Key takeaways
- IONOS is a decent web host, but some users may be considering switching hosting providers because of their lack of transparency, pricing and billing concerns, difficult cancelation process and more.
- There are plenty of alternatives to pick from, so assess your needs and compare each alternative with the best features suited for your goals.
- Network Solutions is just one of the many alternatives you can choose from, but it’s a simple but reliable option you can consider for your website.
IONOS, previously known as 1&1, is well-regarded for its wide range of hosting plans and domain services. But as your needs change, you might find that IONOS no longer fits your business.
If you’re considering the options, you’re not alone. Whether it’s for better pricing, more user-friendly tools, or specific features that IONOS doesn’t offer, finding the right web hosting solution can make all the difference.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through great alternatives to IONOS, helping you find the perfect fit for your website or business needs.
Why consider alternatives to IONOS?
IONOS has an extensive range of hosting plans, website builders, and domain registration services. However, there are several reasons why you might want to explore other options. Let’s look at these reasons and customer feedback.
Lack of transparency
A number of IONOS users have left negative reviews, calling the company out for hidden fees and lack of transparency. Some customers complained about their upselling tactics and hidden charges for services they didn’t avail.
If you’re fed up with these practices, it’s best to find a better alternative to IONOS.
Pricing and billing concerns
IONOS’ entry-level plans are cheap, but when you factor in the additional fees for premium features and add-ons, the bills can suddenly accumulate. The lack of clear billing and transparency can also be risky. Some users end up paying for services they didn’t intend to use, and canceling those services isn’t always straightforward — making it easy to feel stuck with charges you didn’t expect.
Difficult cancellation process
Another common complaint is how hard it is to cancel services with IONOS. Some users reported that even after requesting cancellation, they were still billed. Others said the process was confusing or required multiple steps, like calling customer service or waiting for confirmation emails. It may even take months to resolve the issue, and they don’t offer refunds.
Customer support challenges
Customer support quality can significantly impact on your overall experience with a website builder and hosting provider. Some users reported that IONOS’ support can be slow or less effective in resolving issues. Reviews range from slow response, unreachable support and never-ending transfers.
Limited ease of use
While IONOS provides a set of features, some users find its interface and tools less intuitive than those of other providers. Users reported difficulty in creating a website even with professional services. For those who prioritize ease of use and a streamlined experience, alternatives may offer more user-friendly website builders and control panels.
Performance and speed issues
Website performance is critical for user satisfaction and search engine optimization (SEO). Some IONOS users reported long periods of website downtime, which can affect site performance and search engine rankings. Choosing another provider’s web hosting plan can help improve your website’s performance and overall user experience.
If you’re looking for a hosting provider that’s transparent, affordable, straightforward, and easy-to-use with reliable support, then it’s best to find an alternative to IONOS.
Let’s explore your options:
1. Network Solutions
Network Solutions is a solid alternative for those looking for a user-friendly platform tailored to small businesses. It’s the first domain registrar on the internet; therefore, it’s built years of credibility and a solid reputation.
But it’s long expanded from just domain registration, offering website building tools with integrated hosting and domain services so users create and manage their site in one place. While the design options are more basic compared to some competitors, it covers the basics and provides tools to get your business online quickly.
Network Solutions also includes email services and online marketing tools. It’s a practical choice for businesses that want everything under one roof without juggling multiple providers.
Key features:
- Website builder with templates
- Integrated web hosting
- Domain registration
- Email hosting
- eCommerce support (with select plans)
- SEO and online marketing tools
- Mobile-optimized templates
- Customer support via chat and phone
- SSL certificates (at additional cost)
Pricing:
*Prices are subject to change without notice
Best for: Small business owners and beginners who prioritize simplicity and effectiveness in website creation.
