Key takeaways:
- Network Solutions is a full-service provider known for its stability and all-in-one packages, while GoDaddy is a do-it-yourself platform that prioritizes speed and initial affordability.
- Both providers have complex pricing structures. Network Solutions offers predictable but potentially high-cost bundles, while GoDaddy uses low introductory rates that can lead to significant increases upon renewal.
- When choosing between GoDaddy and Network Solutions, know whether you prioritize the dedicated security and high-touch support of Network Solutions or the ease of use and quick access to online selling features offered by GoDaddy.
Are you deciding between Network Solutions and GoDaddy for your website? Both offer distinct features, but the best fit depends on your specific needs.
This comparison dives into their ease of use, customization, pricing, professional services, performance, and security—based on user feedback—to help small business owners and entrepreneurs make an informed decision about Network Solutions and GoDaddy.
How we compared Network Solutions and GoDaddy
Choosing the right platform for your business is a big decision. To help you, we created a side-by-side comparison of Network Solutions and GoDaddy. We wanted to give you an honest look at which platform offers the best value for money, has the strongest reputation, and provides the most useful core features.
We looked at the following:
- User review analysis. We prioritized real-world experiences by analyzing customer reviews from leading platforms like G2, Capterra, Trustpilot, Reddit, and other industry-specific forums. This helped us understand user satisfaction levels and common issues directly from those who use the platforms every day.
- Cross-platform validation. To keep our findings well-rounded and reliable, we compared feedback across multiple platforms to validate and identify consistent themes.
- Real-world cost analysis. We went beyond the standard pricing tables. Our focus was on the actual costs users reported, including what you might pay for upgrades, renewals, and any potential hidden fees that can affect your budget.
- Limited hands-on testing. While our insights primarily come from consolidating authentic user reviews, we did conduct limited hands-on testing. Where free trials were available, we used them for basic verification to get a feel for the platforms ourselves.
Network Solutions vs. GoDaddy: Overview
Both Network Solutions and GoDaddy are industry leaders that provide a comprehensive suite of online services, including domain registration, hosting, and online presence essentials.
Network Solutions
Since 1979, Network Solutions has supported small and medium-sized businesses in building and maintaining their online presence. With decades of experience, the focus has remained on providing practical tools and services that meet real business needs.
We offer a robust website builder, domain registration, hosting, and a variety of professional services for design and marketing. Everything is designed to be straightforward and accessible to help business owners manage their online presence with confidence.
GoDaddy
Founded in 1997, GoDaddy has become a leading name in web hosting and domain registration—it now commands a significant market share.
Its services—domain registration, web hosting, website builders, and online marketing—aim to be accessible to people of all skill levels, making it a popular choice for quickly getting a website up and running.
Despite occasional feedback on sales approaches, its broad range of services and intuitive interface consistently make it a leading choice.
Below is a table of quick comparison to help you decide:
Feature | Network Solutions | GoDaddy |
---|---|---|
Target Users | (Best for) Users who value an AI-assisted start and strong eCommerce marketplace integration. Businesses focused on selling across multiple external marketplaces (Amazon, Etsy, eBay). Businesses that prefer hands-on, expert-led managed services for SEO, PPC, and website maintenance. Businesses prioritizing daily backups and a dedicated, experienced hosting infrastructure. | (Best for) Beginners and non-technical users who need a simple, intuitive drag-and-drop builder. Retailers needing a fully integrated store, fast payment processing, and powerful recovery tools. Users who prefer a lower upfront cost and have more of a DIY approach to marketing with built-in tools. Users who need a strong standard security package, including a free SSL and 24/7 server monitoring. |
Domain Registration | Primarily started as a domain registrar that offers a wide range of domain extensions Often includes a free domain with annual hosting plans | Also a leading domain registrar with a vast selection of domain names Often offers discounted or free domains with hosting plans |
Hosting | Enterprise-grade hardware and primarily offers Unix-based hosting with its own control panel. | Uses NVMe SSDs for superior speed and provides a choice between Linux (cPanel) and Windows (Plesk) operating systems |
Website Builder | Includes an easy-to-use website builder tool powered by AI | Offers its own GoDaddy Website Builder, known for its user-friendliness, especially for beginners |
