The main aim of this article is to provide you with a comprehensive checklist to help you choose a hosting provider and configure the virtual dedicated VPS or VDS server that you have rented.

Selecting a Host Provider



▍Reputation and Reviews

When going through reviews on different websites (a simple search for "[provider name] reviews" will provide many options), pay attention to the responses of the hosting provider itself in addition to the complaints of dissatisfied customers. Keep in mind that competitors are always active.

The reputation of the provider will be evident from the experiences shared by its clients. Check which companies are already clients of the hosting provider and draw your conclusions. Additionally, independent server tests conducted periodically by reputable IT websites will be more objective than private "experts" on their blogs.

▍Distributed Network

Focus on the number of data centers with which the hosting provider collaborates as well as the levels of those centers. The quality, stability, and security of the servers hosted in them are important.

There are two reasons for this:

    The nearer the server, the faster the project will load. So, it's wise to rent capacities that are not too distant from your target audience or your location.
   
    Computing complexes for large and quickly expanding projects should be far apart from each other to ensure continued operation in the event of natural or man-made disasters. A resource allocation plan enables the hosting provider to guarantee its client's disaster recovery of their projects, timely and efficient backups, automatic transfer of services and sites, data replication, and other actions in line with their disaster recovery plan.

Support

The hosting provider's technical support staff's speed and worthiness of responses may prove decisive in situations such as an online store site's downtime on Black Friday or interruptions in access to a popular website. The average ticket response time should not exceed 15-20 minutes in normal conditions. Of course, providers will face various situations but a delay in response should be accompanied by an adequate explanation for that delay.

▍Resource Payment Option

The "for resources" tariff takes into account the server's actual load during the day. This option works well for large projects/companies that may require significant server capacities only at peak times. Computing resources are continually available and automatically connected; rent is debited only when used, and not for reservation. For more information, click here.

However, a monthly billing plan - a fixed-price server tariff per month - has its advantages as it allows you to control your monthly expenses 100% while receiving a virtual server of the chosen configuration guaranteed in terms of resources. A free trial period is usually provided with this plan.

▍Money-Back Guarantee

First, it is beneficial to have a free trial period. It may not be available in all configurations, but it will enable you to understand whether the hosting provider is suitable for you with limited options. Secondly, returning your money if you did not like the hosting, but had already paid for it. This is called a money-back guarantee.

I am currently selecting a hosting server, and I am not well-versed in terms like gigahertz, cores, and threads. To me, they are all just different colored parrots, and other hosting websites offer the same parrots in those colors. However, a new concept has been introduced, and it has not been defined - what is an operation?

Since it has not been defined, I can imagine that it refers to opening a page on a client's browser, for example. The problem is that other hosting providers do not have parrots of this color. So, what should I do about these unfamiliar parrots?

Thank you so much for such valuable information! At the moment I am in search of a good VPS Hosting, but since I am a beginner, it is very difficult to choose what you need. I've read a lot of useful things here. This article helped determine the choice.

There are interesting points here.
1. Server bandwidth - in my opinion, no one ever (almost) asks the provider such a question.
2. Operating system used - "not every OS can be supported by hosting servers". Well, of course, but if the user is so "advanced" that he can install the software on his own, then he will clarify this point at the very beginning .
3. Choice of CPU - "a frequency of 3.4 GHz means that the processor is capable of processing 3 billion 400 million operations per second" - this is not entirely true, since most operations require more than one processor cycle to execute.

The convenience of working with a web provider is crucial. While reading reviews online can be helpful, personal experience during the trial period, as well as the interaction before renting a server, are the best indicators of satisfaction. If there are any doubts, it is advisable to choose providers that offer a free trial period or a preferential refund during the first month of use.

Additionally, providers often offer control panels, sometimes with multiple options to choose from. It is essential to clarify whether they are paid or free and whether they provide a mobile app for server management. Although the choice of a VPS server is based on several criteria, added comfort can be a significant advantage of the hosting provider.

Other important factors to consider when selecting a VPS server include the physical location of data centers, the availability and quality of technical support, and the possibility of increasing resource consumption or switching to a different tariff plan. If your team is small or you lack technical expertise, consider choosing a VPS with a management service provided by the provider. This way, the provider will handle server set-up and servicing, while you focus on developing your website or applications.

