If your website will need to leverage a database to record orders and customer information, for example, most hosting companies can fulfill your needs. However, there are different databases to choose from. Each database has disadvantages and advantages

Typically, the three databases that you can choose from are:

• mySQL
• Microsoft Access
• Microsoft SQL Server

If you have a large commercial site you will not only need to decide which database platform is best, but also how your database will be configured in conjunction with your web site. At the most highest level, you have two choices: rent database space on a larger database server or purchase the database software yourself and install on your web server (this only applies if you decide to leverage a dedicated web server). Graphically, each option would appear as follows:

In the long run, owning your own database software is less expensive than renting one from a hosting company. However, if you cannot afford to purchase the database software initially, renting the software is a less expensive short term option. Options like mySQL and Access generally are free or very low priced.

Before you select any database for your website, establish an understanding of your short-term and long-term needs. An easy option is to use a service like eCriteria that hosts and manages a database for you, leaving very little work to be done on your end. For the small site it can be the perfect type of solution to meet your database requirements quickly.

• eCriteria