Templates | Offers a large library of templates with different design categories and customization options. | Provides a curated selection of modern and mobile-responsive templates tailored by industry. |
eCommerce functionality | Robust set of eCommerce tools including multi-channel selling (Amazon, Etsy, eBay), inventory management, and bulk product editing. | Offers a powerful “Online Store” solution with integrated GoDaddy Payments, abandoned cart recovery, and selling on social/marketplaces. |
Marketing capabilities | Custom web design In-house SEO Tailored pay-per-click (PPC) campaigns for improved online visibility and organic traffic. | Managed SEO Social media and digital advertising Content creation Custom web design Full ecommerce store setup with integrated marketing tools. |
Security | Includes features like malware scanning and secure FTP (SFTP) Offers SiteLock website security as an add-on. | Provides security features like 24/7 monitoring and DDoS protection Offers enhanced web security as a free trial on some plans or included in others |
Customer Support | Offers 24/7 technical support via chat and phone support at specific hours | Provides 24/7 support via phone, chat, and SMS, and is generally known for readily available support, although the quality can be variable according to user reviews |
Pricing & Value | Pricing and included features can sometimes be less transparent, with features potentially offered as add-ons | Known for promotional pricing for the initial term, but renewal prices can be significantly higher Upselling of additional services is common |
Network Solutions vs. GoDaddy: Features comparison
We will cover each of the features in the table above in detail, look at customer reviews, and provide a final verdict on which service is best in the sections below.
Network Solutions vs. GoDaddy: Key benefits
Choosing between Network Solutions and GoDaddy comes down to prioritizing either simplicity and initial low cost or stability and hands-on professional services.
Let’s compare the key benefits of Network Solutions and GoDaddy for small business owners.
1. Ease of use and platform interface
Both provide a user-friendly interface; one uses the industry-standard cPanel/Plesk, while the other a custom-design one.
- GoDaddy. Uses the industry-standard cPanel/Plesk for hosting management (though sometimes a customized version) and offers a highly intuitive, drag-and-drop website builder. This makes managing domains, email, and files relatively straightforward for beginners.
- Network Solutions. Uses a custom-designed user interface that many long-time users find less intuitive and more complicated than cPanel. While their builder is AI-powered and easy to use, the back-end hosting control panel has a steeper learning curve.
2. Performance, reliability, and security
Both providers offer strong uptime guarantees, but they achieve security and speed in different ways.
- Performance. Network Solutions has historically shown fast speeds (around 2.7 seconds) and strong Unix-based hosting reliability, sometimes measured at a near 100% uptime. GoDaddy utilizes fast NVMe SSDs for files and promises a competitive 99.9% uptime.
- Security & backups. Network Solutions offers a strong advantage by including daily backups in all its plans, which is crucial for disaster recovery. GoDaddy is competitive by including a free SSL Certificate on most modern hosting plans and robust 24/7 monitoring. Both offer DDoS protection.
3. Customer support and managed services
While neither company is universally praised for its support, both offer 24/7 ways to contact support.
- GoDaddy. Offers accessible 24/7 support via phone and live chat. While some user reviews criticize upselling and agent expertise, the sheer availability is a major plus for urgent issues.
- Network Solutions. Also offers 24/7 technical support, but is better known for its comprehensive, expert-led digital marketing and custom design services (PPC, SEO, etc.), making it better for SMBs who want to pay for a “done-for-you” solution.
4. Pricing and business model
The main difference is in the long-term price structure.
- GoDaddy. Offers aggressive introductory pricing which makes it highly affordable for the first term. However, their renewal rates often jump significantly, and users frequently note the persistent use of upselling tactics.
- Network Solutions. Generally has a higher starting price but is often viewed as more transparent in its package offerings, bundling more features upfront. It is a more costly long-term commitment.
The verdict
For the typical new small business owner seeking an all-in-one solution that prioritizes ease of use and quick launch capability, GoDaddy is the recommended choice. However, businesses with a higher budget looking for maximum security through guaranteed daily backups and professional, hands-on managed services may prefer Network Solutions.
Network Solutions vs. GoDaddy: Domain names
For a small business owner, picking a domain registrar is both finding a name and a partner. The ideal choice should offer ease of use, affordability, and a simple path to an all-in-one online solution—from domain to website and beyond. Both Network Solutions and GoDaddy are giants in the industry, but they cater to these needs in different ways.