VPS hosting, also known as Virtual Private Server hosting, is a type of hosting service that provides you with your own virtual server within a larger physical server. It offers a balance between shared hosting, where multiple websites share the same server resources, and dedicated hosting, where you have an entire server to yourself.

When choosing a VPS hosting provider, there are several factors you should consider:

1. Performance: Look for a hosting provider that offers reliable and fast hardware, as well as ample resources like RAM, CPU, and storage. This ensures that your website will run smoothly and handle traffic effectively.

2. Scalability: A good VPS hosting provider should offer scalability, allowing you to easily upgrade or downgrade your server resources based on your needs. This flexibility is crucial as your website grows and requires more resources.

3. Reliability: Check for a hosting provider that guarantees a high uptime percentage, preferably 99.9% or higher. A reliable hosting infrastructure is important to ensure that your website is accessible to visitors at all times.

4. Support: Look for a hosting provider that offers 24/7 customer support. This is essential in case you encounter any technical issues or need assistance with server management.

5. Security: Ensure that the hosting provider has robust security measures in place, including firewalls, regular backups, and DDoS protection. This helps protect your website from potential threats and data loss.

6. Control Panel: Consider the ease of use of the control panel provided by the hosting provider. A user-friendly control panel makes it easier to manage your server, install applications, and configure settings.

7. Pricing: Compare the pricing plans offered by different VPS hosting providers. Make sure to understand the features included in each plan and choose one that fits your budget while meeting your requirements.

8. Reviews and Reputation: Read reviews and seek recommendations from other users to gauge the reputation and quality of the hosting provider. This can give you insights into their track record and customer satisfaction.

9. Location: Consider the geographical location of the hosting provider's data centers. Choosing a server location that is closer to your target audience can help improve website loading speed and performance for visitors in that region.

10. Bandwidth and Data Transfer: Check the bandwidth limits and data transfer policies of the hosting provider. Ensure that they offer enough bandwidth to handle your website's traffic and data requirements without any additional charges or limitations.

11. Operating System Options: Determine if the hosting provider offers a choice of operating systems, such as Linux or Windows. Choose an OS that is compatible with the applications and software you plan to use on your server.

12. Managed vs. Unmanaged: Decide whether you want a managed or unmanaged VPS hosting service. With managed hosting, the provider takes care of server maintenance, updates, and security, whereas with unmanaged hosting, you are responsible for managing your server.

13. Backup and Disaster Recovery: Inquire about the backup protocols and disaster recovery options provided by the hosting provider. Regular backups and the ability to quickly restore data are crucial in case of any unforeseen events or data loss.

14. Additional Services: Consider any additional services offered by the hosting provider, such as SSL certificates, domain registration, email hosting, or CDN integration. These services can simplify the management of your website and enhance its functionality.

15. Terms of Service and Support Agreement: Carefully review the terms of service and support agreement provided by the hosting provider. Ensure that you understand their policies regarding refunds, upgrades, and cancellation, as well as their response time for support requests.

16. Customization Options: Check if the hosting provider allows you to customize your VPS environment. You may want to install specific software or configure server settings according to your needs, so having the flexibility to customize is important.

17. Performance Optimization: Inquire about the hosting provider's optimization techniques for improving server performance. This can include caching mechanisms, content delivery networks (CDNs), and other tools that help enhance website speed and responsiveness.

18. Server Management: Determine whether you prefer a hosting provider that offers fully managed, partially managed, or self-managed VPS hosting. Fully managed services handle all server management tasks, while partially managed services provide assistance with specific aspects. Self-managed services require you to handle all server management responsibilities.

19. Reputation and Customer Feedback: Research the reputation and customer feedback of the hosting provider. Look for reviews, testimonials, and ratings from current or past customers to get insights into their overall satisfaction and experiences.

20. Growth Potential: Consider whether the hosting provider offers room for growth. As your website expands and attracts more visitors, you may need additional resources or higher-tier plans. Ensuring scalability and growth options with the hosting provider can save you the hassle of migrating to a new host in the future.

21. Service Level Agreement (SLA): Review the hosting provider's SLA, which outlines the uptime guarantees and compensation policies if they fail to meet those guarantees. A solid SLA demonstrates the provider's commitment to maintaining high server availability.

