Web.com Review 2016

Design & Customization
8.9

Features & Tools
8.8

Plans & Pricing
9.0

Customer Support
8.9

Ease of Use
8.8

8.9

Web.com

One of the earliest website design companies to join the field, Web.com began as Website Pros in 1999. Headquartered in Florida, Web.com has a diverse infrastructure, having acquired several web-related companies including Web.com in 2007. Since then, the company has grown to become one of the largest providers of both comprehensive website design services and DIY website builders, hosting, Internet marketing, and eCommerce. Read our Web.com review below.

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Pros

One of the largest and most established companies
Original eCommerce solution
Thousands of templates
Integrates with Google Analytics
Live support via an 800-number
Premium security

Cons

Traditional templates, designed for function vs. aesthetics
Pricing and features table not directly listed
Extensive list of deliverables, but not for businesses on a budget
Complicated interface for new users

Overview

Website: www.web.com
Headquarters: Jacksonville, FL
Year Founded: 1997
Employees: 2,200+
Sites Built: 55,000,000+
Categories: Website maker software
Services: Website hosting, Website design, Internet marketing, eCommerce
Money-back Guarantee: 30 days

With over 3.3 million subscribers, 2,200 employees, and over 20 physical locations, Web.com is in a class of its own. Web.com shares a supportive company culture, values, and teamwork and discloses this information on the website. There are advantages and disadvantages in a company with such a long and large standing.

Web.com offers one of the largest, most versatile products and services portfolios of any website builder. While the templates are traditional, designed for function, Web.com is more than a DIY shop. Web.com also provides full-service website design. Either of these options can produce favorable results for individuals or business owners who need to establish and maintain a website. Expect to pay a bit higher rates for Web.com’s extensive features and services.

Who Is Web.com Recommended For?

Web.com’s website builder is recommended for business owners, store owners, bloggers, and others who need a functional, active site. It suits those who wish to build a basic site or those who need someone to create a more complex site for them.

Web.com’s Area of Focus / Specialties

Web.com is focused on functional, no-frills websites that meet individual or business needs. With an increased template set, Web.com offers over 2,500 templates that can easily be swapped out after the content is added. The templates appear a bit dated, but owners can get a customized website that meets their particular design needs. Unix, Linux, and Windows hosting packages are available. Web.com does a good job of eCommerce, with great add-on and plugin capabilities.

Web.com’s Technical Specs / Limitations

Web.com offers the standard DIY website builder features for a successful website along with the option to let someone do the work for you. It is a functional, well-designed platform for eCommerce with built-in solutions and interactive dashboard options.

Regarding limitations, the user interface is not as user-friendly some of Web.com’s new competitors, and it does not appear that Web.com offers a free trial. The monthly pricing options are a bit higher for this seasoned, highly evolved the platform.

Is There Adequate Scalability / Room To Grow?

While the pricing plans are not clearly stated up front on the Web.com website, there seems to be a decent set of comprehensive monthly payment plans for a full hosting solution, and successful marketing needed to promote a business. It will not be inexpensive, but Web.com offers real marketing that is required for online success.

What is the MoneyBack Guarantee Policy?

Web.com offers a 30-day money back guarantee, but you won’t find easily find this information on the website. Users complain about the difficulty in canceling once you’ve signed up.

What is Web.com’s Reputation?

After a long history in the website space, it appears that Web.com has taken a back seat with new do-it-yourself clients. Once the most powerful and successful website building solutions, it seems that Web.com has failed to keep up in some ways.

While the company has a huge following and one of the broadest ranges of services, it has undergone numerous transformations and must stack up against new outperformers for efficient website building. For those who still prefer to have a web designer to do the job for them, Web.com fairs well in the industry. Recent reviews show Web.com with a good reputation among full-service designers and only fair reputation among do-it-yourself site owners. `

Why Choose Web.com?

Web.com site builder has a following, a huge feature set, multiple options for website design and development, and is worthy of supporting large enterprises and advanced eCommerce. This company does everything.

The question is, do they do it well? If you want a seasoned, rich company with history and the capability to provide extensive website design services, spend the money and invest with Web.com. If you are a small business that needs a basic do-it-yourself website, there are dozens of cost-effective website builder alternatives, such as Squarespace and Weebly to suit your needs.