Network Solutions
Network Solutions is a long-standing and reputable name, known for its focus on providing a comprehensive, business-centric suite of services. This makes it a great fit for non-technical users who want to get everything they need from a single provider. It’s built for those who value stability, comprehensive support, and a one-stop-shop approach to building an online presence.
Key features:
- Premium DNS. This enhances your site’s security and speed. For a small business, this means faster website loading times and better protection against attacks like DDoS, ensuring your site is reliable and always available to customers.
- AdultBlock (and AdultBlock+). These brand protection tools are crucial for safeguarding your reputation. Preventing your trademarked name from being registered on adult-themed domain extensions saves you from potential reputational damage and the costs of defensive domain registration.
GoDaddy
GoDaddy has a strong focus on user-friendly interfaces, trendy website designs, and a robust eCommerce ecosystem. It’s a popular choice for new business owners attracted by its frequent, low-cost introductory offers and a quick, streamlined path to getting a site live.
Key features:
- Domain Auctions. This is a key advantage for small businesses looking to acquire a valuable, pre-owned domain name. Instead of starting from scratch, this marketplace gives you a chance to buy a memorable, high-value web address that could give you a competitive edge.
- Domain Value Appraisal. This tool helps small business owners understand the market value of a potential domain name. It considers key factors like length, keywords, and brand potential, so you make a smarter investment decision from the start.
The verdict
For a small business owner comparing providers, GoDaddy is often considered by those prioritizing affordability and a quick setup process. The platform is known for its user-friendly tools and frequent low-price promotions, offering a cohesive ecosystem that supports both modern website design and eCommerce functionality. One long-time small business customer who has used GoDaddy for over 15 years notes the pricing as “very fantastic – well priced,” and highlights the accessibility of customer service, stating, “if you have a question within minutes you get someone very qualified to solve the issue.”
On the other hand, Network Solutions is positioned as a provider of a robust, all-in-one business solution for those who may prioritize a complete and comprehensive service suite. Users who value this centralized approach often cite strong support as a key benefit, with one satisfied user noting: “The customer service is fantastic and quick, with qualified help for hosting, domain registration, DNS, and even business email hosting.”
Ultimately, the best choice depends on whether you need the quick setup and affordable entry-point offered by GoDaddy, or the comprehensive, all-in-one service and support provided by Network Solutions.
Network Solutions vs. GoDaddy: Web hosting
Web hosting is the foundation of your entire online presence. A smart choice provides ease of use, affordability, and the confidence of an all-in-one solution that can grow with your business.
Let’s check how Network Solutions and GoDaddy compare to each other and deliver on these essential needs.
Network Solutions
One of the oldest players in the web hosting industry, Network Solutions focuses on providing services to businesses. Their comprehensive suite of online services is like a one-stop shop for anyone, especially businesses, looking to establish and grow online.
Key features:
- Security and reliability. Network Solutions provides a secure foundation with advanced firewalls, DDoS protection, and a notable 99.99% Unix uptime guarantee—which is important for businesses that can’t afford downtime.
- Intuitive management. Despite its enterprise-level features, the hosting is designed for ease of use, with a straightforward control panel and one-click installers for popular platforms like WordPress. This allows you to focus on your business, not technical maintenance.
- All-in-one solution. The hosting is seamlessly integrated with the domain, email, and security products, offering a cohesive experience that is easy to manage from a single dashboard.
GoDaddy
GoDaddy is known for its broad appeal, user-friendly interface, and aggressive pricing. It’s a great fit for entrepreneurs and new website owners looking to get online quickly and affordably. GoDaddy’s strengths lie in its modern, streamlined tools and a clear focus on supporting small businesses, especially in the growing world of eCommerce.
Key features:
- Flexible and modern. GoDaddy offers a choice between Linux and Windows operating systems, providing flexibility for different needs. The user-friendly cPanel/Plesk interface, combined with one-click installers, makes the setup process simple and quick.
- Lower price point and eCommerce focus. GoDaddy frequently offers attractive introductory prices. Its hosting is also tightly integrated with its popular website builder and managed WordPress plans, which are optimized for selling online with features like WooCommerce.
- Robust support. GoDaddy offers 24/7 technical support via phone and chat, which is a significant advantage for users who may need immediate assistance with technical issues.