Pros | Cons |
All-in-one solution | Website builder is more basic compared to competitors |
Long-standing reputation in the domain and hosting industry | Pricing is higher than some budget-friendly providers |
Offers domain privacy and SSL certificates | Add-on features may cost extra |
Mobile-optimized templates available | Limited design customization options |
SEO and online marketing tools included | Customer support is average |
Easy domain management and renewals | |
Email hosting is available with domain plans |
2. Bluehost
Bluehost is a highly regarded hosting provider, established in 2003, known for its reliable services and user-friendly features. It offers a range of hosting options, including:
- Shared hosting
- VPS hosting
- Dedicated hosting
- Cloud hosting
- Managed WordPress hosting
Officially endorsed by WordPress.org, Bluehost is recognized for its seamless integration with WordPress, ease of use, and optimized performance for WordPress sites. The platform includes features such as one-click installations, automatic updates, and dedicated support for WordPress users.
Key features:
- One-click WordPress integration
- User-friendly interface
- 24/7 customer support
- Free domain for the first year
- Free SSL certificate
- SiteLock security
- Content delivery network (CDN)
- Scalability
Pricing:
*Prices are subject to change without notice
Best for: Small to medium businesses and WordPress site owners looking for reliable and affordable web hosting services.
Pros | Cons |
Officially recommended by WordPress.org | Intro pricing is low, but renewal rates are much higher |
Easy WordPress integration and 1-click installs | Website builder is limited compared to standalone builders |
Free domain and SSL certificate for the first year | Migration fees for transferring existing sites |
24/7 customer support via chat and phone | Some users report inconsistent support experiences |
Scalable hosting options (shared, VPS, dedicated) | Many upsells during checkout |
Built-in caching and performance tools | Basic plans lack advanced features like staging environments |
User-friendly dashboard with guided setup |
3. HostGator
HostGator is a well-known web hosting service, celebrated for its flexibility. Since its founding in 2002, the company has earned a strong reputation for its wide range of hosting options, such as:
- Shared hosting
- WordPress hosting
- eCommerce hosting
- Dedicated servers
- VPS hosting
- Reseller hosting
It’s particularly praised for its scalability, allowing users to easily upgrade their plans as their needs grow. The platform provides robust tools and features designed to accommodate various types of websites, and its intuitive control panel makes site management straightforward.
Key features:
- User-friendly interface
- 24/7 round the clock assistance
- Free website builder
- Free domain for the first year
- Scalable solutions
- Performance optimization
- Free SSL certificate and optional SiteLock security
Pricing:
*Prices are subject to change without notice
Best for: Growing websites and business who want a range of options and dependable service.
Pros | Cons |
Budget-friendly hosting plans with frequent discounts | Renewal rates are significantly higher than intro pricing |
Unmetered bandwidth and generous storage even on basic plans | Website builder is basic compared to competitors |
Free domain and SSL certificate for the first year | Many upsells during checkout |
24/7 customer support | Site speed and performance can vary on shared hosting |
Easy-to-use control panel (cPanel) | Backups and advanced security features cost extra |
One-click installs for WordPress and other apps | No free site migration on basic plans |
99.9% uptime guarantee | Interface can feel outdated compared to modern competitors |
4. SiteGround
SiteGround is another web hosting business that offers various hosting options, including shared and cloud hosting. It’s known for fast speeds and reliable service.
Its responsive support team and performance-focused features make it a top choice for anyone who needs dependable hosting with great customer care.
However, SiteGround’s downsides include higher pricing compared to some competitors, especially on renewal rates. It also has limitations on storage and website migrations with lower-tier plans. Additionally, its performance may vary based on the specific hosting plan you choose.
Key features:
- 24/7 customer support
- Automated daily backups
- Free SSL certificates
- Free website builder
- Integrated Cloudflare CDN
- Easy site migration
- Regular security updates
- Scalable solutions
Pricing:
*Prices are subject to change without notice
Best for: For website owners who value support and reliability.
