It may tilt the scales in the favor of the host if he's got all other features I am looking for but will not be deciding factor in choosing hosting provider at least for me...

I am actually outright hostile to the idea and the supermarket buy one get one free, apparently it works very well for the supermarkets.

I've heard of hosts that offer "free" domains. Then, when you cancel, they tell you that
the fine print says they own that domain - hence reason it was free!

Originally Posted by espmartin

I've heard of hosts that offer "free" domains. Then, when you cancel, they tell you that
the fine print says they own that domain - hence reason it was free!

Yes, I have heard this one before as well, so you sort of become a hostage. I also avoid host that ask to take control of your domain before you can host with them. I prefer to be in charge of my own DNS and domain ownership

NO. Need to take a look at the overall package. Oftentimes the freebies are there to blind you of the rip off fees you'll be paying in the long run.

Sometimes it is just pure and simply genuine with the hosting company wanting to claim more in the market!

Whatever it is - look carefully at what the hosting company is offering and always compare short term and long term costs.

Not sure if I really understood how the free domain thing work.

Do they keep the name on your name or do the registered name has any restrictions?


But for some reason, I stay out of that option.

-- I do not take their free domain.

I may be loosing some money there!

i voted no.

i first look if the host is good and have good support and a good uptime.
and a good reputation.

but a freebie is ok, but no must.

better have a kickass host.

i voted no., It's hard to transfer it out

Its ususlly in tie with some sort of term like you can not transfer or there is a minimum hosting package you need for a couple of years