The verdict
For a small business owner who prioritizes getting a professional-looking site up and running quickly and affordably, GoDaddy is the better choice. Its combination of a user-friendly interface, competitive introductory pricing, and a strong focus on eCommerce makes it highly appealing for new entrepreneurs.
While Network Solutions offers a stable and secure, all-in-one solution, its commitment to professional service is evident; one client who has used their web hosting for ‘about 20 years, maybe longer‘ confirms that their ‘service and support has always been top-flight professional.’
Network Solutions vs. GoDaddy: Website builder
A website builder needs to be beginner-friendly, easy to use, affordable, and must provide an all-in-one solution to get online without a steep learning curve. Both Network Solutions and GoDaddy provide these tools, but they appeal to different types of users.
Network Solutions
Network Solutions’ AI-powered website builder is a standout feature for non-technical users, simplifying the entire creation process. This approach is ideal for businesses that prioritize a seamless, integrated experience and value expert support.
Key features:
- AI-enhanced building. The platform’s AI builder helps beginners by automatically generating designs and suggesting content, which makes it incredibly fast to get a professional-looking site. The included AI Writer assists in creating compelling copy to help those who struggle with content creation.
- Comprehensive toolkit. The builder includes everything you need in one place, from a vast library of free stock images to built-in SEO and marketing tools. Their all-in-one suite removes the need to find and integrate separate services.
- Support for non-technical users. Network Solutions prides itself on its in-product support and a “do-it-for-me” option with its professional services. This focus on assistance is a major plus for anyone who wants help and guidance at every step.
GoDaddy
GoDaddy focuses on simplicity, speed, and affordability. Its builder is designed for new users who want to get online quickly with a polished, modern site. It’s an excellent choice for businesses that want a stylish site and a clear path to eCommerce, often at a lower introductory price.
Key features:
- Quick and easy setup. GoDaddy’s user-friendly, section-based editor is known for its speed. It’s a “set-it-and-forget-it” platform that allows users to launch a professional, mobile-responsive website in minutes.
- Trendy designs and eCommerce focus. GoDaddy offers a wide variety of professionally designed templates that are modern and visually appealing. Its platform has a strong focus on online stores, with an easy setup for selling products and services, making it a powerful tool for new businesses focused on sales.
- Integrated marketing tools. GoDaddy provides a suite of marketing features—like social media integration and SEO tools—that are straightforward to use and directly integrated into the dashboard, helping businesses attract customers from day one.
The verdict
For a small business owner, GoDaddy offers a platform focused on a quick, affordable, and visually appealing website with a clear path to eCommerce. Its design emphasizes user-friendliness, modern design templates, and integrated marketing tools.
Similarly, Network Solutions have worked to improve their platform functionality. One user has noted their “wonderful” new website builder tool, which uses AI to set things up with great suggestions, then easy intuitive editing.
Network Solutions vs. GoDaddy: Templates
Let’s be real. Building a website from scratch is a huge challenge (unless you’re doing it daily). And, for those that want to bring their business online with a website, templates make it easy to get started.
Let’s take a closer look at the template offers from both providers to help you.
Network Solutions
Network Solutions is a champion for a powerful online presence! With their vibrant, high-impact template library that cuts through the noise and gets your small business online fast.
Forget fleeting trends—they offer laser-focused templates on professional clarity. They are clean, business-ready, and designed to instill confidence in your customers from their first click.
The straightforward customization allows for building websites quickly, while giving you total control without ever needing to touch a line of code. Plus, every single design is mobile-responsive, ensuring you look phenomenal and reach your audience on every device.
Key features
- Business-focused templates. Network Solutions provides hundreds of industry-specific templates that are ideal for small businesses like restaurants, consultants, and service providers.
- Mobile-responsive designs. All templates are optimized for mobile devices and automatically adjust to different screen sizes, ensuring a consistent user experience.
- Simplified customization. The editor is block-based and intuitive, making it easy for beginners to add their content and branding. It also includes helpful tools like an AI content writer and a stock photo library.
GoDaddy
GoDaddy is known for a stunning, polished, and powerful website! They deliver a massive, vibrant, and trend-focused template library built for beginners who demand professional results fast.
The designs aren’t just visually appealing, but one user noted; ‘they’re modern, responsive, and flexible, covering a huge range of industries—from fashion to home services and booming eCommerce.’ You get plenty of room for creative expression while keeping the design streamlined for success.