Pros | Cons |
Excellent speed and performance with built-in caching | Higher pricing compared to budget hosts |
Strong security features (daily backups, firewall, anti-bot AI) | Limited storage on all plans |
Outstanding customer support with fast response times | No free domain included |
Officially recommended by WordPress.org | Renewal rates are much higher than initial pricing |
User-friendly interface with custom Site Tools dashboard | Some advanced features only available on higher-tier plans |
Free daily backups and email hosting | No monthly billing option on shared hosting plans |
Built-in staging and Git tools (on GrowBig and GoGeek plans) | Website builder is not the main focus; better for WordPress users |
5. Hosting.com
Hosting.com, previously known as A2 Hosting, is renowned for its speed and developer-friendly features. Known for its fast performance, the web hosting platform offers a range of hosting options designed to ensure quick load times and smooth operation. It also provides various tools and features tailored for developers, including support for multiple programming languages and easy server customization.
It’s more popular for users who want a site builder and robust development tools within their web hosting package. But some users may find its advanced features less comprehensive than other hosting providers.
Key features:
- High-speed performance Turbo servers
- Developer-friendly tools
- 24/7 customer support
- Free website migration
- Free SSL certificates
- Dual firewall protection
- Free HackScan protection
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Pricing:
*Prices are subject to change without notice
Best for: Site owners prioritizing speed and developer-centric features.
Pros | Cons |
Very fast performance with Turbo servers (on select plans) | Turbo plans are more expensive |
Free site migration and SSL certificate | Intro pricing is low, but renewals are much higher |
Developer-friendly (supports multiple CMS, programming languages) | Some features may be too advanced for beginners |
24/7/365 customer support via chat, phone, and email | No free domain included with hosting plans |
Anytime money-back guarantee | Interface and onboarding are less beginner-friendly |
Green hosting commitment with carbon-neutral initiatives | Website builder is not as robust as competitors |
Optimized WordPress hosting with pre-configured settings | Backups and security tools may cost extra on basic plans |
6. GoDaddy
As one of the largest and most well-known providers, GoDaddy offers a wide range of services, including domain registration, web hosting, site building, and online marketing tools. It provides solutions for both individuals and businesses looking to establish and grow their online presence.
Just note that GoDaddy has relatively higher renewal prices, upselling of additional services, and mixed reviews regarding customer support. Additionally, its user interface can be less intuitive for beginners, and some users might find its hosting features and performance less robust compared to specialized hosting providers.
Key benefits:
- Domain registration
- Web hosting
- Website builder
- 24/7 customer support
- Email hosting
- SSL certificates
- Integrated SEO, email marketing, and online advertising tools
- Scalable solutions
Price:
*Prices are subject to change without notice
Best for: Small to medium businesses seeking a broad range of services.
Pros | Cons |
Wide range of services (domains, hosting, email, marketing) | Aggressive upselling during checkout and after signup |
Beginner-friendly website builder with templates | Many features (SSL, backups, email) cost extra |
24/7 customer support via chat and phone | Higher renewal rates for domains and hosting |
Fast and easy domain registration process | Website builder is limited in customization compared to competitors |
Large knowledge base and tutorials | No free SSL on basic hosting plans |
One-stop shop for domains and business tools | Site performance can lag on shared hosting |
Offers Microsoft 365 email integration | Cancellation process can be confusing |
7. InMotion Hosting
InMotion Hosting is a web hosting provider known for its comprehensive range of hosting solutions and focus on performance. It offers various hosting options including shared, VPS, and dedicated hosting, catering to different needs and budgets.
Just keep the downsides in check. These include higher prices compared to some competitors, limited storage on lower-tier plans, and potential restrictions on resource usage with certain plans. Plus, their site builder is only available if you choose their WordPress Hosting solutions for building your website.
Finally, while its support is generally strong, the setup process and account management may be less straightforward to others.
Key features:
- Free website migration
- Free domain and SSL certificates
- Daily backups
- Easy-to-use drag-and-drop website builder
- Advanced security tools
- Developer tools
- 24/7 customer support
- 90-day money-back guarantee
Pricing:
*Prices are subject to change without notice
Best for: Small to medium businesses and users seeking robust performance and reliable support.
