Python is an interpreted, object-oriented, high-level programming language. Choosing a good host requires careful vetting.
To start with, you’ll need shell access and the Apache installation needs to support CGI and mod_wsgi. You’ll want to make sure that any frameworks you plan to use — such as Django or Flask — are supported by the host.
Finally, you need to make sure the right version of Python is supported.
In this review, we analyze the best Python hosts.
The Best Python Hosting Providers
Python is an increasingly useful programming language because its flexible and easy to learn. Several web hosts now offer hosting that supports Python and install it on their servers. Here are the top five choices for Python hosting:
Find What You’re Looking For
The Best Python Hosting Providers
The Best Python Hosting Provider Reviewed
What Is Python?
How Did We Choose the Best Python Hosts?
Pros and Cons of Python Hosting
Python Frameworks
Warning: Double-check With Your Web Host to Ensure They Offer Python Hosting
Prerequisites for Python Hosting
How To Check Your Python Version
Things to Remember When Choosing a Python Host
Frequently Asked Questions About Python
What is Python?
What is Python used for?
What is the best development framework for Python?
Why is Python popular?
Is Python used for web development?
Why is Python recommended for beginners?
Is Python available on shared hosting plans?
What do I need to look for in Python hosting?
What is mod_python?
What is a Python module?
What are the alternatives to Python?
Should I use Python or Ruby for my project?
Is it easier to use PHP rather than Python?
What are the differences between Python v2 and Python v3?
What server is best for Python?
Is Python used for frontend or backend?
Can Python be used for Web applications?
How does Python interact with HTML?
Is Python faster than C++?
What companies use Python?
What is Python used for at Google?
Final Thoughts
Browse Web Hosting Provider Reviews
The Best Python Hosting Provider Reviewed
Bluehost: Best Overall Hosting
Bluehost is a large website host well-known in the industry for its WordPress expertise. It is also popular for its variety of “one-stop-shop” solutions and services, as well as bargain prices. Bluehost currently powers over 2 million sites worldwide, mainly out of its huge data center in Utah. Also, the company offers almost every website hosting service that you might possibly need, such as advanced hosting like VPS, managed WordPress hosting, and dedicated server. Besides offering a complete range of website hosting services, the company provides SEO services, marketing training, social media marketing, graphic design services, and content creation.
Bluehost also has an advanced and reliable WordPress hosting category called WP Pro. Note that WP Pro is available in 3 tiers. It is an excellent managed WordPress offering that gives your website back end the coveted white-glove treatment and also includes amazing social media, SEO, and email marketing tools. And WP Pro’s 3 plans (Grow, Build, and Scale) all feature unlimited website hosting, domains, monthly data transfers, and storage, which is great.
Pros and Cons of Bluehost Hosting Services
Bluehost is an incredibly reliable hosting provider that has strong customer service, offers uptime, and great value for money. So, if you are looking to host your WordPress website, this is one of the best providers for you.
Pros
- Solid uptime
- Generous storage
- Includes several security features such as unique IPs, SSL, & SiteLock protection
Cons
- Renewal rates might be higher than expected
- Bluehost only offer servers in Linux, Windows hosting is not available
What Customers Are Saying
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Money-Back Guarantee | 60 Days |
DreamHost: Best Hosting Bandwidth
DreamHost is one of the biggest names in the business, notable for its WordPress hosting plans and 97-day money-back guarantee. If you’re looking for shared hosting, then you can choose from either the Shared Starter plan or Shared Unlimited, both of which come with a free domain, free SSL certificate, and website builder. The Starter plan costs $2.59 per month and supports one website, with email costing an extra $1.67 per month. The Unlimited plan offers unlimited websites and unlimited email at your domain for $4.95 per month. With either plan, you’ll get unlimited bandwidth and storage, automated backups, and an easy-to-use control panel. As for support, DreamHost promises 24/7 availability, although live chat is only available between 5:30 a.m. and 9:30 p.m. PST. There’s also an online knowledge base where you can find detailed guides and answers to frequently asked questions. If you’re in the market for something other than shared hosting, you can also choose cloud hosting, VPS hosting, dedicated hosting, or standalone email hosting.
