fastfurious10.top Review

Always prioritize data backup and carefully review any terms related to cancellation and refunds.

How to Cancel 8host.com Free Trial: A Non-Existent Feature

It’s important to clarify a key aspect of 8host.com’s service offerings right off the bat: 8host.com explicitly states on its homepage FAQ that it does not offer a free trial period. This means there is no “free trial” to cancel in the traditional sense.

8host.com’s Stated Policy on Trials

The FAQ section on their homepage directly addresses this:

• “Do you have a trial period? Unfortunately not. But you can have your money back within 30 days.”

This policy is clear. Instead of a free trial, 8host.com relies on a 30-day money-back guarantee as its primary mechanism for users to test the service without significant long-term financial commitment.

What the 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee Means

Since there’s no free trial, any service you sign up for with 8host.com will require an upfront payment.

The money-back guarantee essentially acts as a risk-free period.

If you are not satisfied with the service for any reason within the first 30 days of your purchase, you can request a full refund.

Steps to Avail the Money-Back Guarantee Equivalent to “Canceling a Trial”

If you wish to terminate your service and get your money back within the 30-day window, you would follow the general cancellation procedure, keeping the refund policy in mind:

1. Login to Client Area: Access your 8host.com client area using your login credentials.
2. Navigate to Services: Find the section listing your active services or products.
3. Initiate Cancellation: Select the service you wish to terminate and look for the cancellation option.
4. State Reason/Request Refund: When prompted, or as part of the cancellation notes, explicitly state that you are requesting a cancellation under the 30-day money-back guarantee. This ensures your request is processed correctly for a refund.
5. Confirm and Await Refund: Confirm your cancellation. You should then receive a confirmation email. The refund processing time can vary, but typically takes several business days to appear back in your account.
6. Contact Support if Needed: If you encounter any issues or don’t see the refund credited within a reasonable timeframe, immediately contact 8host.com’s technical support or billing department through their ticket system.

Why No Free Trial?

Many hosting providers, especially those offering VPS or dedicated resources, opt for a money-back guarantee over a free trial. Reasons include:

• Resource Abuse Prevention: Free trials can be exploited by malicious actors for temporary resource-intensive activities e.g., spamming, cryptomining, which strains infrastructure.
• Serious Commitment: Requiring an upfront payment, even if refundable, filters out casual users and encourages more serious engagement from potential customers.
• Simplified Billing: It streamlines billing processes as all users are paying customers from day one.

In summary, users looking for a free trial of 8host.com will find that it is not offered. Exosite.com Review

Instead, the 30-day money-back guarantee serves as the mechanism to test the service with the option of a full refund if not satisfied.

8host.com Data Center and Infrastructure: The Backbone of Their Service

Understanding the physical infrastructure of a hosting provider is paramount, as it directly impacts performance, reliability, and data security.

8host.com prominently highlights its use of European servers and its adherence to specific industry standards.

European Datacenter Location and Tier Classification

• Location: 8host.com states that its computing and storage resources are located at a datacenter in Amsterdam, Netherlands. This geographical location is favorable for serving the European market due to low latency, and it benefits from stringent European data protection laws, notably GDPR.
• Tier Classification: They specify their datacenter as a TIER-3 facility. The Uptime Institute’s Tier Standard is a globally recognized benchmark for data center reliability and performance.
  • TIER-3 Characteristics: A TIER-3 datacenter requires N+1 redundancy for power, cooling, and network, meaning there’s at least one redundant component for every essential element. It also allows for planned maintenance without affecting critical operations. This design aims for a very high uptime, typically 99.982% availability, translating to a maximum of approximately 1.6 hours of downtime per year. 8host.com’s claim of “99.99% uptime” is slightly higher than the standard TIER-3 rating, which implies additional measures or a marketing approximation.

Certifications and Compliance

The website lists an impressive array of certifications for its datacenter:

• ISO 9001:2008: Quality Management System.
• ISO 14001:2004: Environmental Management System.
• ISO 27001:2013: Information Security Management System ISMS. This is particularly critical for data protection, ensuring a systematic approach to managing sensitive company and customer information.
• OHSAS 18001:2007: Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems. Note: OHSAS 18001 has largely been superseded by ISO 45001, so the date 2007 might indicate older certification or a specific version still in use.
• ISAE 3402: International Standard on Assurance Engagements for service organizations. This provides assurance to clients regarding internal controls over financial reporting.
• AMS-IX: Amsterdam Internet Exchange. Being connected to a major internet exchange like AMS-IX one of the largest in the world ensures excellent peering relationships and low latency for traffic routing, especially within Europe.
• PCI DSS: Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard. This certification is crucial for any entity that processes, stores, or transmits credit card information, indicating adherence to strict security protocols for payment data.

