If you had an offline business would you try to operate it in the middle of a field with just a table to offer your products? Or would you operate even closer to home out on your front lawn? If you had a landscaping service that might be a legitimate option, but for any other business where you are selling a product, or a service, a table on the lawn just isn't going to do.

However, that is exactly what you do when you choose to host a website with a free hosting company. Especially when website hosting package are so very inexpensive now. Companies like Dreamhost and HostGator are very inexpensive ways to have a website and begin to build a strong business.

Many people are still asking that same question, however. "Do I need a website? Can't I just use a free web host?" You can, but you're not going to be able to build a strong web presence going that route. Here's a few reasons why.

1. It's Too Cheap Not To Have Your Own Webhost

When someone is visiting your site for the first time and they see banner ads, cheap graphics, and a generic styling, they know that you didn't put any effort into creating your own site. This screams scam, or something to stay away from. This doesn't have to happen. Many of the webhosting companies today, like that of HostGator, are offering amazingly inexpensive hosting packages for just a few dollars a month. People will think that if you can't afford a few dollars for your website, then your product just isn't worth it either.

2. Name Recognition

One of the first things someone is going to see about your website is the domain address. If it is memorable, they will be able to find your again. If it is something like freewebhosting.com/userid/webpage.php then you're probably not going to see that visitor again.

Having a real website, hosted with a real hosting company, will allow you to have your own domain name and begin to build that all important name recognition. The best thing about it is that your own domain is free when you sign up for your hosting package.

3. Personalized Email Address

I have nothing against Gmail or Hotmail, but I wouldn't use them for my business email. It is a quick turnoff when someone is emailing for customer service at service1087 AT Gmail dot com. With a hosting company you can have unlimited number of email addresses all with your domain name after the @ symbol. Easy to remember, and professional looking for anyone who wants to get in touch with you for more information.

4. Room To Expand

Hosting companies like HostGator are doing a lot of things to help people build powerful web presences. In today's age of blogs, forums, and landing pages it is necessary to have to build more than one site, on more than one domain name. A hosting company will allow you to do that. With a free host you have to manage another account.