Pros and Cons of DreamHost Web Hosting
With a 97-day money-back guarantee and unlimited bandwidth and storage, DreamHost is a cost-effective hosting provider with a range of different services. However, not all of their offerings are available on Windows servers, so you’ll need to confirm its suitability before settling on a plan. For example, their cloud servers come preloaded with Linux, but can be configured to run Windows or another operating system of your choice.
Pros
- 97-day money-back guarantee
- Unlimited bandwidth and storage
- Friendly customer service
Cons
- Limited options for Windows
What Customers Are Saying
DreamHost gets positive reviews for its technical capabilities and customer support: “I have never had an issue that was not resolved quickly, and in some cases, DreamHost proactively dealt with the issue before I was aware of it.” Another customer says that “I’ve rarely had a problem with their service and when there is a glitch, they are on it, helping a not-particularly-computer-literate person fix the problem quickly.”
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Money-Back Guarantee | 97 days |
A2 Hosting: Best Hosting for Speed
While A2 Hosting is known for its Linux hosting plans, as of this writing, its website says that Windows hosting plans will be coming soon, and “our engineers are still perfecting our Windows platform.” So if you’re interested in this hosting provider, you can sign up to be notified by email and get “special deals when we launch.” If their other pricing plans are anything to go by, you can expect to pay $2.99 per month for a Startup plan, which comes with one website and 100 GB storage, or $4.99 per month for a Drive plan, which includes unlimited websites and storage. Their Turbo Boost and Turbo Max plans cost a bit more, but provide up to 20 times faster server speeds. A2 Hosting plans come with a free SSL certificate, 24/7/365 customer support, and free site migration, and automatic backup options. Their data centers are located in the U.S., Europe, and Asia, and you can choose which one you want to use. You’ll also get the benefit of a 30-day money-back guarantee, and prorated refunds after that.
Pros and Cons of A2 Hosting Web Hosting
Windows hosting plans are still in the works, so if you’re trying to get started right away, then A2 Hosting may not be an option. But with their impressive uptime, 24/7 customer support, and generous refund policy, they may be worth the wait. In the meantime, you can explore their other hosting options, including dedicated servers and VPS hosting.
Pros
- 24/7/365 support
- International data centers
Cons
- Windows options coming soon
What Customers Are Saying
Customers speak highly of their pricing plans and customer support. One reviewer says, “A2 Hosting is a cost-effective deal for both companies and Small-Medium Businesses,” while another says, “I am very pleased and impressed with the level of support from A2 Hosting — that’s in addition to their excellent documentation.”
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Money-Back Guarantee | Full refund within 30 days, prorated refund anytime |
LiquidWeb: Best Dedicated Hosting
Liquid Web offers LiteSpeed on its dedicated servers as an optional alternative to Apache.
The site mentions only PHP4 and PHP5 compatibility and the “Learn More” link is broken, though, so it’s not clear how up-to-date Liquid Web’s commitment is.
The web host specializes in managed services, and it gives guaranteed support response times around the clock, as well as guaranteeing 100% uptime.
Pros and Cons of Liquid Web Hosting
Windows hosting plans are still in the works, so if you’re trying to get started right away, then A2 Hosting may not be an option. But with their impressive uptime, 24/7 customer support, and generous refund policy, they may be worth the wait. In the meantime, you can explore their other hosting options, including dedicated servers and VPS hosting.
Pros
- High-performance plans
- 100% network/power uptime guarantee
- Excellent support team
Cons
- Windows options coming soon
What Customers Are Saying
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Money-Back Guarantee | Full refund within 30 days |
Hostinger: Best Budget Hosting
Hostinger offers a wide variety of hosting plans, including shared, cloud, email, and VPS hosting. Windows users can choose from four Windows VPS options, all of which come with a 30-day money-back guarantee and 24/7 customer support. Windows VPS 1 starts at $26 per month, and includes 2 GB RAM, 50 GB storage, and 4 TB bandwidth. VPS 2 starts at $62 per month, and increases the specs to 4 GB RAM, 100 GB storage, and 5 TB bandwidth. Options 3 and 4 offer even more bandwidth and storage, maxing out at $250 per month.
