HostPapa Review HostPapa is a web hosting service that competes with big players like Bluehost and GoDaddy but is not as well-known. In this review, we will evaluate its pricing, performance, usability, security, and customer support to determine if it can meet the needs of small businesses. Although HostPapa has been in the industry for some time now, our previous experience with it was disappointing due to its subpar performance. While we won’t go into detail about what went wrong, let’s just say that we didn’t continue using HostPapa after trying it out. However, we are willing to give it another chance and see if there have been any improvements since then. It’s important to note that choosing a web hosting service is a crucial decision for any business, so thoroughly researching and testing different options is essential to ensure you make the right choice.

HostPapa is easy to navigate and use. The cPanel layout is intuitive and allows you to navigate your account easily. The website builder makes it easy to set up a website once you purchase a domain name and the website staging is a helpful tool to have for those who need to set up multiple pages before publishing.

HostPapa Review 2024

HostPapa, a web hosting provider that has had negative reviews in the past, has made considerable progress in its performance and overall hosting experience, as per recent reviews. To validate these claims, our team conducted an in-depth review of the provider by purchasing a plan and testing it out. Our comprehensive analysis resulted in an extensive article that covers every aspect of HostPapa’s services. For those seeking a final verdict on the provider’s performance, the conclusion can be found at the end of the article. We scrutinized elements like uptime, speed, customer support, features, pricing plans, and security to give readers an accurate assessment of the platform’s capabilities. The results show that HostPapa is now a reliable option for web hosting services with improved performance and user experience.

HostPapa Review 2024 Quick Overview

⭐ Rating:	4 ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
💵 Price:	From $2.36/month
📑 Uptime guarantee:	99.9%
⚙️ Hosting types:	Shared, managed WordPress, VPS, and reseller
🌎 Server locations:	The US, Canada, and Europe
👨‍💻 24/7 live support:	Yes
🔥 Coupons:	HostPapa coupon 80% OFF!

What Is HostPapa?

Pros and Cons of HostPapa

When it comes to web hosting, there are plenty of options to choose from. One popular choice among website owners is HostPapa. But before you make a decision, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at what HostPapa has to offer and the advantages and disadvantages of choosing this hosting provider. Whether you’re a small business owner or an individual looking to launch your own website, understanding the pros and cons of HostPapa can help you make an informed decision. So let’s dive in and explore what this hosting provider has to offer!

Cons

• Server response time could be improved
• The native account management panel is outdated

HostPapa Pricing

After conducting research for this HostPapa review, it was discovered that their hosting prices are relatively average. Their shared hosting plans range from $2.36/mo to $10.36/mo, making them quite affordable in comparison to other web hosting providers. Along with shared hosting, HostPapa also offers Managed WordPress, VPS, and reseller hosting options. This variety of options enables users to choose the plan that best suits their website’s needs and budget. Additionally, HostPapa offers exceptional customer support and a user-friendly interface, making it a viable option for both beginners and experienced website owners alike.

Type of hosting	Best for
Shared hosting	Small-to-medium websites. No technical knowledge is needed. Get HostPapa, now 80% OFF!
Managed WordPress hosting	Mid-sized WordPress sites. No technical knowledge is needed.
VPS hosting	Online stores and popular websites. Some technical skills are needed.
Reseller hosting	Agencies and designers, or to manage multiple websites.

HostPapa is a web hosting service provider that primarily caters to small businesses. Its hosting plan options emphasize affordability and cater to different website needs. For those starting out, shared hosting is a cost-effective option, while VPS is geared towards popular sites or online stores. Reseller hosting plans are also available at a relatively low price point and can be used to establish a web hosting brand or design websites for clients. However, shared hosting remains the primary focus for most HostPapa users due to its affordability and ease of use. With HostPapa’s wide range of hosting options, small businesses can choose the plan that best suits their needs and budget.
The provider offers 4 plans for shared hosting, all of which include free domain registration, unlimited bandwidth, Cloudflare CDN, SSL certificates, and multiple free email accounts.

