Key takeaways:
- Your choice of web builders depends on what you value: affordable creative freedom or an all-in-one business solution.
- Wix offers full creative control over DIY website building at affordable, initial, rates.
- Network Solutions bundles multiple services into one platform for long-term value.
Choosing a website builder can feel like choosing between renting a furnished apartment or hiring contractors to build your home. Both Network Solutions and Wix will get you a professional site, but they take different paths to get there.
Wix is designed for the do-it-yourself crowd. You drag, drop, and customize until the site feels like “yours.”
Network Solutions, on the other hand, is for business owners who’d rather focus on running their company. It combines domain registration, hosting, email, security, and an AI website builder into one package.
In this guide, we’ll compare Network Solutions vs. Wix in terms of pricing, features, ease of use, and support. We’ll help you see which option fits your specific needs.
How we developed this comparison
When we researched both brands, we focused on what matters most: cost, ease of use, reliability, long-term value, and–most importantly–what actual customers are saying.
For objectivity, we used two main sources:
- Actual customer feedback from trusted platforms like G2, Trustpilot, Capterra, and Reddit to learn what real users love and complain about.
- Pricing and feature data on each provider’s website, so you can see the true cost of ownership (not just the entry price). We included the extras (like email, hosting, or security) that can add up.
Note: All pricing and features were current at the time of writing and may change. Always check with the provider before availing.
At a glance: Network Solutions vs. Wix
If you’re weighing Network Solutions and Wix, here’s a side-by-side look at the essentials.
| Overview | Network Solutions | Wix |
|---|---|---|
| Key benefits | Domain, hosting, website building, email registration, and live support in one bundle | DIY flexibility with 800+ templates and creative control |
| Domain | Known as a pioneer in the domain industry, advanced DNS tools, free for 1st year | Free for 1st year on annual plans, but with basic tools |
| Hosting | Enterprise-grade, 99.9% uptime, daily backups included | Hosting bundled with plans; scales as you upgrade |
| Website builder | AI-powered quick setup, easy blogging, simple interface | Drag-and-drop design, highly customizable, steeper learning curve |
| Templates | 200+ business-focused, mobile-responsive, conversion-oriented | 800+ creative designs with broad style variety |
| eCommerce | Built-in small business store with secure payment processing | Full online store capabilities with advanced apps |
| Marketing | Built-in SEO features, Google Workspace, and email marketing included | Basic SEO tools and email via app marketplace (may need add-ons) |
| Security | SSL, malware scanning, and DDoS protection included | SSL included, advanced protections often require apps |
| Support | 24/7 phone/chat, comprehensive knowledge base | Chat, help center, limited phone support |
| Starting price | From $1.99/month (first month offer) | Has a free plan; paid plan starts at $17/mo |
Next, we’ll break down each category, so you can see exactly which platform fits your business.
In-depth features comparison of Network Solutions and Wix
We’ll walk through the areas that matter most to small business owners: reliability, ease of use, cost, and the tools that help your online growth. At the end of each section, we’ll give you a clear verdict so you can confidently decide which builder benefits you more.
Key benefits for small business owners
When comparing Network Solutions and Wix, the real question is which one helps you run your business with less stress?
Network Solutions provides bundled services. You manage everything in one place—your domain, hosting, email, website builder, and security—all backed by reliable phone and chat support. For business owners, this all-in-one setup can help you focus on your business goals instead of site management.
Wix shines if you’re looking for a budget-friendly, do-it-yourself (DIY) approach. Its drag-and-drop builder gives you freedom to design your site however you want; with 800+ templates, you’ll find a style that matches your brand. However, adding advanced features may require extra apps and costs.
Verdict: If you’re a startup or side hustle looking for low-cost creative control, Wix can be a great fit. But if you’re an established small business looking for reliability and authentic human support, Network Solutions is the smarter long-term choice.
Domain registration
Your domain name reflects your online identity. That’s why it’s worth comparing how Network Solutions and Wix handle domain registration.
Network Solutions has been a leader in domain registration for more than 40 years now. We were established in 1979 and are the world’s first domain registrar. That traces back to the early days of the Internet. Every paid plan includes a free custom domain for the first year, plus advanced management tools like DNS settings, domain forwarding, and automatic renewals. You also get domain privacy protection included, which helps keep your personal information safe.
Wix also offers a free domain for the first year on annual plans, but its tools are more basic. While it covers the essentials, advanced options like DNS management aren’t as robust. Domain privacy may also come with extra steps or costs depending on your plan.
Verdict: When it comes to domain registration, Network Solutions is the stronger choice. It suits small businesses that need reliable, professional services for their online brand.
Hosting
Both brands also offer hosting services. Here’s how they compare:
Network Solutions provides high-quality, reliable hosting. With a 99.9% uptime guarantee and daily backups. The platform also automates site management, so you don’t have to think about servers or maintenance.
Wix bundles hosting with all of its plans, making it simple for beginners. For most small business sites, shared hosting is enough. However, it has a less robust infrastructure, and larger businesses may encounter performance limitations as traffic grows.