Building is a breeze with their intuitive section-based editor. It’s extremely user-friendly and automatically ensures your site looks flawless on every device. The best part? Integrations click together seamlessly! From powerful SEO tools to robust eCommerce features, everything works in perfect harmony, making your whole online strategy just work.
Key features
- Modern and extensive library. GoDaddy offers hundreds of modern, professional, and visually appealing templates.
- Quick and easy setup. The section-based editor and AI-powered tools like GoDaddy Airo allow beginners to create a functional and stylish website in a short amount of time.
- Integrated marketing and eCommerce. Templates are designed to integrate seamlessly with GoDaddy’s other services, such as eCommerce, SEO, and email marketing, creating a powerful all-in-one ecosystem for entrepreneurs.
The verdict
GoDaddy is a good fit for new business owners who want to get a nice-looking website online fast without much effort. Its builder is very easy to use, and it offers lots of modern, mobile-friendly templates that work well with its built-in store features. The AI tools and pre-set styles are great if you don’t have design experience but still want an attractive, working website quickly.
Network Solutions is aimed at businesses that need a professional, clear look and want templates specific to their field. It offers hundreds of industry-specific templates—for example, for restaurants or consultants—that are designed to look sharp and trustworthy. The editor is block-based and simple, giving you control over the layout without needing to code, and it includes helpful features like an AI writer and a photo library. Like GoDaddy, all its designs work well on phones and tablets.
The best choice depends on what you need most: GoDaddy works best if you value a trendy look and a super-quick setup, while Network Solutions is better if you need a professional, industry-specific design to build customer confidence.
Network Solutions vs. GoDaddy: eCommerce functionalities
Another area you shouldn’t miss is the online store tools that will help you streamline your online selling—eCommerce features.
You wouldn’t want to manually take care of payments, and inventory, right? So, let’s check them here.
Network Solutions
Network Solutions’ eCommerce platform, built for small businesses and solopreneurs, provides a solid, foundational set of tools. You can integrate an online store directly into your website and manage products from within the website builder dashboard.
While its options are adequate for smaller-scale operations, they are less robust and flexible because they focus on straightforward setup rather than deep customization.
- Payment gateways. Network Solutions’ eCommerce service allows you to accept various payment options, including major credit cards, though its direct integrations are less extensive than those of larger platforms. The transaction fees are part of its broader service offering, and specifics need to be verified as part of your plan and payment processor agreement.
- Inventory management. From the eCommerce dashboard, you can track sales, manage low inventory alerts, and handle orders. You can also manage inventory across multiple channels, including Amazon, eBay, and Etsy.
- Product page customization. You can add and edit product details within the editor for professional eCommerce plans. While you can edit page layouts using a block-based editor, the options for designing unique, visually compelling product pages are limited.
- Transaction fees. Network Solutions includes eCommerce tools in its paid plans, but transaction fees from your payment processor are additional.
GoDaddy
GoDaddy provides a full-featured online store that is easy to set up and comes with a more modern and comprehensive set of features. Its Commerce plan integrates directly with its Website + Marketing builder, providing a seamless experience.
Here are its key eCommerce features that might interest you.
- Payment gateways. GoDaddy’s eCommerce platform supports over 40 payment gateways, including major credit cards, PayPal, Apple Pay, and Google Pay. Its proprietary GoDaddy Payments offers some of the industry’s lowest processing fees, and users can be paid as soon as the next business day.
- Inventory management. You can add, track, and manage up to 5,000 products, with up to 10 images per product. The inventory management system syncs automatically across your online store, POS system, and integrated marketplaces like Amazon and eBay.
- Product page customization. GoDaddy offers extensive product page customization options. You can easily add and rearrange sections on the page, add product options like sizes or colors, and upload up to 10 images per product. The GoDaddy Studio tool helps create professional-quality product graphics and marketing materials, too.
- Transaction fees. If you use GoDaddy Payments, the fees are competitive and transparent. Fees for standard eCommerce card transactions are 2.7% + 30¢, and for in-person transactions, they are 2.5% + 0¢ (or lower with a premium plan).
The verdict
For a small shop or a business run by one person that wants things simple and quick to set up, Network Solutions offers an easy way to sell things online. Its basic tools are good if you mostly care about getting sales working and don’t need lots of fancy features or major changes to the design.