Plan	Features	Price
Start	Allows to connect 1 websites and gives you 100GB storage, alongside 10 email accounts.	$2.36/mo
Plus	Allows to connect 10 websites and gives you 100GB storage, alongside 100 email accounts. Plus, you get staging and a free 30-minute training session.	$4.76/mo
Pro	Unlimited number of websites, storage, and email accounts. Additionally, on top of Plus plans offerings you get Enhanced SSL certificates, automated server backups, and your site is hosted on servers with fewer accounts.	$4.76/mo
Ultra	Everything from the Pro plan, plus larger server resources and enhanced security Protection Power Pro package.	$10.36/mo

HostPapa’s plans are loaded with features and resources at an average price, offering generous storage and additional features. However, it’s worth noting that the advertised prices are only for the initial billing period and will increase threefold upon renewal. It’s reassuring to know that HostPapa offers a standard 30-day money-back guarantee, but keep in mind that certain purchases such as SSL certificates, domain names, domain privacy, and email services are non-refundable. When selecting a hosting provider, it’s important to consider not only the initial cost but also any potential hidden fees or charges that may arise later on.

HostPapa offers a free website migration service, which is a convenient option for users looking to switch to their platform. The professionals take care of everything involved in the transfer process so that users don’t have to worry about it. When it comes to pricing, HostPapa’s rates are average, but the plans come with inclusive resources, offering good value for money. Their plans include features like unlimited bandwidth and disk space, free SSL certificates, and 24/7 customer support. Additionally, they offer website building tools and e-commerce solutions that cater to businesses of all sizes. All in all, HostPapa is a reliable web hosting provider that offers great features at a reasonable price point.

Hosting management – is it easy to use?

While conducting our review of HostPapa, we discovered that it is user-friendly due to its use of the original cPanel for hosting management. This tool facilitates easy management of all website aspects, from adding a domain and email address to setting up WordPress and configuring security settings. To illustrate, it took us less than 3 minutes to add a domain and install WordPress after purchasing a plan. However, the initial interface you encounter is HostPapa’s native account management dashboard, which is somewhat basic.

In the center, there’s a large advertisement encouraging the purchase of a domain name, while important content is located in the top menu bar. In summary, we do not approve of this.Fortunately, cPanel is easily accessible – simply click on the “My cPanel” button to access it. This interface is also useful for contacting support (noticing the green “Chat Now” bar at the bottom), managing services, and monitoring the performance of HostPapa’s servers.Apart from that, this interface will not be frequently seen, which is preferable.Now, let’s focus on the more crucial aspect – cPanel.

HostPapa cPanel – what does it look like?

HostPapa’s hosting management revolves around a customized cPanel interface. It is user-friendly and intuitive, catering to both new and experienced users. The interface allows for easy website management, including WordPress installation, backups, domain registration, and email account creation. Users can efficiently manage their website without technical expertise. HostPapa offers 24/7 customer support for any hosting-related queries or concerns.

Whenever we buy web hosting services, we always:

• Add a domain name using “Addon Domains.” Using the free domains we receive isn’t something we particularly enjoy, as we manage numerous web hosting accounts and find it more convenient to use a dedicated domain registrar for this purpose. However, you should definitely make use of the free domains available to you!
• Install SSL using “Auto SSL” In the cPanel, there is another tool that can be used. Fortunately, HostPapa handles this for you, so once a domain is added, SSL is automatically activated.
• Install WordPress using the Softaculous The library available from the provider for installation.
• Create an email account. Incidentally, with the most affordable plan, you can establish 10 mailboxes, which is excellent!

According to this, we can assess the ease of use and functionality of a provider. If it only takes a few minutes to complete all the tasks, then everything is working well and the navigation is easy. If it takes more than 5 minutes, there is an issue. HostPapa did it perfectly, and it took less than 3 minutes to finish all the tasks. It was very simple and fast in my opinion.