Verdict: If you’re building a personal project or a small DIY site, Wix’s hosting will do the job. But for small businesses that depend on uptime and stability, Network Solutions offers more reliable and robust features.
Website builder
The website builder is where you’ll spend most of your time creating and updating your site, so ease of use is non-negotiable. When comparing these two website-building platforms, here’s what stands out:
Network Solutions provides users with a fast and user-friendly platform. Its AI-powered setup wizard poses business-related queries to generate a personalized starting point. It also allows users to drag content elements and edit them with ease. This means that publishing a professional website only takes hours, rather than days.
Wix offers a more flexible, design-focused builder. Its drag-and-drop editor lets you customize nearly every detail, which is great for creative users. However, this level of freedom comes with a steeper learning curve. If you want to tweak every element, it’s powerful. If you want speed and simplicity, it can feel overwhelming.
Verdict: Network Solutions’ website builder is best if you value quick setup and direct management. If you want maximum creative control and don’t mind investing more time learning a new platform, Wix will suit you.
Templates
Your website’s look and feel often starts with the template you choose. Here’s how the two brands’ libraries stack up:
Network Solutions offers 200+ professionally designed templates tailored for small business use. These designs are mobile-responsive, easy to customize, and built with conversions in mind.
Wix has an even larger library of 800+ templates across a wide range of styles. From creative portfolios to trendy restaurant sites, there’s something for almost every niche. The trade-off is that not every design is optimized for business growth, and the variety can feel overwhelming for a quick start.
Verdict: If you want sleek, business-ready designs for faster site launch, Network Solutions delivers a focused set of conversion-friendly templates. But if you want more variety, Wix has a broader catalog.
eCommerce
If you’re planning to sell online, you need reliable eCommerce functionalities. Let’s see how the two brands compare:
Network Solutions includes built-in eCommerce tools designed for small businesses, such as payments through trusted gateways and inventory management. It’s straightforward and secure for a more confident online selling experience.
Wix offers more advanced eCommerce functionality through its Business and eCommerce plans, like abandoned cart recovery and advanced analytics for a full online store. However, many of these features require higher-tier plans or add-ons, which can increase costs over time.
Verdict: If you need a simple, reliable online store to support your small business, Network Solutions has everything you need built in. If you’re aiming for a larger-scale online shop with advanced online marketing tools, Wix offers more, but you may need to budget for extra apps and upgrades.
Marketing capabilities
A great website is only as effective as its discoverability. That’s why marketing tools are just as important as design when comparing the two builders.
Network Solutions provides integrated marketing essentials right out of the box. You’ll find SEO tools to help your site rank, email marketing features to stay in touch with customers, and seamless Google Workspace integration for professional email.
Wix offers strong SEO features and an app marketplace filled with marketing add-ons. You can connect social media, run email marketing campaigns, and expand with third-party integrations.
Verdict: If you want a streamlined, all-in-one approach, Network Solutions makes marketing simpler and more integrated. Wix is a good option if you prefer to customize your marketing stack with apps and don’t mind managing multiple tools.
Security
For small businesses, online security enhances your reputation and protects your customers. Regarding security, here’s how the two brands compare:
Network Solutions offers enterprise-grade security as part of its core offering. Every plan includes SSL certificates, daily malware scans, automatic security updates, and DDoS protection. These tools work quietly in the background, so you don’t have to worry about technical details.
Wix also provides SSL certificates on all plans. However, more advanced protections, like enhanced backups or malware monitoring, often require extra apps or higher-tier plans.
Verdict: Network Solutions delivers stronger security right out of the box, making it the safer choice for small businesses. Wix covers the basics but may require you to piece together extra layers of defense.
Customer support
When you run into a site issue, you want answers fast. That’s why support is important when comparing web builders.
Network Solutions offers customer support through phone and 24/7 live chat, with specialists in domains, hosting, and website issues. It also features a comprehensive knowledge base to help you find solutions.
Wix provides support mainly through its help center, chat, and community forums. Phone support is limited, and many users rely on articles or tickets for solutions.
Verdict: Network Solutions is the stronger choice for customer support, giving small business owners the reassurance of round-the-clock help. Wix is fine for self-starters who are comfortable troubleshooting.