However, if you plan to build a larger online store that needs more custom features, better tools, and room to grow, GoDaddy is usually a better fit.
Network Solutions vs. GoDaddy: Marketing capabilities
When building an online presence, a small business owner typically looks for a provider that offers an all-in-one solution that is easy to use and provides access to expert professional services. This allows them to focus on running their business rather than becoming a marketing expert.
Both Network Solutions and GoDaddy offer a suite of professional services, but their approach and the level of support differ significantly.
Network Solutions
Network Solutions is a personalized, expert-led advocate for your digital marketing success. Their marketing offers are designed for businesses that want a hands-on, tailored approach—because they know non-technical users deserve more than automated support.
Their core strength is their team of in-house experts who dive deep into your unique goals. These aren’t just support staff; they’re dedicated partners.
As one happy client puts it: “…my account manager for SEO services is very capable, reliable, timely and also very pleasant to work with. She is really interested in my site and helping to create more traffic and marketing results. She is easy to talk to and does a great job explaining the different steps and expected results.”
Key features:
- Custom web design. Network Solutions provides custom website design services with a direct route to completing a purchase. Their experts work closely with clients to build a visually appealing and mobile-friendly site that is optimized for search engines.
- In-house SEO and PPC. The company offers professional, in-house SEO and PPC services that are tailored to a business’s specific needs. Their experts handle everything from keyword research and content creation to campaign management and ROI tracking.
- Marketplace integration. A key feature for eCommerce businesses is the ability to sell products from a single platform on major marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, Walmart, and Etsy. This simplifies inventory management and expands a business’s reach.
GoDaddy
GoDaddy’s professional services are geared toward ease of use and a fast, streamlined process. Their approach is focused on providing a comprehensive suite of tools and “done-for-you” services that are accessible to a wide range of users, from solo entrepreneurs to larger businesses.
GoDaddy delivers a suite of professional services that are geared toward ease of use and a fast, streamlined process.
They make success online accessible by providing comprehensive tools and “done-for-you” services that rocket launch results for everyone—whether solo entrepreneurs or established businesses.
Additionally, they let you call a person and get the expert help you need, instantly. Their digital marketing products are top-notch, but it’s that personal connection and human support that seals the deal and makes your success certain.
Key features:
- Managed online marketing. GoDaddy’s professional services are designed to boost a business’s online presence with expert help. This includes managed SEO, social media management, and digital advertising services for platforms like Facebook and Instagram.
- Custom web design. GoDaddy offers professional website design services that include a free consultation, a responsive layout, and SEO-friendly content. They provide access to hundreds of modern, professional templates that can be customized to suit the business’s brand.
- Complete online store setup. For eCommerce, GoDaddy provides a full-service setup including product listings, payment processing, inventory management, and built-in tools for tax configuration and sales updates. They also offer marketing features like cart recovery emails and Facebook ad integration to help drive revenue.
The verdict
The choice between the two depends on their need for personalization versus a streamlined, self-service experience. Network Solutions is the better fit for those who want truly personalized, hands-on experience with dedicated, in-house experts handling their web design and marketing from start to finish.
GoDaddy is a better choice for business owners who prioritize a wide variety of tools and “done-for-you” services.
Network Solutions vs. GoDaddy: Website security
While bringing your business online helps your audience reach you faster, it also means you’ll need to deal will cyber threats. Website security is a critical part of an all-in-one solution that builds trust with customers and ensures the site’s reliability.
A business owner needs security that’s both easy to use and effective, without requiring deep technical knowledge. Both Network Solutions and GoDaddy offer security features, but they deliver on these needs differently.
Network Solutions
Network Solutions takes a proactive approach to security, with an emphasis on protecting its users’ websites from online vulnerabilities. Its security offerings are designed to provide peace of mind, which is a key priority for a business with a lean IT team.
As one customer mentions, “I had the pleasure of working with a fantastic Network Solutions advisor who went above and beyond to help me activate SSL… Their expertise in guiding me was invaluable. They were not only technically proficient but also friendly and supportive… Their dedication to ensuring that my website was secure… gave me peace of mind and confidence in the security of my online presence. Thank you for making this experience so positive and stress-free!”
Key services:
- SSL certificates. Network Solutions includes SSL certificates in its plans. An SSL certificate encrypts data, which is crucial for protecting sensitive information like login credentials and payment details.