Key Features

Free Domain Name
Unlimited Web Storage
Over 2500 Templates in 30 Categories

Dashboard Style Editor
Page Style Customization
Google Analytics Integration

Mobile Site Building
Custom Design Service
Social Media Integration

WordPress Integration
HTML Editor
Payment Gateway Integration

Experts on Web.com

Website Builder

Industry Experts Verdict on Web.com

Website BuilderIn the end, experts have similar feelings about Web.com, but they are a little more diplomatic in their wording and willing to give the website builder at least 2 to 2.5 stars out of five. Critics were happy with the customer service and didn’t seem disturbed by the less than transparent pricing practices.

Here are some other more in-depth critiques experts had to offer:

Confusing interface. It’s hard to navigate and the text entry tools just seem off.
The builder doesn’t come with a blog and it’s hard to import a WordPress blog.
While Web.com offers reliable customer support, it lacks a live chat feature. Customers will have to call to receive prompt assistance.
The DIY version comes with severe limitations and strings attached.

With so many excellent website builders on the market, experts agree that there is no reason to waste your time or money on Web.com.

http://www.top10bestwebsitebuilders.com/reviews/web-com
http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2426338,00.asp

Web.com Positive Reviews

Positive Consumer Reviews and Testimonials on Web.com

Out of dozens of consumer reviews, I only found a few positive reviews. Keep in mind that most of the didn’t actually include anything specific about the website builder. One customer was quite pleased with the ease of use when it came to Web.com’s website builder. They were completely new to website building and appreciated the simplicity of the builder and its features. Others described these same elements as too straightforward and limited to create a professional looking site. It may all come down to a matter of perspective, but the vast majority of users were at a loss to find anything positive to say.

If expectations are low, and you are aware of the company’s deceptive billing practices, then you might not be disappointed.

Negative Reviews

Negative Consumer Reviews and Complaints on Web.com

Where to begin? To put it mildly, Web.com is not well reviewing by consumers. If you were only to read user reviews, it would be nearly impossible to get even a feel for the service and what they offer because so many of the complaints have to do with billing issues. A lot of people felt mislead by Web.com pricing practices after finding out that they amount they were being charged just for a trial period. Customers also complained about a lot of other mysterious charges.

Beyond the questionable billing practices, Web.com’s actual website building is generally described as “terrible.” Not only is it difficult to use, it only works a small portion of the time. All in all, the program sounds like a scam.

http://www.sitejabber.com/reviews/www.web.com

Design & Customization

Whether you require design and customization options that you can manage on your own, or you prefer to invest in a company that can do this for you, Web.com has the capabilities but expect to pay. Below are some fine details about what to expect with Web.com’s design and customization options.

Feature	Overview
Web.com Templates	With Web.com, users and designers will select from over 2,500 templates in 30 categories. The templates are quite traditional with attention to function over modernity. The templates include a search option by keyword or color. Switching between templates is possible even after you have entered website information and components. Web.com manages mobile display in an alternate view. Or, Web.com can create your site for you, with the customization and mobility options you desire. Variety and quality of templates and palette of colors. For the do-it-yourself option, there are templates available in every style and color to meet personal or business needs. The color schemes are complementary, and the layouts are intuitive. Pre-selected Templates vs. Building Website From Scratch. Web.com offers both. Do-it-yourselfers select from the templates, or Web.com’s designers can build your site from scratch (using a theme you like). These professionals have experience with HTML/CSS code to customize further your site.
Web.com Interface	Web.com is versatile in that users have the option to develop a website themselves or let the company design and develop a site for sophisticated business needs. The interface is relatively easy to get started with and offers a professional dashboard style editor. While you can do everything you can think of and more, it does not appear to be that easy.
Page Style Customization`	With Web.com’s page style customization options, you have the ability to personalize a website site and modify the content and components to meet your online needs. Web.com has the capabilities, but you may want to leave it to their developers to do this for you. The design choices for personalization. Web.com has the tools for personalization, but beginning users will have a learning curve. The liberty of moving, resizing and editing content. Basic editing is not too complicated, once you’ve made it through the setup. Is there access to HTML/CSS code? Some HTML code seems to be possible, but this is another component that may be better handled by the Web.com developers. Visual editing user interface. The visual editing appears well, but in fact, many DIY users are complaining about the interface and use of the features. Having Web.com design your website for you at premium price seems to be the way to customize for results. Those signing on to do it themselves seem disgruntled and disappointed, based on their user reviews.
Site Navigation	Web.com site navigation is based on the templates, but the full-service design option will give you the navigation to meet your business needs. Some added work is necessary to display a website on a mobile device
Photos and Galleries	Web.com site navigation is based on the templates, but the full-service design option will give you the navigation to meet your business needs. Some added work is necessary to display a website on a mobile device.
Content Management	Managing content on Web.com is not for those without experience. Beginning DIY users are frustrated, so using Web.com for full services is recommended for this audience. Beginners may find other dedicated website builders better options. An advanced user may well be satisfied with the complexities of Web.com’s platform.
Photos and Galleries	Web.com has options to integrate just about any form of imagery. Finding a gallery to peruse in advance was not an option.
Mobile Site Building	Web.com offers mobile site building options, but they are not built into the templates as you will find with more modern website builders. Without too much work, a separate mobile view can be included. Mobile site building can easily be implemented with Web.com’s full design service.
Social Media Integration	Some social media options and social media integration are available on Web.com. This important feature is one of the many offered for businesses and store owners to reach customers.
Custom Design Services	Web.com’s primary service – unlike most online design-your-own website builders – is a major website design and development service. Web.com does that better. While trying to fit into the DIY space, users are frustrated with the complexities of this legacy program. For a simplified DIY platform for more basic websites, you will want to explore other website builders. Web.com is for the advanced, functional websites and is best at designing a website for you.