Is it easy to install WordPress with HostPapa?

Installing WordPress with HostPapa is an easy and straightforward process. To begin, navigate to the Softaculous App Installer section located at the bottom of cPanel, and select the “WordPress” icon. This will redirect you to the Softaculous installation page displayed on your screen. From there, click on the “Install Now” button, and follow the prompts to complete the installation process. The entire setup process can be completed in a matter of minutes, allowing you to quickly get started with building your website or blog on WordPress. Additionally, HostPapa offers 24/7 customer support should you encounter any issues during the installation process or require assistance with setting up your WordPress site.

To ensure that your website is fully operational, you’ll need to fill out all the information fields manually. While the “Quick install” option may seem like a convenient shortcut, it’s not always accurate, and it’s best to fill out each field individually. It should only take a minute or two to complete this step.Once you’ve filled out all the necessary information, your website will be live and ready for customization. At this point, you can start creating content and customizing the design to suit your needs. Remember that building a successful website takes time and effort, so be patient and persistent in your efforts. With dedication and perseverance, you can create a stunning website that serves your purpose and meets the needs of your target audience.

HostPapa email hosting – can I set up a professional email?

One of HostPapa’s key strengths is its user-friendly interface. Setting up an email account is as effortless as installing WordPress, requiring only a minute of your time. In the cPanel, navigate to the Email section and select “Email Accounts” to create a new account. Although there are a few more fields to fill out, it only takes a couple of clicks, and you’ll have a professional email account at your fingertips. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that these accounts are stored on your server and may not be suitable for large-scale marketing campaigns or frequent mailing.

HostPapa is a user-friendly and intuitive web hosting platform that offers seamless navigation through its cPanel. Its functionality is top-notch, and users won’t face any difficulties in managing their domains, emails, databases, and other necessary tools. With everything accessible from one place, HostPapa provides a convenient and hassle-free experience for website owners. Additionally, the platform’s customer support team ensures that users receive prompt assistance with any issues they may encounter while using the service.

Performance is HostPapa fast?

The HostPapa review involved three tests that evaluated the provider’s reliability and speed. Over a two-week period, the provider achieved a perfect score of 100% in two of the tests, but its response time was not optimal. Despite this, the provider demonstrated excellent speed overall. To gain a better understanding of the provider’s stability, reliability, and speed, it is worth delving deeper into the results of each test. This will help potential users make an informed decision about whether HostPapa is their ideal web hosting solution. It is important to note that while speed and reliability are crucial factors when selecting a web host, other features like uptime guarantees, customer support, and pricing should also be taken into consideration before making a final decision.

HostPapa uptime and response time

The primary focus of the HostPapa review was on the host’s reliability. The provider’s performance was closely monitored for approximately two weeks, during which there were no outages, resulting in an impressive flawless 100% uptime. It is noteworthy that HostPapa officially guarantees 99.9% uptime. However, the average response time of 1.19s was a bit slower than the industry average response time of around 600ms, indicating some room for improvement. Nonetheless, HostPapa’s excellent track record of delivering reliable hosting services makes it a strong contender in the web hosting market.

HostPapa’s uptime performance is nothing short of remarkable, maintaining an impressive 100% uptime. Although the response time is not exceptional, it’s still within reasonable limits. While this may not be a significant issue for most visitors, it’s worth noting that HostPapa’s response time is almost double the market average. That being said, the reliability of HostPapa’s hosting service remains impressive and is something that should not go unnoticed. It is essential to ensure that your website’s uptime and response time are closely monitored to ensure that it meets your business needs and satisfies your customers’ expectations.

HostPapa Speed

In the second test, the website’s loading speed was evaluated from different locations such as the US, UK, and India. The best results were obtained from the US since the website is hosted there, with a Largest Contentful Paint (LCP) of only 434ms. Although the LCP for the UK and India was higher, they can still be considered good results. But why is LCP important? Google takes into account several metrics when ranking websites on its result page, and LCP is one of them. Websites with an LCP that does not exceed 2.5 seconds have a better chance of ranking higher or even at all. Therefore, it is crucial to optimize your website’s loading speed to ensure that it meets this requirement and provides a better user experience for your visitors.