These certifications, if current and accurately applied to the specific infrastructure used for 8host.com’s services, demonstrate a strong commitment to internationally recognized standards for quality, security, and operational reliability.

Hardware and Network Specifications

• SSDs: All VPS are stated to be on “high-speed SSD disks.” Solid State Drives SSDs offer significantly faster read/write speeds compared to traditional HDDs, leading to better overall performance for applications and databases.
• CPU: Intel Xeon E5520 2.27GHz 1 Core vCPU or more. Xeon processors are enterprise-grade CPUs designed for server environments, known for their reliability and multi-core performance. The specific model E5520 is an older generation, released in 2009. While still functional, newer Xeon generations offer better performance per watt and efficiency. This could suggest older hardware, potentially impacting raw processing power compared to providers using more current server hardware.
• Network: “Unlimited traffic on 100 Mbps bandwidth!” While 100 Mbps is sufficient for many applications, some high-demand projects might prefer 1 Gbps or even 10 Gbps ports, which are becoming standard offerings from premium providers. “Unlimited traffic” usually implies a fair usage policy.
• Distributed Storage with Triple Reservation: For “Reliability,” they mention “Allocate your data on distributed storage with triple reservation.” This implies a highly redundant storage solution where data is replicated across at least three separate storage nodes. This significantly reduces the risk of data loss due to single drive or node failures, enhancing data durability.

DDoS Protection

Distributed Denial of Service DDoS attacks can render websites and services unavailable by overwhelming them with traffic.

While the level and type of protection aren’t detailed, its inclusion is a positive sign for service availability.

In conclusion, 8host.com’s infrastructure boasts significant advantages, particularly its TIER-3 European datacenter with multiple high-level certifications, SSD storage, and redundant data reservation.

The main point of caution might be the older CPU model specified for base VPS, and the generic “100 Mbps” bandwidth which might not satisfy the most demanding applications compared to more modern, faster network offerings.

8host.com Security & Data Protection: A Closer Look

8host.com makes several claims regarding its security posture and adherence to data protection standards. Let’s break down these claims. Icomarks.com Review

Datacenter Security

8host.com emphasizes that “All data is secured with datacenter walls and european laws.” This refers to their TIER-3 datacenter in Amsterdam, NL.

• Physical Security: TIER-3 datacenters typically employ robust physical security measures, including:

  • 24/7 manned security: On-site personnel monitoring premises.
  • Multiple layers of access control: Biometric scanners, keycard access, mantraps, and video surveillance.
  • Perimeter fencing and secure entry points: Protecting the external boundaries.
  • Fire suppression systems: Advanced systems to prevent and contain fires without damaging equipment.
  • Environmental controls: Redundant cooling and power systems to maintain optimal operating conditions, preventing hardware failure due to overheating or power fluctuations.

• European Laws: The mention of “European laws” points directly to the General Data Protection Regulation GDPR. GDPR is one of the world’s strictest data privacy and security laws, requiring organizations to protect the personal data and privacy of EU citizens. Hosting data within the EU means 8host.com must comply with GDPR, which mandates:

  • Data minimization: Collecting only necessary data.
  • Purpose limitation: Using data only for specified, legitimate purposes.
  • Storage limitation: Retaining data only as long as necessary.
  • Integrity and confidentiality: Protecting data from unauthorized access, processing, or loss.
  • Accountability: Demonstrating compliance.

  This offers a significant level of protection and privacy for users’ data, making it “inaccessible for Government officials” without proper legal warrants, as stated on their site, which aligns with common perceptions of data sovereignty in Europe.