You’ll also get a dedicated IP address, full root user access with SSH control, and Windows Server 2012 layout. Hostinger supports high-level data backup management, an easy-to-use VPS control panel, and applications in .ASP, .NET, VB, and other programming languages. Other useful tools include a domain name checker to help you find a new domain, and a drag-and-drop website builder with professionally-created templates.
Pros and Cons of Hostinger Web Hosting
Hostinger offers everything from cloud and VPS hosting to Minecraft hosting, so they’re a pretty well-rounded hosting provider. They don’t offer Windows servers for all options, though, so they may not be the right fit for all users. Their Power store makes it easy to add on additional features, such as Cloudflare protection, G Suite, and business email, but customer support is limited to live chat — no phone or ticketing system.
Pros
- G Suite and email integrations
- Low starting price
- Free SSL certificate
Cons
- Support via live chat only
- No shared Windows servers
What Customers Are Saying
Users say that Hostinger offers good value for the price: “They are reliable and patient. Even when it is a problem on my end, they help me out.” Another says, “Considering the cheap price, it is a great deal. They offer so many features even on their cheapest plan.”
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What Is Python?
Python is an object-oriented programming language devised in the late 1980s. Now on version 3, it’s still popular with programmers.
Named after Monty Python’s Flying Circus, a 1970s BBC TV comedy series, Python’s creators designed the language to be enjoyable for programmers to use.
The variables “foo” and “bar” are often used in documentation of programming languages, but in Python, the same demonstrations are generally written with variables named “spam,” “ham” and “eggs.”
Python Is Ideal for Mixed Programming Paradigms
Python is ideal for those who like to mix an object-oriented approach with structured programming.
It’s also designed to be easily read and understood by novices thanks to a very simple stylistic form and grammar.
The code is intentionally written very clearly and concisely and is easy for inexperienced programmers to review and change.
Where many languages use punctuation, Python leans towards using English words, making any given file less cluttered visually.
It is also clearly indented when written to make the code easy to scan.
You Can Extend Python Easily
Python’s functionality can be extended with add-on functions written in C or C+, and it can also be used as a command language with C.
Code can also be run from within a Java application, allowing Java variables to be called from within Python and re-used.
Python is Easy to Learn
Compared to languages that appear impenetrable to the novice, Python is considered to be easier to learn, and its cross-platform compatibility is one of its major benefits.
It can be coded in the Terminal app on macOS but is also often used for security applications, or web applications running on a Unix or Linux server.
The language is employed by YouTube, Google, and NASA, as well as CERN, the home of the Large Hadron Collider.
CERN uses Python to decode data from Atlas, one of the LHC sensors. The CERN staff also host Python conferences and uses Python extensively in their physics and computing labs.
Python Is Well-Established
If you’re venturing into coding with Python and creating a Python application for the first time, there is a wealth of support available.
Python is used by some of the biggest sites on the internet, despite having a reputation for being “slow” compared to other languages, and there are numerous web resources, tutorials, online classes, and books which will get you started quickly.
<b>Take Care in Hosting</b>
There are lots of options if you’re looking for Python hosting, but some care is needed.
Make sure you select the right plan and really drill into the details of your preferred host’s Python offering before you sign up for a long-term hosting commitment.
<h3>Python Is Ideal For Web Apps</h3>
Python is extremely adaptable, and there aren’t many limits to what it can do.
Python Versions and Releases
At the time of writing, Python is running on version 3.8.1, released on December 18, 2019.
If you want to familiarize yourself with the programming language, exploring various Python versions and their respective updates can give you an idea of what to expect.
Python supports a variety of operating systems, including Windows, MacOS, iOS, Linux/UNIX, AIX, Solaris, and VMS.
Here is a summary of Python’s ten latest updates, mainly consisting of version 3, with a single update for version two:
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 |
How Did We Choose the Best Python Hosts?
We sorted through hundreds of hosts to find those that met the specs outlined above.
More, we made sure these hosts’ Python interpreters were up-to-date, popular frameworks were available, and no unreasonable use restrictions were in place. We also vetted the hosts for speed, security, performance, and value.
Then we applied the knowledge gained from our expert and customer reviews to pick the best hosts.