Features & Tools

As one of the original complete website building companies, the feature-set is huge. Suited for larger more sophisticated sites that need particular attention or a more advanced programmer who has worked with website design, Web.com is certain to meet the demands for eCommerce and business features:

Feature	Overview
Web.com Setup	Web.com shows some sample sites along with a snapshot view of the templates before you click the Get Started button. You will need to enter a domain name, create an account, and select a template to customize and publish. The first month is inexpensive, but each of three plans goes up after that.
Web Design	Once you select a Web.com template, you surely begin the web design process. Web.com offers four design options: do-it-for-me web design, custom design, do-it-yourself web design, and mobile website
The depth of Navigation	Web.com seems to provide the standard depth of navigation on any pre-designed template, or anything is possible if you have them build your website for you.
Widgets and Apps	Web.com is compatible with dozens of apps, widgets, and plugins to accommodate advanced eCommerce, portfolios, and other complex websites.
Monetization	As a powerful eCommerce platform, having purchased some brands over the years, Web.com offers the tools needed for store owners. Web.com brands include Register.com, Network Solutions, 1ShoppingCart.com, and more.
Visitor Statistics	Web.com will have no problem with visitor statistics, using Google Analytics for tracking and reporting.
Photos, Videos, and Audio	Web.com integrates with the visual and media tools you need to market your brand. Easily swap images or media buttons.
Photos and Galleries	Web.com has options to integrate just about any form of imagery. Finding a gallery to peruse in advance was not an option.
Mobile Site Building	Web.com offers mobile site building options, but they are not built into the templates as you will find with more modern website builders. Without too much work, a separate mobile view can be included. Mobile site building can easily be implemented with Web.com’s full design service.
Blogging	Blogging is relatively straightforward with Web.com’s integration with WordPress. The process will require some research
Google Maps	Web.com lets you quickly upload Google Maps, other maps, and some popular widgets.
HTML Editor	It appears HTML snippets and some code are possible with Web.com. This would be a feature in the Web.com comprehensive design service.
Forms and Surveys	The elements of forms and surveys can be integrated, or call on the Web.com programmers for this service.
Storage Space	Based on the plan you subscribe to, you receive 300GB, 500GB, or unlimited storage space to support your website. Some of the Linux, Unix, and Windows hosting plans offer unlimited storage and bandwidth.
Newsletter Tool	Web.com offers a robust marketing package where they manage client newsletters, articles, blogs, mailings, and more.
Forum Support	Web.com provides users forums as part of their support plan. Customer website forums can be built.
E-Commerce / Online Store	An original commander of website eCommerce, Web.com is best at designing eCommerce sites for business owners and store owners. Not only that, they own some the new toolsets for this platform. This is another advantage of Web.com’s full suite of design services.
Gateway Integration	Payment gateway services are simple with Web.com—part of their premier portfolio.
SEO and Online Marketing	The Web.com search engine optimization and marketing options are expansive, with videos, articles, and press releases offered in their SEO package. The full-service option is robust in guiding store owners to reach customers and score rankings on Google, Yahoo and Bing searches. Web.com offers pay per click advertising, blog management, social media, and much more. Expect to pay.
Site Limited Access (Password Protection)	Web.com provides an account login when you sign up, and clients access a password-protected environment for editing and customizing at any time.
Google® Analytics	Web.com integrates with Google Analytics with no known issues.
Website Builder Security	Web.com takes security seriously, with spam protection via CatchGuard, email virus protection, and an add-on SSL certificate for around $5 per month.
Multiple Languages	While it wasn’t obvious as to whether Web.com supports other languages, it seems this is a relatively easy coding matter. More research is needed, or let Web.com do this for you.
Mobile Optimization	While the Web.com templates are not mobile friendly, there is a mobile editing feature to ensure a successful display on mobile devices.
CDN Technology	In place of CDN technology, Web.com partners with Network Solutions to offer comparable enhanced DNS services.