Certifications: A Mark of Compliance

The list of certifications for their datacenter is a strong indicator of their commitment to security and quality:

• ISO 27001:2013 Information Security Management System – ISMS: This is arguably the most important certification for data security. ISO 27001 specifies requirements for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and continually improving an ISMS. It indicates that 8host.com or their datacenter operator has a systematic approach to managing sensitive company and customer information, assessing and treating information security risks.
• PCI DSS Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard: This standard applies to organizations that handle branded credit cards from the major card schemes. Compliance means they adhere to a set of security controls designed to protect cardholder data during transactions. This is crucial for their ability to accept credit card payments securely.
• ISAE 3402: Provides assurance on internal controls for financial reporting. While not directly a data security standard, it speaks to the overall robustness and trustworthiness of their operational processes.

8host.com explicitly mentions “DDoS protection” as a feature.

DDoS attacks are a significant threat to online services, aiming to disrupt availability.

While the specifics of their DDoS mitigation e.g., volumetric, protocol, or application layer protection. scrubbing centers.

Capacity are not detailed, its presence is essential.

Many hosting providers implement multi-layered DDoS protection, often partnering with specialized security firms. Vocalskull.com Review

Data Redundancy and Backup

• “Reliable data protection schemes”: A general statement, but complemented by more specific claims.
• “Distributed storage with triple reservation”: This refers to their storage architecture. Data is replicated across multiple at least three different storage devices or nodes. This ensures that even if one or two storage units fail, the data remains available and intact, significantly reducing the risk of data loss and improving data durability.
• “Automatic backup of all servers” for Private Cloud: While explicitly stated for Private Cloud services, it’s not clear if this level of automatic backup is standard for all VPS/VDS hosting. Regular, automated backups are a cornerstone of data protection, allowing for recovery from accidental deletion, corruption, or cyberattacks. Users should clarify the backup policies for their specific service tier.

Transparency in Data Handling

While the technical and legal claims about data protection are strong, the overall lack of corporate transparency who runs the company, detailed legal terms beyond a generic privacy policy can create a perceived gap in trust.

Even with strong technical security, users often prefer to know the entity responsible for their data and its commitment to ethical practices.

However, from a purely technical and legal compliance standpoint regarding data protection, 8host.com appears to leverage robust standards and infrastructure.

8host.com Support & Resources: A Deeper Dive

The quality and accessibility of customer support, along with comprehensive informational resources, are critical factors in choosing a hosting provider.

8host.com makes specific claims about its support structure.

Customer Support Channels and Availability

• 24/7 Technical Support: 8host.com explicitly states “technical support 24/7 in English and Russian.” This round-the-clock availability is a standard expectation for hosting services, as issues can arise at any time.
• Live Staff & No Postponed Tickets: They claim “We cover all the support cases with live staff. We have no postponed tickets.” This suggests a commitment to immediate and personal attention, aiming to resolve issues quickly without leaving customers in a queue for extended periods. This is a strong promise, as many providers struggle with ticket backlog.
• Email/Ticket System: The FAQ states, “Email us your questions or submit a ticket in your personal client area.” This indicates that their primary support channels are email and a web-based ticketing system.
• Lack of Direct Phone Support: Notably, there is no mention of a direct phone number for support. While email and tickets can be efficient, many users prefer the immediacy of phone support for critical or complex issues that require real-time conversation and troubleshooting. This can be a drawback for those who value direct verbal communication.
• Live Chat Absence: There is also no visible live chat option on the main website, which is a common and highly preferred method for quick inquiries and immediate assistance in the hosting industry.

Informational Resources: The “Informatorium” and FAQ

• “Informatorium” Blog/Knowledge Base: 8host.com refers to its blog as the “Informatorium,” which contains “a lot of detailed manuals.” This section typically serves as a self-help resource for users.

  • Content: The listed articles on the homepage “Fortifying OpenSSH,” “Setting up a Traefik reverse proxy,” “CSS Flexbox Basics” indicate a focus on technical guides and tutorials. This is valuable for developers and technically proficient users who prefer to resolve issues independently.
  • Update Frequency: However, the dates of the listed articles all from late 2022 suggest that the blog might not be updated frequently. An actively maintained knowledge base with fresh content is a sign of an engaged provider.

• FAQ Section: The website includes a concise FAQ section directly on the homepage, addressing common questions such as:

  • Trial period policy no trial, 30-day money-back.
  • Data security.
  • Tech support urgency.
  • Datacenter information certifications, location.
  • OS installation from custom ISO.

  This FAQ provides quick answers to fundamental queries, reducing the need for direct support for basic information.

