Black Friday is the cheapest time of year to buy web hosting, and also the easiest time to sign up for something you regret. Big discounts usually apply to the first term only. This checklist helps you compare deals properly before you pay.
1. Find the renewal price, not just the sale price
A plan advertised at $2 a month can renew at $15 or more. Look for the words “renews at” or “regular price” near the checkout button. Then do the simple maths: what will you pay over three years, not just the first one? A slightly higher sale price with an honest renewal often wins.
2. Check how long you must prepay
The lowest headline prices often require paying for three or four years up front. That can be fine if you are sure, but it ties up cash and makes it harder to leave. If you want flexibility, check the monthly or yearly price as well.
3. Confirm what is actually included
- Backups: are they daily, and are they still included after the first year?
- Email: can you create addresses like [email protected], and how many?
- SSL: is the padlock certificate free and automatic?
- Domain: if a “free domain” is included, is it free for the first year only?
4. Ask where your data is stored
For many Canadian businesses it matters that customer data stays in Canada. If that matters to you or your clients, look for a host that names a Canadian data centre, not just “North America”.
5. Read the refund policy
A 30-day money-back guarantee is common. Check whether it covers the whole order or only the hosting, and whether domain fees are refundable (usually they are not).
6. Look at how support works
Some hosts offer phone and chat, others work by email and ticket. What matters most is how quickly a real person answers and whether they actually solve the problem. Look for a stated response time.
7. Plan the move before the deal ends
If you are switching hosts, ask whether migration is free and who does the work. A good host moves your website and email for you, without downtime. Do it before your current plan renews so you do not pay twice.
Our Black Friday deal
From November 20 to December 2, WebClub will offer 50% off the first year on annual hosting plans, with free migration. And as always, your plan renews at the regular price you see on our site, never more. Join our list to get the code first, or see the plans now.