Pros | Cons |
Great performance and uptime on SSD-powered servers | No free domain on monthly plans |
Free SSL, email, and site migration included | Renewal rates are higher than initial pricing |
Excellent customer support with live chat, phone, and email | Limited data center locations (mostly U.S.-based) |
Generous storage and bandwidth, even on entry plans | No Windows-based hosting options |
Free backups and malware protection included | Some features locked to higher-tier plans |
Developer-friendly with SSH, staging, and multiple CMS support | Website builder is basic and not ideal for advanced design needs |
90-day money-back guarantee | Interface may feel dated to some users |
8. GreenGeeks
GreenGeeks is an eco-friendly hosting provider dedicated to sustainability. Known for its commitment to reducing environmental impact, the company offsets its carbon footprint by purchasing renewable energy credits.
It combines its dedication to the environment with reliable hosting solutions. So, it’s a great choice for users who want to support eco-friendly practices while maintaining an online presence. But while its focus on eco-friendly hosting is a strong point, it may not offer as many advanced features or customization options as some competitors.
They recently offered a website builder powered by Weebly. It’s available to all GreenGeeks Ecosite customers, but not GreenGeeks Reseller customers. Plus, you need to specifically open a ticket in your GreenGeeks account to activate it.
Key features:
- Eco-friendly hosting
- Built-in caching and a CDN
- 24/7 customer support
- Free website migration
- Free SSL certificates
- Website builder
- Automatic daily backups
- Developer-friendly
Pricing:
*Prices are subject to change without notice
Best for: Users who prioritize sustainability without sacrificing performance.
Pros | Cons |
Eco-friendly hosting with 300% green energy match | Higher renewal prices after the initial term |
Free domain, SSL, CDN, and nightly backups included | No data centers outside North America and Europe |
Fast performance with LiteSpeed servers | Some advanced features limited to higher-tier plans |
Developer-friendly (supports WordPress, Joomla, Drupal, more) | Website builder is basic compared to competitors |
24/7 customer support via chat, phone, and email | Setup process may be slightly technical for beginners |
Scalable hosting options (shared, VPS, reseller) | No monthly billing on most shared plans |
Built-in caching and performance tools | Limited marketing tools compared to some other hosts |
9. DreamHost
DreamHost is a web hosting company founded in 1996, known for its strong performance and commitment to customer satisfaction. It offers a range of hosting services including shared, VPS, and managed WordPress hosting solutions. Along with domain registration, website building, and email hosting.
It provides reliable uptime, fast speeds, and strong security features. It also values transparency and aims to make the user experience straightforward and accessible.
Just keep in mind that DreamHost has higher renewal rates compared to some competitors, a less intuitive control panel for beginners, and limited support options. Additionally, some users may find its website migration process less streamlined.
Key features:
- 24/7 customer support
- Free domain privacy
- Free SSL certificates
- Daily backups
- Easy website migration
- Developer-friendly programming languages and tools
- 97-day money-back guarantee
Pricing:
*Prices are subject to change without notice
Best for: Entrepreneurs who value reliable performance, strong security, and long-term support.
Pros | Cons |
Officially recommended by WordPress.org | No free phone support (chat and email only) |
Transparent pricing with no aggressive upselling | Control panel is custom, not cPanel (may have a learning curve) |
Free domain, SSL, and privacy protection included | No email hosting on basic Shared Starter plan (sold separately) |
97-day money-back guarantee (one of the longest) | Limited support hours for live chat |
SSD storage and fast load times | Fewer data center locations |
Unlimited traffic on all shared hosting plans | Website builder is basic and not ideal for complex sites |
Strong focus on privacy and security | Some advanced features only available on higher-tier plans |
10. WP Engine
WP Engine specializes in managed WordPress hosting. Known for its high performance and robust features, WP Engine provides optimized hosting environments specifically designed for WordPress sites. With services like automatic updates, premium support, and enhanced security, it caters to users who need a reliable, high-performance platform.
