Host uses old version – that okay?

Should I have gone with a host that allows you to install WP on your own so that I always have the latest version?

I’d say “definitely.”

Or is having a preinstalled WP from your host just fine, but limited?

More than just limited. Almost all updates of WP include security fixes. Who wants to invite hacks?

Thanks, handy – I asked them about that. The Tech said that the only way someone could hack into it was if I have out my password. Which didn’t make sense after reading about the security updates. He said they use the 2.0.4 version from 2006 because upgrading causes so many problems. Of course, I can see that from the forums. He said they had no plans to update that he knew of.
So now can I ask, I want to start a website and use WP as my CMS (wow I have learned a lot of language since starting this endeavor). Looks like I should change hosts to one that more supports WP like the ones you list or the ones that Sabin-Wilson suggests in ‘Dummies’ (just bought and reading). But do they give you more memory to activate plugins I need?

“He said they use the 2.0.4 version from 2006 because upgrading causes so many problems.”

On the basis of that remark alone I’d find a new host. The reported problems with upgrading WP has nothing at all to do with WP. The causes can be many – corrupted file during download, corrupted file during upload, neglecting to deactivate plugins etc.

Stay away from silly automated programs like Fantastico and learn to use a reliable ftp client like Filezilla.

“He said they use the 2.0.4 version from 2006 because upgrading causes so many problems.”

On the basis of that remark alone I’d find a new host.

I agree, totally. New host time. They’re steering you down the wrong freeway.

Yes, I used Filezilla (easy to use) for the cforms and SEO all-in-one but they didn’t work because of the memory the host provides. Only 8 for each customer. The cforms needed 16M. Is that something I should investigate about each host I look into? It seems that at every turn there is a hidden wall that blocks me from continuing.
I think I remember that I have to request a host transfer. I just don’t want to and have something else come up. My website idea is so simple but these are the things that are hampering me…well, that and the little ones needing constant attention.

This assumes that when you say ‘subscribed’ that you have your own hosted WordPress blog–not the one provided by 1and1.com as their blogging tool.

I read this on another post. So, if I use their WP then I can’t move the blog to another host? Only if I downloaded the WP myself? Does that mean if I switch host, I need to start over? Which is fine since the WP blog is blank. Still trying to figure out plugins, templates, etc before launching the site.

I will look into switching hosts. Thanks for you time. Deploy