22. Migration Assistance: If you already have a website hosted elsewhere, check if the hosting provider offers migration assistance. Some providers offer free migration services, making it easier to move your website to their VPS environment without downtime or complications.

23. Trial Period or Money-Back Guarantee: Consider whether the hosting provider offers a trial period or money-back guarantee. This allows you to test their services and evaluate their performance before committing to a long-term plan.

24. Technical Support: Evaluate the quality and availability of technical support provided by the hosting provider. Look for options like live chat, phone support, or ticketing systems. Prompt and knowledgeable support can help resolve any issues or concerns efficiently.

25. Community and Documentation: Check if the hosting provider has an active user community or forum where you can find help, tips, and resources. Additionally, look for comprehensive documentation and guides that can assist you in setting up and managing your VPS environment.

26. Network Connectivity: Examine the hosting provider's network infrastructure and connectivity. Quality providers often have redundant network connections, ensuring reliable and fast connectivity to your server.

27. IP Address: Determine if the hosting provider offers dedicated IP addresses for your VPS. Having a dedicated IP address can be useful for certain applications, such as SSL certificates or email reputation management.

28. Data Privacy and Security: Ensure that the hosting provider has appropriate security measures in place to protect your data and server. This may include features like firewalls, intrusion detection systems, or secure data center facilities.

29. Backup Options: Inquire about the backup options provided by the hosting provider. Regular backups, preferably with automated scheduling, can help protect your data in case of accidental loss or system failures.

30. Fair Usage Policy: Review the hosting provider's fair usage policy, especially if they mention specific limitations on server resources or bandwidth usage. Make sure it aligns with your website's needs and projected growth.

31. Reputation and Experience: Consider the hosting provider's reputation and experience in the industry. Established providers with a track record of reliability and customer satisfaction are generally a safer choice.

32. Environmental Friendliness: If environmental sustainability is important to you, check if the hosting provider has eco-friendly practices or uses renewable energy to power their data centers.

33. Privacy and Security: Ensure that the hosting provider has robust security measures in place. This includes features like firewalls, DDoS protection, SSL certificates, and regular security updates to protect your website and data from cyber threats.

34. Server Monitoring: Check if the hosting provider offers server monitoring services. Automated monitoring can help detect and resolve any server issues or performance bottlenecks before they impact your website.

35. Upgradability: Consider the ease and flexibility of upgrading your VPS plan as your website grows. A hosting provider that allows seamless upgrades to higher-tier plans ensures that your server resources can scale with your business needs.

36. Add-Ons and Extra Features: Take note of any additional features or add-ons provided by the hosting provider. These can include tools for website optimization, security enhancements, content delivery networks (CDNs), or website builders that can add value to your hosting package.

37. Energy Efficiency and Eco-Friendly Initiatives: If environmental sustainability is important to you, check if the hosting provider follows energy-efficient practices or has eco-friendly initiatives. Some hosting providers prioritize renewable energy and carbon offsetting in their operations.

38. Terms of Service and Acceptable Usage Policy: Carefully review the hosting provider's terms of service and acceptable usage policy. Ensure that you are comfortable with their policies regarding content restrictions, resource utilization, and any limitations that may affect your website's performance.

39. Scalability and Flexibility: Determine if the hosting provider offers the option to easily scale up or down your server resources based on your needs. This scalability allows you to efficiently manage costs and ensures optimal performance as your website requirements change.

40. Ease of Migration: If you already have a website hosted elsewhere, inquire about the migration process and support offered by the hosting provider. A seamless migration process can save time and effort in transitioning your website to the new VPS hosting environment.

41. Network Speed and Latency: Check the network speed and latency of the hosting provider's data centers. A fast and low-latency network connection ensures that your website can deliver content quickly to visitors and provide a smooth user experience.

42. SLA and Downtime Compensation: Review the hosting provider's Service Level Agreement (SLA) and their policy for compensating customers in case of excessive downtime. A strong SLA with appropriate compensation shows the hosting provider's commitment to maintaining high uptime and minimizing disruptions.

43. Control Panel Options: Determine if the hosting provider offers a user-friendly control panel for managing your VPS. Popular control panels like cPanel or Plesk make it easier to manage your server, install applications, and perform administrative tasks.

44. Developer-Friendly Environment: If you are a developer, check if the hosting provider offers features and tools that cater to your needs. This may include support for various programming languages, access to development tools, and compatibility with popular frameworks or CMS platforms.