Plans & Pricing

No pricing or plan information was available on the front pages of the website, but Web.com offers four various pricing plans.

Pricing Plans Offered

Website Builder. 1st Month $1.95, Monthly $22.95/mo
Website + Marketing. 1st Month $2.95, Monthly $32.95/mo
Website + Marketing + eCommerce. 1st Month $3.95, Monthly $42.95/mo
Build It For Me. Free at first. $114.95 and up

Web.com offers fairly competitive pricing for the amount of features and services you receive, but the dollars can add up when you include hosting, add-ons, and plugins. This may be a website design company for bigger businesses that require hands-on services.

Consider the following factors regarding pricing:

Does it offer a free plan? Not exactly. The Build-It-For-Me plan starts out for free.
Are there any trial periods or do they require credit cards to join? It appears you need to pay a small fee for the first month, after which time you can cancel, with some extra effort.
How affordable are the premium packages compared to competitors? Web.com is competitive on the short list of website designers offering this scale of services. It won’t compete with the smaller, do-it-yourself website builders for basic to moderate websites.
Can you design professional web pages using only the free version? Not really.
Did payment fulfill on a monthly/yearly basis? A monthly payment plan is offered.

Customer Support

Web.com has a better-than-average reputation for their customer support services. There are a variety of support options from the website including a 1-800 number – unheard of in the website builder space.

As well, customers can click to send an email, visit a forum blog, find useful articles, and engage in small business summits. Response times seem to be good, and follow-up help adequates for most needs.

Ease of Use

As a comprehensive web design platform, ease of use is in the hands of skilled designers at Web.com. For those who decide to build their site, the playing field for website builders is so vast and simplified today that Web.com can no longer compete well in this market.

For advanced designers with experience, it is a more valuable tool to support high-end eCommerce and larger scale businesses. It’s won’t be easy for beginners. Below are some things to consider as you explore the various website builder options on the market:

The simplicity of Interface. The Web.com interface is not meant to be simple, except to those who have experience in the website design arena.

Suitable for Beginners / Advanced Users. There are other builders made for beginners. Web.com, while offering great template-based solutions, is best at the complete design and development solution for customers. Advanced users will find it easier and more versatile to meet business needs.

Retain Control Over The Website At All Times. Users get the absolute autonomy level they desire based on the subscription they choose.

In-Editor Help Provided. Some in-editor help is available along with a Website Coach (tutors) and some help options on the site.

Web.com is not exactly meant to simple. Most users can get by, but advanced users will be much more satisfied in Web.com’s usability.

Conclusion

Web.com is a website builder in a class of its own, making it difficult to compare with other website builders on the market. Best suited for those who want a company to build a website for them, Web.com is satisfactory. User reviews show it may not be the best for new designers attempting to create their site unless they have experience.

Web.com has been around a long time, with a huge following and extensive capability. In today’s website landscape, web designers have many options regarding website builders. What is unique about Web.com, is they are offering both types of design services (DIY and BIFM). Better at the higher end complete services, Web.com seems to be more suited to companies that need them to do the heavy lifting.

Take advantage of Web.com’s free build-it service or a low-cost first month to decide if this is the right choice for your business.

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The criteria for AWA Website Builders Score has been calculated based on the most valuable components required to build and manage a successful website.

34% Design & Customization
19% Features & Tools
16% Plans & Pricing
14% Easy Of Use
17% Customer Support

The calculations revealed for each component are based on the summation of actual customer reviews, usage reports, provider websites, user reviews and rankings, and available analytics. As an entrepreneur, blogger, or business owner, your requirements in these various categories may vary based on your personal or business needs and your long-term goals.