HostPapa performs exceptionally well, as evident from an empty site. However, testing a fully built website is crucial to determine actual performance. I installed an Astra theme with a Startup template and ran the test again. The LCP (Largest Contentful Paint) was 1.2 seconds, within the recommended 2.5 seconds. While heavier websites may have increased LCP, HostPapa’s performance remains impressive. This showcases their commitment to speed and reliability in hosting services and emphasizes the importance of regular performance testing for optimal user experience.

Apart from page speed, Fully Loaded Time has also become a crucial measure that determines visitors’ experience on a website. HostPapa performs remarkably well in this aspect, with a Fully Loaded Time of just 1.5 seconds. Experts suggest that for the optimal user experience, this time should not exceed 3 seconds.Overall, HostPapa’s speed is impressive and the site loads smoothly. However, it remains to be seen how well the provider can handle an increase in traffic without compromising on load time. This will be a critical factor to consider when evaluating their performance over time.

HostPapa stress testing

During the final test of this HostPapa review, we evaluated how well the provider could handle increased server pressure by simulating 50 virtual users accessing our site for 5 minutes. It is worth mentioning that such a high volume of virtual users can significantly impact server performance and potentially lead to crashes.Regrettably, the test results revealed that HostPapa struggled to manage this level of traffic, with a staggering 74% of requests failing and no meaningful increase in response time. These findings suggest that HostPapa may not be an ideal choice for businesses or websites expecting high levels of traffic. It is crucial to thoroughly assess a web hosting provider’s capabilities before making a decision, especially when it comes to handling increased server pressure and managing website traffic.

It should be noted that it is not uncommon for a shared hosting provider to not pass the initial test. However, I am interested in knowing the capabilities of HostPapa. The initial test involved 15 virtual users. During this test, the response time (blue line) was largely influenced by the increasing number of visitors (grey line), indicating that the server slowed down significantly as more visitors joined. Nevertheless, achieving satisfactory results with 15VUs is commendable. Having 15 continuous visitors on your site every 5 minutes could potentially result in approximately 15,000 unique monthly visits, even on the most affordable plan.

Despite passing the test, HostPapa failed 8 requests, indicating potential limitations in the provider’s plan. Overall, HostPapa demonstrated reliability with 100% uptime and fast loading speed, but may struggle to handle a substantial increase in site traffic.

Security is HostPapa secure?

In our review of HostPapa, we observed that the provider’s security features are adequate but not without limitations. The company offers basic security essentials such as SSL certificates, server-level firewalls, and DDoS protection free of charge in its cheaper plans. However, advanced features are either paid or require you to purchase the most expensive plan. While HostPapa’s security measures may not be perfect, they do provide a decent level of protection for your website and data. It is always recommended to do your own research and assess whether HostPapa’s security offerings meet your specific needs before making a decision.

To be more precise, here is what you receive as standard:

• SSL certificates – They are essential for all websites, ensuring that the communication between your site and an external user remains secure.
• Server firewall and monitoring – A firewall screens the incoming network data and blocks any suspicious data from entering the network. HostPapa’s website does not provide extensive information on this, but it’s reassuring to know that it is in place.
• ModSecurity – It functions as a web application firewall that screens the traffic. In other words, it detects brute force and stops typical malicious attacks on your website.
• DDoS attack prevention – This one safeguards the server against third-party takedown attempts. HostPapa offers several layers of protection, and you have the option to enhance it by activating the free Cloudflare CDN included in all plans.

The Business Pro plan offers additional advanced features, or they can be obtained for an additional fee.