Overall Assessment of Support and Resources

8host.com’s commitment to “24/7 live staff” and “no postponed tickets” is a strong selling point for customer service.

If they consistently deliver on this, it would be a significant advantage. Ha3xun.com Review

The technical nature of their “Informatorium” indicates support for more advanced users who prefer self-service for common tasks.

However, the absence of phone and live chat support could be a limitation for users who require immediate verbal assistance or prefer real-time text communication.

While email and tickets are effective, they inherently introduce a delay.

The seemingly infrequent updates to their blog might also mean that certain technical documentation is not as current as it could be.

For optimal user experience, a balance of robust direct support channels and a frequently updated, comprehensive knowledge base is usually preferred.

FAQ

What is 8host.com?

8host.com is a cloud infrastructure provider offering VPS/VDS cloud hosting, private cloud solutions, and cloud services for CMS-based websites, with servers primarily located in a TIER-3 datacenter in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

Does 8host.com offer a free trial?

No, 8host.com explicitly states that it does not offer a free trial period.

Instead, they provide a 30-day money-back guarantee for all services.

What kind of hosting does 8host.com provide?

8host.com provides VPS/VDS cloud hosting, private cloud hosting, and cloud services specifically designed for popular Content Management Systems CMS like WordPress, Joomla, etc.

Where are 8host.com’s servers located?

8host.com’s computing and storage resources are located at a TIER-3 datacenter in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Happyjuniper.com Review

What is a TIER-3 datacenter?

A TIER-3 datacenter is a facility that offers N+1 redundancy for power, cooling, and network, meaning it has at least one backup component for every critical system.

It guarantees 99.982% uptime, allowing for planned maintenance without affecting critical operations.

Does 8host.com offer unlimited traffic?

Yes, 8host.com advertises “unlimited traffic on 100 Mbps bandwidth” for its services.

What are the main payment methods accepted by 8host.com?

8host.com accepts a variety of payment methods including VISA, MasterCard, PayPal, bank transfer, Bitcoin, and Litecoin.

How secure is data with 8host.com?

8host.com claims data is secured by datacenter walls and European laws like GDPR and is protected by various certifications including ISO 27001 Information Security and PCI DSS Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard. They also feature DDoS protection and distributed storage with triple reservation.

Can I install my own operating system image on 8host.com VPS?

Yes, 8host.com allows users to order a “MY ISO” service, upload their own ISO image, mount it, and install their preferred operating system to their VPS.

What is 8host.com’s uptime guarantee?

8host.com states that it provides “99.99% uptime by power and internet access,” which is a very high availability claim, aligning with its TIER-3 datacenter specification.

Does 8host.com offer 24/7 customer support?

Yes, 8host.com states it provides 24/7 technical support with live staff in both English and Russian, promising no postponed tickets.

How long does it take for 8host.com services to activate?

8host.com claims instant activation, stating that services are activated within 1 minute after payment is completed.

What is the “Informatorium” on 8host.com?

The “Informatorium” is 8host.com’s blog or knowledge base, which contains detailed manuals and technical articles to assist users. Hackerhouse.world Review

Does 8host.com offer managed hosting services?

The website primarily highlights self-managed VPS and Private Cloud options, though the CMS hosting suggests some level of pre-configuration.

Dedicated managed services are not explicitly detailed on the homepage.

What are the starting prices for 8host.com’s services?

VPS/VDS cloud hosting starts from $8/month, cloud services with CMS start from $5/month, and Private Cloud starts from $20/month.

Is a domain name included with 8host.com hosting plans?

No, while CMS hosting includes “from 1 domain,” domain registration is generally an additional service, with prices starting from 9.99 EUR, as mentioned on their site.

Can I get a refund if I’m not satisfied with 8host.com?

Yes, 8host.com offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to get a refund if you are not satisfied with their service within the first 30 days.

Are 8host.com’s blog articles up-to-date?

Based on the dates listed on the homepage snippets, the most recent articles displayed are from late 2022, which suggests the blog might not be updated very frequently.

Does 8host.com use SSDs for its VPS hosting?

Yes, 8host.com states that all its VPS are on high-speed SSD disks, contributing to faster performance.

How does 8host.com protect data from government access?

8host.com states that data is secured by European laws, making it “inaccessible for Government officials” without proper legal processes, aligning with stringent European data privacy regulations like GDPR.undefined

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