However, watch out for its premium pricing since it can be significantly higher than other managed WordPress hosts. Plus, it has restrictions on storage and bandwidth with its lower-tier plans. Users may also face extra costs for advanced features.
Finally, its specialized focus on WordPress may limit flexibility for those needing support for multiple CMS platforms.
Key features:
- Premium support
- Free SSL certificates
- Automatic daily backups
- Performance optimization
- Developer tools
- Scalable plans
Pricing:
*Prices are subject to change without notice
Best for: WordPress site owners seeking managed WordPress hosting.
Pros | Cons |
Premium managed WordPress hosting with top-tier performance | Higher pricing than shared or budget hosts |
Daily backups, free SSL, and advanced security features included | Only supports WordPress — no other CMS options |
Built-in caching and CDN for faster load times | Limited storage and bandwidth on entry plans |
Staging environments and one-click restore features | No email hosting included |
Excellent developer tools (SSH access, Git integration, etc.) | Overages can apply if you exceed traffic limits |
24/7 expert WordPress support | Can be complex for beginners or non-technical users |
Strong uptime and fast server response times | No domain registration services |
11. Hostinger
Hostinger offers professional hosting services across the globe. Established in 2004, Hostinger is known for offering affordable and flexible hosting solutions. The company provides a range of services, including shared, cloud, and VPS hosting, with a focus on cost-effectiveness and scalability.
It’s recognized for its user-friendly interface, competitive pricing, and strong performance metrics, such as fast load times and high uptime. It also offers 24/7 customer support and various features like free website builders and SSL certificates with its plans.
Just note Hostinger’s downsides, including limited customer support options, which can be basic unless you opt for higher-tier plans, and potential performance issues on lower-tier packages. Its low pricing is attractive, but it may come with restrictions on advanced features and resources. Lastly, some users might find its interface less user-friendly compared to other providers.
Key features:
- Affordable pricing
- Easy-to-use control panel and website builder.
- 24/7 customer support
- Free website migration
- Free SSL certificates
- Performance optimization
- Scalable solutions
Pricing:
*Prices are subject to change without notice
Best for: Small businesses seeking affordable hosting with flexible scalability options.
Pros | Cons |
Very affordable entry-level pricing | Renewal rates are higher after initial term |
Fast performance with LiteSpeed servers | No phone support (chat only) |
Free domain and SSL included on most plans | Daily backups only on higher-tier plans |
User-friendly hPanel (custom control panel) | No traditional cPanel (may not suit all users) |
One-click installs for WordPress and other apps | Limited server locations compared to larger hosts |
24/7 customer support via live chat | Basic plan has limited resources |
Website builder included with plans | Some features require manual setup or upgrades |
How to choose the right IONOS alternatives
When considering alternatives to IONOS, it’s important to evaluate various factors to ensure you select a provider that best fits your needs. Below is a quick cheat sheet on each alternative’s stats for easier evaluation.
Brand | Transparency | Price and billing | Cancellation process | Customer support | Ease of use | Performance and speed |
Network Solutions | Good | Affordable but more expensive with add-ons | Average | Chat and phone support | Beginner-friendly | Basic but reliable |
Bluehost | Good | Low intro, high renewal | Easy | Chat and phone support (24/7) | User-friendly | Strong with built-in tools |
HostGator | Moderate | Affordable intro, high renewal | Confusing for some | Chat, phone, and email support (24/7) | Easy (cPanel) | Variable on shared plans |
SiteGround | Excellent | Expensive renewal | Smooth | Chat and phone support (24/7) | Clean UI | Excellent |
Hosting.com | Good | Fair intro, high renewal | Straightforward | Chat, phone, and email support (24/7) | Less beginner-friendly | Very fast (Turbo) |
GoDaddy | Poor | Aggressive upsells, high renewal | Confusing | Chat and phone support (24/7) | Decent but cluttered UI | Inconsistent |
InMotion Hosting | Good | High but inclusive | Fair | Chat, phone, and email support (24/7) | Moderate | Strong |
GreenGeeks | Good | Green value, high renewal | Standard | Chat, phone, and email support (24/7) | Fair for beginners | Fast (LiteSpeed) |
DreamHost | Excellent | Affordable, high renewal | Easy, long refund window | Chat (limited hours) and email | Simple but uses custom panel | Fast and stable |
WP Engine | Excellent | Premium pricing | Clear but strict | Chat support (24/7, WordPress-focused) | Not ideal for beginners | Top-tier |
Hostinger | Moderate | Low intro, limited features | Easy | Chat support (24/7) | User-friendly (hPanel) | Fast on higher tiers |
But if you’re still undecided, here’s a more detailed guide to help you choose the right alternative:
1. Assess your needs
Start by determining what you need from a hosting provider. Consider factors like the type of website you’re building, whether it’s a personal blog or an eCommerce site. Then, think about the expected traffic volume, required features, and budget.