• Automated website backups It is crucial to have backups in place to ensure that your website can be restored to a previous working version in case of any issues. HostPapa offers automatic backups for $19.95 in the first year and $35.88 per year upon renewal, which may not be cost-effective. However, you have the option to set up free backups using WordPress plugins or manually take cPanel backups.
• Protection Power Security Software The initial cost is $19.95 for the first year, and then it is $35.88 per year for renewals. This feature is designed to safeguard your website and its visitors. Here are the specific protections provided by this feature:
• Automatic daily malware scans,
• Automatic malware removal,
• 24/7 support for manual malware removal assistance,
• DDoS (distributed denials of service) protection.
• Domain privacy An extra security service is available for purchase to safeguard your personal data stored in a publicly accessible database when you register your domain. This service is priced at $9.99 per year.

Overall, HostPapa offers a greater range of security measures compared to some providers, although essential features such as automatic backups come at an additional cost. Nevertheless, whether you are running a personal blog or a small business, the bundled security features should effectively protect you from the most prevalent threats.

Customer support Will HostPapa help me?

Should you require assistance, you have the option to reach out to HostPapa’s customer support through live chat, phone support, opening a ticket, or sending a fax, all of which are accessible round the clock, every day of the year. Additionally, HostPapa’s knowledge base comprises more than 2600 articles and guides. Notably, their support team, known as PapaSquad, is proficient in English, Spanish, and French. Evidently, the company prioritizes its support services. As part of this HostPapa review, we decided to test their live chat support, which is our preferred method of contact.

We inquired about changing our primary domain and experienced no wait time. The representative was courteous and well-informed, providing an overview of the procedure and setting up a ticket for our request while we were still in the chat. The process was completed in under 30 minutes after we confirmed acceptance of the associated risks. Overall, the experience was excellent, showcasing the effectiveness of both live chat and ticket support. It’s important to consider the human factor when seeking assistance, as this can vary the level of support received.

HostPapa provides various support options including live chat, phone, ticketing system, and an extensive knowledge base with over 2600 articles, guides, and tutorials in multiple languages. The well-categorized content ensures easy navigation. Customer support and the knowledge base are considered key selling points, offering knowledgeable and fast assistance through different channels.

One-on-one training session

HostPapa provides a unique feature where users who purchase any shared plan except Start are entitled to a one-on-one training session with a professional. This 30-minute session allows you to have personalized access to an expert where you can ask anything you need to know about web hosting. Additionally, HostPapa offers guides and tutorials on topics of interest to further enhance your knowledge.This feature is uncommon in the hosting industry and provides significant value for novice users who may require additional assistance in setting up their website. The training session can cover various topics, including how to install WordPress and make your website look professional. Overall, HostPapa’s one-on-one training session is an excellent opportunity for businesses or individuals who are new to web hosting and want to improve their understanding of it.

While installing and customizing WordPress can be a daunting task, it can be made easy with proper guidance. A skilled agent can provide step-by-step instructions for installing and customizing your theme, along with all the necessary resources to get started. The agent’s deep understanding of WordPress means they can cater to users of all skill levels, providing more detailed information for advanced users as needed. This feature is valuable to both beginners and veterans alike. Ultimately, working with a knowledgeable agent can help streamline the process and ensure you are satisfied with the assistance you receive.

HostPapa Review  The Final Verdict

In the past, HostPapa had a poor reputation due to their unreliable server performance. However, recent testing has shown that the company has made significant improvements and is now offering reliable server performance. This HostPapa review highlights that their plans provide good value for money, and the platform is user-friendly. It’s always encouraging to see providers make changes to improve their services, and it seems like HostPapa has done just that.

What is the ultimate decision if we analyze each aspect individually?