Pros and Cons of Python Hosting
Python is used by all kinds of companies and organizations, including Google, NASA, and CERN.
The Large Hadron Collider (LHC) decodes its critical ATLAS data using Python. So there are many reasons to use it. But there are cons too.
Pros of Python Hosting
- It supports HTTP and MIME out of the box, so you can get up and running with your web apps written in Python faster
- You can code extensions in C or C++
- Python can be run from Java applications
- Programmers can easily connect to databases to bring content into their projects.
- There are tens of thousands of pre-made, freely available packages to speed up development and potentially cut costs.
Cons of Python Hosting
- It can be difficult to spot mistakes in your file until it’s time to run the code, which makes debugging cumbersome
- It can be slow, so you’ll need a speedy host to compensate
- Unless you’re an experienced developer, learning Python solo is a challenge
- Hosts that have Python installed may not be able to help you if you run into a technical problem — a lot of hosts stipulate that they support Python-based applications, but their support team does not cover malfunctions as a result of your code
- Few hosts will provide Python support for a shared hosting plan, which means you will have to opt for the more expensive VPS hosting plan or dedicated server. As such, this is not a cheap undertaking.
Why Python Is Good for Web Development
It’s ideal for web development because it’s quick to write (there’s a lot of built-in support for things like HTTP and MySQL database integrations) yet can be used in advanced, sophisticated applications.
All kinds of companies, from BitTorrent to YouTube, have used (or currently use) Python, and it plays a part in processing some of the most cutting-edge scientific data on Earth at NASA and CERN.
Its versatility and simplicity make it an ideal choice for web apps as well.
Python Features | Functions |
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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
There is an abundance of well-written Python web frameworks, such as Django, TurboGears, web2py, Flask (which is technically a microframework), and Pyramid. With these, you can code web applications without worrying about how to handle low-level details, such as protocols, sockets, or process and thread management.
These server-side frameworks require explicit support, so if you opt to use one, be sure that your web host supports it as well.
If you’re new to running Python on the web, you might want to check that your host offers Python tech support for free — just in case you need a hand getting things set up in the beginning.
Warning: Double-check With Your Web Host to Ensure They Offer Python Hosting
Naturally, you should ensure that Python is installed on your chosen web host’s servers and that it can handle any file you upload before you sign up.
Some hosts, particularly those who offer shared hosting, don’t offer it at all.
Remember: Python Can Slow Down Servers
That’s usually because inexperienced programmers can slow an entire server by coding their Python app inefficiently, bringing down other customers’ sites in the process.
Malicious programmers could cause problems in a shared environment since mod_python isn’t locked down as tightly as mod_php on Apache.
Check for Framework Support
When looking for Python hosting, check for support for frameworks such as Flask and Django.
Ascertain the version of Python and mod_python the web host is running.
Python 2 and Python 3 are quite different, and you may find the version your host has installed currently is not entirely backward-compatible.
You’ll also want to dig deeper into the specifics — some web hosts limit your use of Python to selected situations only.
Prerequisites for Python Hosting
Check the interpreter that your host is using and make sure it’s suitable for your needs. Some interpreters are out-dated, and requests for an upgrade may fall on deaf ears.
Ensure you have shell access and that the Apache installation supports CGI and mod_wsgi, as well as anything you need for your web framework.
Check for Python Modules
It’s also worth checking the host’s policy on Python modules. Some Python web hosts are happy to install whatever you need and will do so relatively quickly — for example, within 24 hours.
Other hosts may have policies around which modules they will allow, and they will refuse to install anything that’s unproven or untested.
Check that Your Host Allows Persistent Processes
Also, check that your host will allow you to run persistent processes (sometimes called ‘long-running processes’) on its servers, particularly if you have your heart set on a cheaper plan, such as a shared hosting plan.
Many hosts don’t allow such processes because they are, by nature, resource hogs.
Even if you have a shared hosting plan offering unlimited resources, your web host may consider your apps more appropriate for a VPS plan or dedicated server and terminate your contract accordingly.
If you need to run persistent processes, you may be best off investing in a virtual private server (VPS) instead, or you may just want to bite the bullet and get a dedicated server — an expensive option, but one which will allow you to code whatever you like, however you like.