45. Geo-Redundancy: Consider if the hosting provider offers geo-redundancy, which means they have multiple data centers in different geographic locations. Geo-redundancy helps ensure high availability and mitigates the risk of downtime in case of natural disasters or network failures in one region.

46. IPv4 and IPv6 Support: Inquire about the hosting provider's support for both IPv4 and IPv6 protocols. This ensures that your website can be accessed by visitors using either protocol and future-proofs your hosting solution.

47. Community and Resources: Look for a hosting provider that has an active community and resources available, such as forums, knowledge bases, tutorials, and documentation. These resources can be valuable in troubleshooting issues and finding solutions to common problems.

48. Data Privacy and Compliance: If your website deals with sensitive data or requires compliance with certain regulations (e.g., GDPR), ensure that the hosting provider has appropriate measures in place to protect data privacy and comply with relevant regulations.

49. Reputation for Customer Support: Research the hosting provider's reputation for customer support. Prompt and knowledgeable support can make a significant difference in resolving issues quickly and efficiently.

50. Long-Term Growth and Stability: Consider the hosting provider's long-term growth and stability. Look for established providers with a strong financial standing and a track record of consistently meeting customer demands and expanding their infrastructure.

51. Customer Reviews and Testimonials: Read customer reviews and testimonials about the hosting provider to get insights into the experiences of other users. This can help you gauge the quality of their services, support, and overall satisfaction levels.

52. Customization and Software Support: Check if the hosting provider allows for custom configurations and supports the software and applications you plan to use on your VPS. This ensures compatibility and flexibility in setting up your desired environment.

53. Server Location Options: If you have a specific target audience or require data sovereignty, consider a hosting provider that offers multiple server locations. This allows you to choose a location that is closer to your target audience, reducing latency and improving website performance.

54. Backup and Restore Options: Inquire about the backup and restore options provided by the hosting provider. Regular backups are essential for protecting your website's data, and having easy access to restore points can save you from potential data loss or mistakes.

55. E-commerce Capabilities: If you plan to run an e-commerce website, check if the hosting provider offers specialized features and support for e-commerce platforms such as secure payment gateways, SSL certificates, and shopping cart integration.

56. Technical Expertise and Support: Assess the technical expertise and support provided by the hosting provider. Determine if they have knowledgeable staff available to assist you with server-related issues, troubleshooting, and performance optimization.

57. Server Performance Monitoring: Inquire about the hosting provider's server performance monitoring tools. Real-time monitoring allows you to track resource usage, identify performance bottlenecks, and take proactive steps to optimize your VPS.

58. Money-Back Guarantee: Check if the hosting provider offers a money-back guarantee or trial period. This gives you the opportunity to test their services and evaluate their performance without committing to a long-term contract.

59. Additional Services and Features: Consider any additional services and features offered by the hosting provider, such as managed backups, content delivery networks (CDNs), SSL certificates, or staging environments. These can enhance your overall hosting experience.

60. Reputation for Uptime: Research the hosting provider's reputation for uptime. Look for information on their past and current uptime performance to ensure that they can provide a high level of server availability for your website.

61. Load Balancing: Check if the hosting provider offers load balancing capabilities. Load balancing distributes traffic across multiple servers to ensure optimal performance and scalability, especially during peak usage periods.

62. Server Management Tools: Inquire about the server management tools and interfaces provided by the hosting provider. A user-friendly control panel or dashboard can make it easier to manage your VPS, monitor resource usage, and perform administrative tasks.

63. SLA Response Time: Review the hosting provider's Service Level Agreement (SLA) regarding their response time for support requests. A shorter response time ensures that you can get quick assistance in case of any issues or emergencies.

64. IPv4 and IPv6 Support: Confirm if the hosting provider supports both IPv4 and IPv6 protocols. IPv6 support is essential to accommodate the growing number of internet-connected devices that rely on IPv6 addresses.

65. High Availability: Inquire about the hosting provider's high availability infrastructure. This includes features like redundant hardware, failover mechanisms, and automatic backup systems that minimize downtime and ensure uninterrupted service.

66. Scalability Options: Determine if the hosting provider offers flexible scalability options. This could include the ability to add or remove resources as needed, such as CPU cores, RAM, or storage, without the need for manual server migration or downtime.

