Hosting: Possible to start with basic plan but move up to dedicated server?

Im starting a new website and Im expecting the it will be very popular after the first few months.

I dont want to pay for a dedicated server at first because I wont need it. Is it possible to host the site on a basic plan and then when all the traffic starts comming in will my host move me to a dedicated server?

Im worried about problems / downtime during the switch. Anyone have experience with this?

 

Yes that's possible but depends on hosting company. Shouldn't be a problem 'cause it's more money to them.

Don't have experience with this but there shouldn't be any downtime. And sometimes you have to pay for the transfer, depends on the hosting company again.

 

Talk to the specific hosting company, but I doubt it will be a problem.

There should be no problems transfering the site from basic to a dedicated unless the admins are idiots.

 

Sounds good.

In that case, can anybody reccomend a good provider if I want to move up to dedicated sometime?

 

I can recommend you;

Theplanet, FDC, Layered or EV1 Servers.

and you can see http://reviews.cnet.com/Most_popular_host/7014-6544_7-0.html

 

if budget is not a problem for you, then the above companies may suit you.

You can find some reviews and research on a particular host before you use them at http://www.webhostingtalk.com/

Im sure you can find what you need there.

 

Yes, it is certainly possible and most hosts would allow upgrade to a plan (though some webhosts do not allow downgrades) as long as they have a hosting package available for your needs.

and as long as it is the same provider, there should not be any downtime.