ColdFusion helps programmers and Web developers build and deploy powerful Web applications and Web services. Using the proven tag-based scripting built into the ColdFusion environment, Web application developers can easily harness the power of the Java platform without the complexity. Available for stand-alone installation or for deployment on industry-leading J2EE application servers, ColdFusion enables over 10,000 customers and hundreds of thousands of developers worldwide to deliver powerful Web applications in record time.

ColdFusion Web pages include tags written in ColdFusion Markup Language that simplify integration with databases and avoid the use of more complex languages like C++ to create translating programs. ColdFusion is the industry's leading cross-platform Web application server. With ColdFusion, Web developers can quickly develop and deliver a new generation of large-volume, transaction-intensive Web applications for everything from e-commerce to business automation and more. For large businesses that require complicated Internet applications and increased scalability, there is the Enterprise edition. On the other hand, the Standard edition is ideal for smaller companies that require less advanced applications.

Smaller businesses need not worry about which edition to buy, since they can lease the use of advanced ColdFusion services through their hosting companies. Most Web hosting companies that specialize in the Windows platform offer ColdFusion to their clients. This allows smaller organizations to quickly develop and deploy their own customized e-commerce or product management systems.

Choosing a ColdFusion host will involve various criteria. Many of these decisions can be made in consultation with a Web developer who will build your applications. A prospective customer, in conjunction with that Web developer, will want to consider the version of the application offered. Currently, the latest version is ColdFusion MX. Consumers will want to use the latest version of the application, as it will support the most advanced options and most databases.

Consumers, in conjunction with their Web developers, should also evaluate whether they need to use "high risk" ColdFusion tags within their applications. Many shared hosting providers will not allow the use of these tags because they present a security risk. Some tags can be used to locate, and then delete, important files from a server. As a result, the required use of most powerful tags might mean that a small business user may need a dedicated server to obtain full access to such programming power.

Along with security considerations, the server platform is especially relevant. Which platform to choose depends on the functionality and database needed for the application. The ColdFusion Application Server software has been tested with several platforms including Windows, Linux, and Sun.

The most important parts of the equation for any business purchasing ColdFusion hosting are three-fold: pricing, experience and support. Small businesses should only pay for services that they budgeted and can afford. Consumers should also know what the hosting firm's service is like.

Questions that should be addressed include:

The host should have a reputation for reliable service. The host should also be known for its accessible, helpful and knowledgeable technical support. Questions that should be asked about support include: