As you already know, Python is a high-level programming language that is interpreted and object-oriented. The selection of the host should be done very carefully.
In order to start that, you will be needing shell access. And the Apache installation should support CGI and mod_wsgi. Additionally, you have to confirm that any framework you are planning to use (like Django or Flask) is supported by the host.
And as the last step, you have to make sure the right version of Python is supported. So, today we are going to analyze the best Python hosts. They are,
- SiteGround with fast server speeds, strong security, and good value.
- Bluehost with a huge range of plans and free stuff
- A2 Hosting with incredible uptime and fast servers
- InMotion Hosting with secure US datacentres and scalable hosting
- HostGator with simple website transfers and free SEO credits
How did we select the best Python Hosts?
We selected the above five hosts from hundreds of hosts. Furthermore, we considered the following facts.
- Whether their Python interpreters are up to date
- Availability of popular frameworks
- Any unreasonable use restrictions in place
- Speed
- Security
- Performance
- Value
After that we considered the expert and customer reviews to complete the review process.
How to find the best Python Hosting?
Python will be an excellent language to create web applications. But most of the hosts won’t offer that and won’t support much. So, we are going to introduce you to Python and help you to select the right Python host.
What is Python?
Python is devised in the late ’80s and it is an object-oriented programming language. It was named after Monty Python’s Flying Circus (a BBC TV comedy series in the ’70s). The language was designed to be enjoyed by the programmers while they are using it.
The current version is 3 and still, it’s a popular language among programmers.
Usually, “foo” and “bar” are some variables that are commonly used in documentation of programming languages. However, in Python, the common variables are named “spam”, “eggs” and “ham”.
Python is easier to learn
When compared with the other languages which are hard to understand and learn, Python is much easier to learn. And it has the benefit of cross-platform compatibility.
Even though Python can be coded in the Terminal app on macOS, it is commonly used for security applications, or web applications running on a Unix or Linux server.
The language is used by YouTube, Google, NASA, and CERN, the home of the Large Hadron Collider. Python is used by CERN to decode data from Atlas, one of the LHC sensors. Furthermore the CERN staff host Python conferences and uses Python extensively in their Physics and Computing labs.
Python Versions and Releases
When I am writing this Python is running on version 3.8.1 which was released on 18th December 2019. If you want to know more about the programming language, you can go through the various Python versions and their respective updates.
Moreover, Python supports a variety of operating systems like Windows, macOS, iOS, Linux/UNIX, AIX, Solaris, and VMS.
You can see the latest updates of version 3 below.
| Version | Release Date |
| Python 3.8.1 | December 18, 2019 |
| Python 3.7.6 | December 18, 2019 |
| Python 3.6.10 | December 18, 2019 |
| Python 3.5.9 | November 2, 2019 |
| Python 3.5.8 | October 29, 2019 |
| Python 2.7.17 | October 19, 2019 |
| Python 3.7.5 | October 15, 2019 |
| Python 3.8.0 | October 14, 2019 |
| Python 3.7.4 | July 8, 2019 |
| Python 3.6.9 | July 2, 2019 |
Mixed Programming Paradigms
If you prefer to mix object-oriented programming with structured programming, Python would be ideal for you. And it is designed with a simple stylish form and grammar. So it can be read and understood easily.
Another thing is the code is written very clearly and briefly so even the inexperienced programmers will be able to review and change.
Though many programming languages use punctuation, Python uses English words. Therefore the files won’t be visually cluttered. Additionally, it is clearly indented to facilitate the easy scanning of a written code.
Extending Python
You can extend the functionality of Python with add on functions written in C or C+. And also it can be used as a command language with C.
A particular code can be run from within a Java application by allowing Java variables to be called from within Python and re-used.
Python; A well-established language
If you are going to create a Python application for the very first time, you don’t have to worry a bit. There is plenty of support available.
Even though Python has a reputation for being “slow” compared to other languages, it is used by some bigger sites on the internet. And there are plenty of web sources, tutorials, online classes and books to help you to get started.
Additionally, there are some things that you should consider if you are looking for Python hosting. You have to make sure to select the right plan. And you should look deeper into the details of the host’s Python offering before committing with them.
Python is ideal for Web apps
It is very flexible and it doesn’t have many restrictions. Python will be the best language for web development because you won’t need much time to write. Similarly, it is used in advanced, complex applications.
FYI various kinds of companies ranging from BitTorrent to YouTube have used or currently using Python. Similarly, it has a role in processing some of the most cutting-edge scientific data on Earth at NASA and CERN.
| Python Features | Functions |
|---|---|
| Clean syntax | Easy to learn Python and write code |
| Cross-platform | Runs on different server operating system |
| Used by big companies like YouTube, Google, NASA, CERN | Language has a lot of support |
| Lots of frameworks available | Easy to develop Python applications |
Python frameworks
Django, TurboGears, web2py, Flask( actually a microframework), and Pyramid are examples for well written Python web frameworks. So that you will be able to code web applications using them. And don’t worry a bit about how to handle low-level details like protocols, sockets or process and thread management.
These particular frameworks need explicit support so you have to confirm that your host supports them or not.
And if you are a beginner to run Python on the web, it is better to check whether your host offers Python tech support for free. You may need help to set things up.
Some Hosts Don’t Offer Python!
As the first step, you must ensure to install Python on your chosen server and that will be able to handle any file you upload even before signing up. Mainly the hosts who offer shared hosting won’t offer that.
The reason behind that is inexperienced programmers may slow down the entire server by inefficient coding of the Python app. Thereby bring down all other customer sites in the process. Those kinds of programmers may cause problems, especially in a shared environment, because mod_python is not locked down tightly like in mod_php on Apache.
Another thing you have to do is to check for support for frameworks like Flask and Django. Confirm that the version of Python and mod_python the web host is running. As Python 2 and Python 3 are somewhat different you may need to find the version your host has installed now. Additionally, look further into the specifics as some hosts may limit your use of Python to selected situations.
Python Prerequisites
First things are first. You must check the following.
- Check the interpreter of your host is using and make sure it is compatible with your needs (Outdated interpreters are there)
- Ensure that you have shell access
- Check whether the Apache installation supports CGI and mod_wsgi, and other things that needed for your web framework
Check Python Modules
It will be good if you can check the host’s policy on Python modules. Some hosts will install whatever you need and do it within about 24 hours. Others will have policies about which modules they allow and will refuse to install anything that is unsafe.
Persistent Processes
Check whether your host will allow running persistent processes on their servers, especially if you are going for a cheaper plan like a shared hosting plan. FYI many hosts won’t allow those kinds of processes.
Moreover, some hosts may consider your apps more suitable for a VPS plan or dedicated server and complete your contract even you have a shared hosting plan offering unlimited resources.
If you are planning to run persistent processes we recommend you invest in a virtual private server (VPS) or get a dedicated server (an expensive option but it let you code as you wish).
Dedicated Servers require maintenance
Opting for a dedicated service will be a good choice if you don’t want to spend time fixing things on your server that you broke accidentally. Similarly, the virtual environment that is offered by a VPS plan will stop those troubles. Another way to avoid those troubles is to look for a managed plan that supports custom coding.
Special Python Plans
If you need to exclusively code in Python or base a large amount of coding around that, our recommendation is to personally email the host before sign up. Because they may have a special plan for Python.
How to check your Python version on Windows, Linux, and Mac
You may be needing your Python version for various reasons. Just follow these steps to know that in Windows, Linux, and Mac.
In Windows and Linux, open your command line, and open the terminal in Mac:
- Linux: Hit “Ctrl-Alt-T or Ctrl-Alt-F2
- Windows: Press “Win+R” > type “powershell” > Hit “Enter”
- Mac: Go to “Finder > Applications > Utilities > Terminal”
Then enter the following text:
- Windows/Linux: python –version
- Mac: python -V
(Make sure to capitalize the “V” in Mac command line)
Then you will see the version as three digits separated by two dots in the middle. As in the below example:
Python 3.8.1
Via your Control Panel
How to check the Python version of your server’s machine? Let me answer. You can search for the term “python” if you are using cPanel or Plesk. And see what you get. Sadly, changing the Python version is not as simple as changing the PHP version.
Similarly, you can use the above Command-Line method if you are provided with root access.
Selecting a Host
A dedicated server will be the best option for Python. Actually it is quite expensive. And as the dedicated server comes without limitations you can take control of your Python install.
The second best would be Virtual Private Server (VPS), unlike a shared hosting plan. FYI most hosts don’t support Python on shared hosting. That is because it is too easy for inexperienced coders to bring down the server and running Python apps will be a resource drain.
You have to keep the following things in mind when selecting a web host for Python.
- The chosen package should have Python support
- Updated Python interpreter version
- Check the installed modules and the host’s policy regarding new modules
- Whether you can install Python packages (directories of Python modules by yourself)
- Confirm whether the host allows you to run persistent processes
- The availability of shell (SSH) access
- Options with databases (usually Python scripts play well with a MySQL database)
Finally, if you are planning to spend a lot of time working with Python, go for a specialized host rather than a cheap one. Later you will realize that paying a little extra won’t be a problem for a supportive host that keeps their Python install up to date. Moreover, the host will let you run persistent processes and won’t penalize.
The Top Three WordPress Hosts
| Host | Plan Types | Starting Price (Dedicated Servers) |
| A2 Hosting | Shared, WordPress, VPS, Dedicated, Reseller | $99.59/mo |
| LiquidWeb | WordPress, Cloud, VPS, Dedicated | $109.00/mo |
| InMotion | Shared, WordPress, VPS, Dedicated | $105.69/mo |
Basically the facts we considered are the availability of full support for Python, multiple frameworks, use of modules/packages, and the availability of support (both tech and online documentation).
Other hosts like SiteGround, Page, and GoDaddy offered support for Python. However, there were some limitations or there were some issues with the support.
Advantages & Disadvantages
Advantages
- Supports HTTP and MIME
- You can code extensions in C or C++
- Can run from Java applications
- Have an easy connection to databases
- A lot of freely available packages to speed up development and cut costs
Disadvantages
- Difficult to spot mistakes
- Slow
- Furthermore, learning Python alone is very difficult unless you are an experienced developer
- The support team will not cover the technical issues
- Only a few hosts will give Python support for shared hosting plans. Therefore, you have to go to expensive VPS or dedicated servers.