Top IONOS Alternatives for Your Website Needs  

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