67. Industry-Specific Requirements: If your website has specific industry requirements, such as compliance with HIPAA regulations for healthcare data or PCI DSS for online payments, ensure that the hosting provider can meet those requirements and provide the necessary security measures.

68. CDN Integration: Check if the hosting provider offers integration with a Content Delivery Network (CDN). A CDN can improve website performance by caching content on servers located closer to your visitors, reducing latency and improving page load times.

69. Data Center Certifications: Look for hosting providers that have data centers certified for industry standards such as ISO 27001 (information security management) or SSAE 18 (service organization control report). These certifications demonstrate their commitment to security and data protection.

70. Server Hardware: Inquire about the hardware specifications of the VPS servers. Look for hosting providers that use reliable, high-performance hardware from reputable brands to ensure optimal server performance.

71. Data Center Facilities: Evaluate the quality and security of the hosting provider's data center facilities. Look for features such as redundant power supplies, cooling systems, physical security measures, and strict access controls to ensure the safety and reliability of your server.

72. Network Uplinks: Check the number and speed of network uplinks that the hosting provider offers. Multiple uplinks with high-speed connections ensure optimal network performance and redundancy, minimizing the risk of network outages.

73. Backup and Disaster Recovery Plans: Inquire about the hosting provider's backup frequency, retention periods, and disaster recovery plans. Regular backups and well-defined recovery processes are crucial in protecting your website's data and ensuring business continuity in case of unforeseen events.

74. Database Support: If you require a specific database management system (DBMS), make sure the hosting provider supports it. Popular DBMS options include MySQL, PostgreSQL, and Microsoft SQL Server.

75. Server Resource Usage Policies: Understand the hosting provider's policies regarding server resource usage. Excessive resource usage by other VPS instances on the same physical server can potentially impact the performance of your website. Check if the provider has measures in place to prevent resource abuse.

76. Scalability Limits: Determine the scalability limits imposed by the hosting provider. This includes factors such as maximum CPU cores, RAM capacity, storage space, or bandwidth, ensuring that you have room to grow without facing limitations.

77. Transparency and Communication: Assess the hosting provider's transparency and communication practices. A provider that is open about issues, maintenance schedules, and communicates proactively with customers demonstrates a commitment to keeping you informed about important updates and changes.

78. Testimonials and Case Studies: Look for testimonials and case studies from existing customers to get insights into how the hosting provider has helped their businesses. This can give you an indication of the provider's ability to meet specific needs and deliver reliable services.

79. Refund Policy: Check the hosting provider's refund policy. Understand the terms and conditions for cancellations or early terminations, including any applicable fees or refund amounts.

80. Contract Length and Flexibility: Consider the contract lengths offered by the hosting provider. Some providers offer monthly plans, while others may require longer-term commitments. Assess your flexibility requirements and choose a plan that aligns with your preferences.

81. Transparent Pricing: Ensure that the hosting provider has transparent pricing with no hidden fees or unexpected charges. Understand the billing structure, renewal rates, and any additional costs for add-ons or upgrades.

82. User Reviews and Recommendations: Look for user reviews and recommendations from reputable sources to gain insights into the experiences of other customers. This can help you gauge the reliability, performance, and overall satisfaction with the hosting provider.

83. Server Customization: Check if the hosting provider allows for server customization, such as the ability to install custom software or modify server configurations. This is important for advanced users or businesses with specific technical requirements.

84. Customer-to-Server Ratio: Inquire about the customer-to-server ratio maintained by the hosting provider. A lower ratio means fewer users sharing server resources, leading to better performance and stability for your website.

85. Environmentally Friendly Practices: If environmental sustainability is important to you, consider hosting providers that have implemented eco-friendly practices. This can include using energy-efficient hardware, employing renewable energy sources, or participating in carbon offset programs.

86. Reputation for Data Protection: Research the hosting provider's reputation for data protection and privacy. Look for security certifications, compliance with data protection regulations, and transparent policies regarding data handling and access.

87. Testimonials from Similar Businesses: Seek testimonials from businesses similar to yours in terms of size, industry, or technical requirements. Their experiences can provide valuable insights into how well the hosting provider caters to your specific needs.

88. 24/7 Technical Support: Check if the hosting provider offers 24/7 technical support, including weekends and holidays. Having access to round-the-clock support ensures that you can quickly resolve any issues that may arise, regardless of the time.