Keep in Mind That Dedicated Servers Require Maintenance
Be wary, however, of opting for a dedicated server if you don’t want to spend time fixing things on your server that you accidentally break along the way.
Again, we want to reiterate that a virtual environment offered by a VPS plan will save you from this kind of trouble, or you might consider looking into a managed plan that supports custom coding.
Ask for Special Python Plans
If you want to exclusively code in Python or base a large amount of your coding around it, it’s best to personally email the host before signing up for a contract.
They may have a special plan for Python at a reasonable cost that gives you more freedom and flexibility.
How To Check Your Python Version
You may want to check your machine’s Python version for a variety of reasons.
Checking Your Python Version on Windows, Linux, and Mac
Open your command line (Windows, Linux) or terminal (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”
Once your command line or terminal is open, enter the following text:
- Windows/Linux: python –version
- Mac: python -V
(On the Mac command line, make sure the “V” is capitalized.)
The version will display as 3 digits separated by two dots in the middle, like: Python 3.8.1
Checking Your Python Version Via Your Control Panel
What about when you want to check your server’s machines Python version? When you log in to your hosting control panel, you might expect to see a “Python” sub-menu, but you won’t.
Your best bet when you use cPanel or Plesk is to simply search for the term “python” and see what results you get. Unfortunately, changing your Python version isn’t like changing your PHP version.
Providing you have root access, you can use the Command Line method outlined above.
Things to Remember When Choosing a Python Host
The best option for Python is a dedicated server. While it’s an expensive option, a dedicated server comes without limitations so that you can take control of your Python install.
If you don’t want to go dedicated, you would be best off with a Virtual Private Server (VPS), rather than a shared hosting plan.
Most hosts won’t support Python on shared hosting, since it’s too easy for inexperienced coders to bring a server down unwittingly, and because running Python apps can be a resource drain.
When choosing a web host for Python:
- Make sure that your chosen package has Python support in the specs.
- Check the Python interpreter version, since a host may be reluctant to update an old interpreter if there’s little demand.
- Ascertain which modules are installed, and what the policy is regarding new modules.
- Check on whether you can install Python packages, which are directories of Python modules, by yourself.
- Make sure your host will allow you to run persistent processes; on shared hosting, this is unlikely.
- Check that you have Shell (SSH) access.
- Check what your options are when it comes to databases — you can expect Python scripts to play well with a MySQL database, generally speaking, but if that’s not an option, you’ll need to do a bit more digging.
If you plan to spend a lot of time working with Python, look for a host that specializes in it, rather than going for the cheapest host and hoping for the best. Use the host’s email support or live chat to ask them about Python before committing yourself to a monthly spend.
In the long run, you’ll find it’s far easier to pay slightly more for a host that’s supportive and keeps their Python install up to date.
Additionally, the host will expect you to run persistent processes and won’t penalize you for it.
Frequently Asked Questions About Python
What is Python?
What is Python used for?
What is the best development framework for Python?
Why is Python popular?
Is Python used for web development?
Why is Python recommended for beginners?
What do I need to look for in Python hosting?
What is mod_python?
What is a Python module?
What are the alternatives to Python?
Should I use Python or Ruby for my project?
Is it easier to use PHP rather than Python?
What are the differences between Python v2 and Python v3?
What server is best for Python?
Is Python used for frontend or backend?
Can Python be used for Web applications?
How does Python interact with HTML?
Is Python faster than C++?
What companies use Python?
What is Python used for at Google?
Final Thoughts
Despite the fact that the Python programming language is commonly-used by entities both small and large, web hosting for websites and apps utilizing Python can be hard to find.
There are lots of reasons for this, but the bottom line is that you’ll probably pay a premium to get the hosting environment you need.
Need a great web host? Want to save some time? This shortlist is your best place to begin:
- BluehostStarting at $2.75/mo View Current Deal
- SiteGroundStarting at $3.99/mo View Current Deal
- HostingerStarting at $2.99/mo View Current Deal
- WP EngineStarting at $20/mo View Current Deal
- A2 HostingStarting at $2.99/mo View Current Deal
- DreamHostStarting at $2.95/mo View Current Deal