Pricing and plan inclusion
Pricing for web builders often looks simple at first glance, but their true cost depends on what’s included. Here’s how Network Solutions and Wix compare:
Network Solutions
| Plan | Pricing | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|
| Website Plan | $1.99/mo (renews at $16.99/mo) | ✔ AI-powered Website Builder ✔ Domain and Domain Privacy (1 year free) ✔ Professional Email (3 months free) ✔ SSL Certificate (1 month free) ✔ 1-hour expert design support ✔ Logo Builder and design studio |
| Website + Marketing Plan | $3.99/mo (renews at $21.99/mo) | ✔ AI-powered Website Builder ✔ Domain and Domain Privacy (1 year free) ✔ Professional Email (3 months free) ✔ SSL Certificate (1 month free) ✔ 1-hour expert design support ✔ Logo Builder and design studio ✔ Sell services ✔ Appointment scheduling ✔ Social media and email marketing ✔ Google My Business listing |
| Advanced / eCommerce | $9.99/mo (renews at $29.99/mo) | ✔ AI-powered Website Builder ✔ Domain and Domain Privacy (1 year free) ✔ Professional Email (3 months free) ✔ SSL Certificate (1 month free) ✔ 1-hour expert design support ✔ Logo Builder and design studio ✔ Sell services ✔ Appointment scheduling ✔ Social media and email marketing ✔ Google My Business listing ✔ Secure checkout on your domain ✔ Sell on Facebook, Instagram, Amazon, eBay & more |
Wix
| Plan | Pricing | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|
| Free | $0 | ✔ Drag-and-drop editor ✔ Access to templates ✔ Free hosting with a Wix-branded subdomain |
| Light | $17/mo | ✔ Free domain for 1 year ✔ 2 GB storage space ✔ Multi-cloud hosting ✔ Light marketing suite ✔ 2 site collaborators |
| Core | $29/mo | ✔ Free domain for 1 year ✔ 50 GB storage space ✔ Multi-cloud hosting ✔ Basic marketing suite ✔ Accept payments ✔ Basic eCommerce ✔ Scheduling and services ✔ 5 site collaborators |
| Business | $39/mo | ✔ Free domain for 1 year ✔ 100 GB storage space ✔ Multi-cloud hosting ✔ Standard marketing suite ✔ Accept payments ✔ Standard eCommerce ✔ Scheduling and services ✔ 10 site collaborators |
| Business Elite | $159/mo | ✔ Free domain for 1 year ✔ Unlimited storage space ✔ Multi-cloud hosting ✔ Advanced marketing suite ✔ Accept payments ✔ Advanced eCommerce ✔ Scheduling and services ✔ Advanced developer platform ✔ 100 site collaborators |
Verdict: Wix can look cheaper at first, especially if you’re just testing ideas. But when you add up the real needs of a small business—email, hosting, and security—Network Solutions’ bundled plans usually deliver more long-term value.
What users are saying
When deciding between brands, it helps to look at real user experiences. We reviewed customer feedback from platforms like Trustpilot, G2, and Reddit to understand the most common praises and complaints.
Network Solutions users often highlight the ease of setup, modern templates, and having everything bundled in one place. According to a certain user, “price point is great”, and they never had any issues with the platform.
Many small business owners appreciate having 24/7 support, though some note that response times can be inconsistent. A recurring concern is hidden fees, which some users feel make pricing less transparent.
Wix customers praise the brand for its comprehensive template library and reliable uptime. One customer also described his web building journey with the platform, saying “the experience using Wix to create my website was fantastic”.
However, many users also report frustrations with paywalls, older templates, and limited customization flexibility. They often describe the platform’s support system as slow or unhelpful, especially for complex issues.
Verdict: Reviews suggest that business owners, especially those who value bundle services and reliability, tend to favor Network Solutions over Wix. On the other hand, Wix appeals to those looking for upfront affordability and design flexibility.
Frequently asked questions
It depends on your goals. Wix is great for DIY users who want lots of creative control. Network Solutions is better if you want an all-in-one solution bundled together for long-term value.
Wix has a free plan with ads, but most businesses need a paid plan starting at around $17/month. Business and eCommerce plans can range from $29 to $159 per month, and extra apps may add to the cost.
Wix can be affordable at first, but costs can add up as you add apps or higher-tier features.
Yes, Wix includes hosting with all plans and a free domain for the first year (annual plans only).
Network Solutions is built for small business owners who want reliability and simplicity. You get everything you need in one place, plus reliable customer support, so you don’t have to manage multiple providers.
Choose Network Solutions if you want bundled business tools and reliable support. It’s ideal for established small businesses that don’t want to spend time piecing together separate services.
Network Solutions’ website builder uses AI to help you set up quickly; it includes drag-and-drop editing and blogging tools. It’s designed to get a professional site live in hours, even if you’re not tech-savvy.
Final thoughts: Which web builder is right for you?
When it comes to Network Solutions and Wix, the right choice depends on your priorities as a business owner. Both platforms can help you build a professional website, but they take very different approaches.
Choose Network Solutions if:
- You want the essentials—domain, hosting, email, security, and support—bundled and managed in one place.
- You prefer an AI-powered website builder that gets you online fast without technical hurdles.
- Reliable customer support and long-term business stability matter more to you than lower upfront price.
Choose Wix if:
- You want low-cost entry and full creative control over your website’s design.
- You’re comfortable paying for apps to extend functionality and managing multiple tools.
- You don’t mind limited live support as long as you get flexibility in layouts and customization.
Bottom line: Wix is a good option if you’re starting small and want DIY design freedom. But if you’re serious about long-term growth and peace of mind, Network Solutions offers the stronger, more reliable foundation for your business website.
With Network Solutions’ AI Website Builder and bundled business tools, you can launch a professional site quickly on a platform designed for small business success.