89. Company Stability and Growth: Consider the stability and growth trajectory of the hosting provider. Look for providers that have been in the industry for a significant period and demonstrate consistent growth, as this indicates financial stability and a commitment to long-term service.

90. Scalable Storage Options: Determine if the hosting provider offers scalable storage options, such as the ability to easily increase storage capacity as your website grows. This ensures that you can accommodate expanding content, databases, and user data without limitations.

91. Hosting Provider Reputation: Research the reputation of the hosting provider in terms of their reliability, customer support, and overall service quality. Look for independent reviews and ratings from trusted sources to gain insights into their track record.

92. Data Center Redundancy: Inquire about the data center redundancy measures implemented by the hosting provider. Redundant power supplies, network connections, and cooling systems help ensure uninterrupted operation even in the event of hardware or connectivity failures.

93. Monitoring and Analytics Tools: Check if the hosting provider offers monitoring and analytics tools that allow you to track server performance, resource usage, and website metrics. These tools can help you optimize your website's performance and make informed decisions about resource allocation.

94. BGP Routing: Ask if the hosting provider uses Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) routing. BGP routing ensures efficient routing of internet traffic between different networks, enhancing redundancy and improving network stability.

95. Server Hardware Upgrades: Determine if the hosting provider regularly upgrades their server hardware to keep up with technological advancements. Upgrading hardware ensures better performance, reliability, and security for your VPS.

96. Managed Database Services: If you use databases, check if the hosting provider offers managed database services. This can include features like automatic backups, database optimization, and assistance with performance tuning.

97. Migration Support: Inquire about the level of migration support provided by the hosting provider. They should offer guidance and assistance in migrating your existing website or applications to their VPS platform without any significant downtime or data loss.

98. Transparent Terms and Agreements: Carefully review the hosting provider's terms of service, acceptable usage policy, and privacy policy. Ensure that they are transparent, easy to understand, and align with your requirements and expectations.

99. Remote Desktop Access: Verify if the hosting provider allows remote desktop access to your VPS. This feature provides direct access to your server's desktop environment, enabling more advanced server management and troubleshooting capabilities.

100. Support for Multiple Domains: If you have multiple websites or plan to host multiple domains on your VPS, confirm that the hosting provider supports the number of domains you require. Check if there are any restrictions or additional charges for hosting multiple domains.

101. Reputation for Speed and Performance: Research the hosting provider's reputation for server speed and performance. Look for information on their network infrastructure, hardware specifications, and technologies used to optimize website loading times.

102. Money-Back Guarantee and SLA Credits: Check if the hosting provider offers a money-back guarantee or SLA credits in case of prolonged downtime or performance issues. This ensures that they are accountable for maintaining high standards of service.

103. Developer Tools and Support: If you're a developer, inquire about the availability of developer tools and support from the hosting provider. This may include features like SSH access, Git integration, staging environments, and support for various programming languages and frameworks.

104. Server Snapshot or Cloning: Determine if the hosting provider offers server snapshot or cloning functionality. This enables you to create copies of your server configuration and settings, making it easier to set up new servers or revert to a previous state if needed.

105. CDN Integration and Performance Optimization: Check if the hosting provider offers integration with Content Delivery Networks (CDNs) or has built-in performance optimization tools. CDNs can help distribute your website's content globally, improving loading speeds for visitors from different regions.

106. Availability of Managed Services: Consider if the hosting provider offers managed services, such as server administration, security monitoring, and software updates. Managed services can offload technical tasks from your team and ensure optimal server performance.

107. API Access and Automation: Verify if the hosting provider offers API access, allowing you to automate server management tasks and integrate with other systems or software. This can be especially useful for businesses with complex or custom workflows.

108. Ease of Scalability: Determine how easily you can scale your VPS resources as your needs grow. Look for providers that offer flexible scaling options without significant downtime or complex procedures.

109. Encryption and Security Features: Inquire about the encryption and security features provided by the hosting provider. This can include SSL certificates, VPN access, Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), and intrusion detection systems to protect your server and data.

110. Community and Support Resources: Check if the hosting provider has an active community or support resources, such as online forums, knowledge bases, tutorials, or a dedicated support team. These resources can be invaluable for troubleshooting, learning, and getting assistance when needed.