- Comprehensive protection with SiteLock. Network Solutions partners with SiteLock to provide a robust security solution. SiteLock performs daily scans for malware, helps prevent attacks like SQL injection, and can even patch certain vulnerabilities automatically on higher-tier plans. This proactive, hands-off approach to security is a significant benefit for non-technical users.
- PCI compliance. For eCommerce sites, SiteLock’s tools also help businesses maintain Payment Card Industry (PCI) compliance, an essential requirement for accepting credit card payments securely.
GoDaddy
GoDaddy delivers powerful security features that confidently keep your site safe and sound.
While some of the more advanced protection tools are available as dedicated add-ons—allowing you to build the precise security plan you need—the quality of the defense is undeniable.
You can rest easy knowing that GoDaddy’s proven, top-tier security is always working in the background, helping secure your website’s safety against any threat. In fact, a long-term customer stated: “I’ve been with GoDaddy for eons… There have been hacks and things and they’ve always rescued the site; the security is good too. I know I pay a lot of money but since over 3,000 people have tried to gain access to my site admin in a day, they must be good to keep them at bay.”
Key services:
- Free SSL certificates. GoDaddy includes free SSL certificates with its website builder and hosting plans. This is a crucial, user-friendly feature that secures data transmission and helps a site rank better on Google.
- Integrated security tools. GoDaddy provides basic malware scanning and a web application firewall. Customers can also choose to purchase more advanced website security plans that offer unlimited malware cleanup and DDoS protection.
- Automated daily backups. A major selling point for GoDaddy is its inclusion of automated daily backups with many of its hosting plans. This feature provides a simple, one-click restore option, which is an invaluable recovery tool in case of a security breach or site issue.
The verdict
Network Solutions is generally a better fit for those who value an all-in-one, proactive security suite with a strong emphasis on continuous protection and peace of mind. Its partnership with a reputable security provider like SiteLock simplifies a complex area for non-technical users.
Meanwhile, GoDaddy is a good option for those who prioritize a simple entry point and appreciate the convenience of integrated features like automated daily backups, but they should be aware that comprehensive protection may require an additional investment.
Network Solution vs. GoDaddy: Customer support
When checking out your options, it’s a mistake to not check the feedback about the provider’s customer support. Remember, when you get into a roadblock, it’s good to do business with those that can assist you quickly. Afterall, it’s about your online presence (that needs to be online every time!).
Now, let’s look at the customer support offered by these two brands.
Network Solutions
Based on user feedback from review sites like Trustpilot, G2, and WHTop, Network Solutions’ customer support receives mixed reviews. While some customers report positive experiences, many complain about slow response times, limited availability, and frustrating processes for cancellations.
- Positive feedback. Some users report quick and helpful interactions, especially with technical support agents who provide efficient solutions to specific problems.
- Negative feedback. Other users describe deceptive sales practices, difficulties with cancellations, and long wait times for phone and email support. The lack of a 24/7 live chat option is a common drawback mentioned by users.
GoDaddy
GoDaddy has a mixed reputation for customer support, depending on the platform and user perspective. While GoDaddy’s 24/7 availability and multiple support channels are widely praised, some users express dissatisfaction with specific aspects of the service.
- Positive feedback. Many users praise GoDaddy’s accessible 24/7 support through phone and live chat, describing agents as knowledgeable, professional, and quick to resolve issues. This accessibility is a major advantage for users who need immediate assistance.
- Negative feedback. Some users on platforms like Quora and Reddit report unhelpful or dismissive chat support experiences, aggressive upsell attempts, and unreliable service, particularly with hosting. Complaints about higher renewal costs and inconsistent quality are also prevalent.
The verdict
For users who prioritize immediate, 24/7 access to support through multiple channels, GoDaddy is the better option. The platform’s widespread availability and generally quick response times for technical issues are highly valued by users. However, potential customers should be mindful of mixed reviews regarding the quality of support and potential upsells, particularly concerning hosting services.
For users who are comfortable with more traditional support channels and less robust availability, Network Solutions may be an adequate option, though user feedback indicates a higher risk of experiencing frustrating delays or inefficient resolution processes.
Ultimately, for most small business owners, GoDaddy’s accessible and responsive support system, despite its flaws, is likely to be a more practical and reliable option.
