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eDiscovery Primer: Hosting Agreements – Part 1

There are many issues that need to be considered when it comes to hosting agreements. Known most popularly as the “terms and conditions” website page that users must click through before joining or logging in, this simple agreement defines the terms by which two parties elect to do business together. It’s important to have a firm grasp on common hosting arrangements before agreeing, as any agreement may impact future e-discovery efforts. Here are some common questions and answers.

 

What is hosting?

A hosting provider is entrusted with data storage and provision from its clients, and hosting is the maintenance of that data. The end user is able to keep and access that data without worrying about its infrastructure or management.

What is a hosting agreement?

The hosting agreement represents the terms of service that binds the hosting provider and the end user. For a website, these terms are often presented online during an initial registration process. It’s important to read these terms thoroughly to learn what level of protection is offered, or if the terms leave the user vulnerable.

How do I find a good hosting provider?

The answer to this question depends on the specific needs of the user. There are many aspects to consider when looking at hosting providers not the least of which include storage capacity, security practices and data accessibility. It’s a good idea to compare a few different providers to find one that’s the right fit.

Where does the hosting provider store information?

Providers can maintain data in-house (often in the cloud) or outsource storage, but the specifics should be outlined in the hosting agreement either way. Often, outsourcing will require a secondary agreement between the provider and the vendor.

Look for additional information in eDiscovery Primer: Hosting Agreements – Part 2. If you would like more information about eDiscovery or how TERIS solutions can assist you, please contact us!

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