Understanding your needs helps you select a provider that offers the right combination of services and features. For example, if you need extensive eCommerce functionalities, look for providers with strong eCommerce features.
2. Compare pricing and value
Evaluate the potential alternatives’ pricing plans and compare them to what you’re currently paying with IONOS. Look for transparent pricing with no hidden fees and assess what features are included at different price points. Finding a cost-effective solution that offers good value for money is crucial, especially if you’re on a tight budget. Some providers may offer more competitive pricing or better features for the same cost.
3. Evaluate performance and speed
Research the performance metrics of potential alternatives, including uptime guarantees and speed. Check user reviews and independent performance tests to gauge how well the provider handles website traffic. Good performance and fast loading speeds are important for user experience and SEO. Providers with strong performance metrics ensure your website runs smoothly and efficiently.
4. Check ease of use and interface
Consider the usability of the provider’s interface and tools. Look for user-friendly features like intuitive website builders, easy-to-navigate control panels, and straightforward setup processes. A user-friendly interface can significantly impact your website’s maintenance and management.
5. Review customer support options
Assess the quality and availability offered by potential alternatives’ customer support. Look for 24/7 support, multiple contact methods (live chat, phone, email), and user reviews regarding support experiences. Reliable customer support resolves your issues promptly and minimizes downtime. Choose providers with high-rated support to ensure you get timely assistance when needed.
6. Consider scalability and growth
As your website or business grows, you’ll need a hosting solution that can accommodate increased traffic and resource demands. Scalable providers help you expand without having to switch services. Look at the scalability options available with each provider. Ensure they offer plans and resources that can grow with your website’s needs, such as additional bandwidth, storage, or higher-tier plans.
7. Check for specific features and integrations
Tailoring your hosting solution to your specific requirements ensures you get the most out of your provider. Identify any specific features or integrations you require, such as advanced eCommerce tools, content management systems, or third-party integrations. Ensure the alternative offers these functionalities.
Choose the best IONOS alternative
Selecting the right web hosting provider is vital for achieving your online goals. By exploring alternatives to IONOS, you can find a provider that better aligns with your needs, whether it’s better pricing, superior performance, or exceptional customer support. Evaluate each option based on your specific requirements to ensure you choose a hosting solution that will help your website thrive.
Frequently asked questions
Considering alternatives to IONOS might be beneficial if you’re looking for better pricing, more flexible features, superior customer support, or improved performance. Alternatives may offer cost-effective plans, advanced customization options, or specialized features that better suit your needs.
Look for providers that offer competitive pricing, reliable uptime, user-friendly interfaces, and strong customer support. Check if they provide the specific features you need, such as easy scalability, site migration support, and comprehensive security measures.
Customer support is crucial, especially if you encounter technical issues or need assistance with your hosting service. Look for providers with strong customer support reputations, offering 24/7 availability through multiple channels such as live chat, phone, and email.
Most hosting providers offer tools and support to assist with website migration. Check if the alternative provider offers free or paid migration services and ensure they provide clear instructions or assistance for transferring your site from IONOS.