Network Solutions vs. GoDaddy: Pricing
Of course, pricing is a key factor that influences the entire website creation and management experience. It isn’t just about the initial cost; it’s about value, transparency, and long-term affordability.
Here’s a table with the introductory annual pricing to help you compare the entry cost of each platform’s core website builder tiers.
Price category for | Network Solutions | GoDaddy |
---|---|---|
Basic/Informational Website | $1.99 per month | $9.99 per month |
Website with Marketing Tools | $3.99 per month | $16.99 per month |
eCommerce/Online Store | $9.99 per month | $24.99 per month |
Note: Pricing is current at the time of writing but can change without prior notice. Please check with the provider directly for the most up-to-date pricing, as introductory rates typically renew at a significantly higher monthly cost.
Network Solutions and GoDaddy approach pricing with different strategies that appeal to distinct needs.
Network Solutions
Based on user reviews, Network Solutions’ pricing is often described as straightforward for initial purchases but can become complex upon renewal. While it is known for its bundled packages, some reviewers report that sales representatives have a tendency to misrepresent renewal options, potentially leading to customers being signed up for more expensive, unnecessary services.
Additionally, some users have noted that essential services, such as enhanced support or domain forwarding, are offered as separate, costly add-ons, which can increase the overall price.
- Affordable plans. Network Solutions’ pricing starts at a low monthly rate. This makes it an ideal choice for startups and small businesses.
- All-inclusive packages. The company offers comprehensive bundles that include a domain, web hosting, an SSL certificate, and professional email. These packages simplify the process and provide excellent value.
- Transparent pricing. Network Solutions maintains clear, upfront pricing with a focus on simplicity. They make it easier for users to manage their budgets without hidden fees.
GoDaddy
GoDaddy’s pricing strategy is frequently highlighted in user reviews for its low introductory rates and high renewal costs. Many customers note a pattern of steep price increases after the initial term, with hosting and domain fees jumping significantly.
Reviewers also express frustration with the checkout process, where extra services like privacy protection or email are automatically added to the shopping cart without clear notice. This can lead to a final cost that is higher than anticipated, and some users feel they are being charged for features that are often included for free by other providers.
- Variety of tiers. GoDaddy offers a wide range of pricing tiers designed to cater to different needs, from basic plans for simple websites to premium options for more complex sites.
- Initial affordability. The entry-level plans are competitively priced. They are accessible for beginners and new website owners on a tight budget.
- Flexible options. The pricing structure gives a high degree of flexibility that enables users to start small and add features as their business grows.
The verdict
The choice between Network Solutions and GoDaddy depends on preference for pricing structure. Network Solutions is a great fit for those who prefer an all-inclusive package with transparent, upfront costs. On the other hand, GoDaddy is ideal for those who prioritize initial affordability and the flexibility to choose from a variety of plans as their business evolves.
Frequently asked questions
Network Solutions is a good choice for small businesses because it offers a robust suite of user-friendly tools that makes it easier for brands and businesses to get online.
From domain registration, website builders, marketing tools and security solutions, making it an ideal choice for small businesses. And if you’d rather have an expert do it for you, they also provide in-house professional services to launch and grow your online presence.
Yes, Network Solutions offers extensive SEO and PPC services. Their in-house experts develop customized strategies to improve search engine rankings and drive targeted traffic to your website.
Absolutely. Network Solutions’ drag-and-drop website builder allows you to easily customize your website without any coding knowledge. You can move elements, change colors, fonts, and layouts, and add multimedia content.
Network Solutions offers 24/7 customer support via chat. Phone and email support is also available Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 9 PM EST. Their support team is available to assist with any technical issues or questions you may have.
Network Solutions vs. GoDaddy: Which is better?
Choosing between Network Solutions and GoDaddy depends on your business priorities. Both help small businesses build an online presence but take different approaches.
Network Solutions is best for those wanting a stable, all-in-one provider with expert support and bundled packages. It’s a strong choice for non-technical users who prefer a single partner, though some customers note issues with renewal pricing and extra fees.
GoDaddy suits businesses seeking affordability, quick setup, and easy-to-use eCommerce tools. Its AI features make launching a modern site fast and beginner-friendly.
In short: choose Network Solutions if you value stability and professional support; choose GoDaddy if you want low cost, speed, and DIY flexibility.