Feature	4 ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆	Hosting for small business websites
Pricing	★ ★ ★ ★ ☆	The prices aren’t the lowest within the market, but still on the lower end, with shared web hosting starting at $2.36/mo. What is impressive is that all plans are very well-equipped and come with free domains, generous server space, and free email accounts. Business essentials included.
Ease of Use	★ ★ ★ ★ ☆	HostPapa uses the standard cPanel for hosting management that’s the pinnacle of ease of use. However, the native account management panel is slightly outdated.
Performance	★ ★ ★ ★ ☆	HostPapa’s performance was very good overall. The site outperformed the 99.9% guarantee by delivering a 100% uptime. The host proved to be fast and trustworthy. However, a bigger traffic surge proved to be a little challenging for the host.
Security	★ ★ ★ ★ ☆	Basics such as SSL certificate, DDoS protection, and server firewall are included in all plans. However, you need to pay extra for malware protection and removal as well as backups. However, all of that is included in the most expensive plan.
Support	★ ★ ★ ★ ☆	HostPapa support is available 24/7 in multiple languages. The agents are very fast and knowledgeable. We had a great experience.

So who do we recommend HostPapa to?

HostPapa is an excellent platform for small business owners looking to manage and grow their websites without limitations. The web hosting provider offers a range of features that are specifically designed to meet the needs of entrepreneurs, including user-friendly website builders, reliable uptime, and fast server speeds. HostPapa also allows you to choose your server location, which can significantly improve site speed if you have a specific target audience in mind. With its affordable pricing plans and excellent customer support, HostPapa is a top recommendation for any small business owner looking to establish a strong online presence.

Alternatives to HostPapa

Although HostPapa is a dependable hosting provider, it may not fulfill all your website’s specific requirements. However, there are several other alternatives available in the market that might be better suited to your needs. If you’re looking for similar deals to HostPapa, then Hostinger and Bluehost are worth considering. These providers offer comparable features and pricing options that could be a better fit for your website.However, before selecting a hosting provider, it is always recommended to do thorough research to ensure that you get the best value for your money. Additionally, consider factors such as uptime guarantees, customer support options, server locations, and security measures while choosing a hosting provider to guarantee maximum efficacy for your website.

Hostinger

Hostinger is a leading provider of shared hosting that offers the most affordable plans in the market. At just $1.79 per month, Hostinger provides an economical solution for website owners on a budget. While its plans may not have all of the features and benefits offered by other providers, Hostinger places performance at the forefront of its offerings. This means that you can expect your website to load quickly and operate seamlessly without sacrificing quality. If you are looking for a cost-effective hosting solution that still delivers high-quality performance, Hostinger is definitely worth considering. In addition to its affordability and performance, Hostinger also provides excellent customer support, with 24/7 live chat assistance available to help you with any questions or concerns.

Bluehost

When it comes to pricing, Bluehost and HostPapa are almost identical, with the former offering plans starting at $2.95 per month. While both hosting providers offer a range of features, Bluehost is particularly focused on WordPress hosting and includes many useful tools such as staging. If you’re a small-to-medium-sized business looking to establish an online presence, Bluehost is an excellent option. Their user-friendly interface and customer support make it easy to get started, even if you have no prior experience with website building or management. Additionally, their scalability ensures that your website can grow alongside your business without any downtime or issues.

HostPapa Alternatives and How They Compare

HostPapa Review 2024: FAQs

Is HostPapa any good?

HostPapa provides a variety of hosting options, comprehensive plans, and numerous security tools. Additionally, the prices are quite affordable, and the customer support is always available to ensure a pleasant and seamless user experience.

Does HostPapa support WordPress?

HostPapa offers support for WordPress and allows for 1-click installation on all plans. Additionally, HostPapa’s “WordPress hosting” plans are identical to the standard shared hosting plans.

Is HostPapa secure?

HostPapa offers secure hosting, providing various security tools such as server firewall and monitoring, ModSecurity package, and DDoS attack prevention.

Where are HostPapa servers located?

HostPapa operates servers in the United States, Canada, and Europe. Upon purchasing a plan, you have the option to select the data center nearest to your desired audience.

How to install WordPress with HostPapa?

In order to set up WordPress with HostPapa, you need to find cPanel in the client management area and select the Softaculous Installer icon. Choose WordPress, and then proceed with the instructions. The entire process should only take a few minutes.