This is a very common question for those who are exploring the idea of getting a domain hosting account. First, you need an Internet access account, available throughout North America for around $25/month. Having a local access account with an ISP (such as AOL or MSN), gives you access to the Internet. It also gives you the connection which allows you to make use of an FTP program on your computer which in turn can upload your files to a server anywhere in the world.

For example, perhaps your web hosting company is located in Florida. However, you live in California. How do you get your web pages from your computer in California to your virtual server in Florida? It's simple! All you need to do is to login to your local access provider and once your Internet connection is established, you simply launch your FTP application and upload your files to your server. Many web design programs, such as Microsoft's FrontPage, have a publish button which automates this process for you.

You can also set-up your email accounts to forward your mail at your hosting account to your dial-in username at your local ISP. It is a very easy process, which can often be set-up via. an online web control panel. Thus, if your local ISP doesn't offer you the services which you need, feel free to search for a hosting company anywhere. However, since cross-continent transfers can be slower, we recommend you try to find a provider in your country. HostIndex.com allows you to search for a web hosting provider close to you. International Users may search by continent and North American users may search by State or Province. View our search engine by clicking here.