In this IT-driven industry, it is a given that more and more companies, big or small, take time to invest in IT infrastructure, tools and systems. Establishing a proper electronic mail architecture and setup is just one of the many investments these companies make.

In Canada, Information Technology is not as advanced as those in more developed countries like US and Australia. Despite this situation, a variety of email and web hosting services are being offered to businesses and firms of all scales. In the Ontario area, some of the web hosting companies that provide this kind of service include Computer Engineering Incorporated, Inquent Technologies, 5Fish Incorporated, and Web Host For Me. However, companies who want to avail the services of web hosting companies must have a firm grasp of email web hosting basics before availing of the service.

There are basically two types of web and email hosting services: UNIX and Windows. In most cases, UNIX is the cheaper selection because it is an open source type of technology. Windows, on the other hand, require the purchase of licenses and other tools that of course entail additional expenses. Windows charge higher, with platforms ranging from $12 - $30CAD whereas for a minimum of $8, one could already avail of UNIX email or web email hosting platform in Canada. Aside from its low cost and high efficiency, network engineers agree that UNIX platforms are more flexible and easier to maintain.

Thus, what current statistics show is not surprising: more and more companies in the US and in Canada are taking that leap to UNIX platforms.