Understanding the Relationship Between Bluehost and HostGator: Ownership and Separate Operations

Many users might wonder if Bluehost and HostGator are under the same ownership, given their similar service offerings and competitive nature in the web hosting industry. In this article, we will delve into the ownership structure of both companies and how they operate as distinct entities within a larger corporate ecosystem.

No, Bluehost is Not Owned by HostGator

While both Bluehost and HostGator are web hosting companies, they do not fall under the same ownership. Bluehost and HostGator, though operated as separate brands, share a common parent company, Endurance International Group (EIG). This means that they operate with their own unique services, features, and branding.

Bluehost and HostGator's Ownership and Operation

Bluehost was acquired by Endurance International Group in 2010, marking the beginning of its journey under the EIG banner. Similarly, HostGator was added to the EIG portfolio in 2012. These acquisitions have solidified EIG's position as a major player in the web hosting industry. Despite their shared ownership, Bluehost and HostGator maintain their own distinct identities and service offerings. This ensures that both companies can cater to different clienteles and meet their unique needs effectively.

EIG: A Leading Information-Technology Firm

EIG is a recognized player in the information-technology sector with over 2000 employees. The company specializes in web hosting and operates numerous other hosting brands under its portfolio. These include well-known names such as iPage, Fatcow, Dotster, PowWeb, Netfirms, and BigRock. While EIG owns and operates these companies, it does not mean that all services provided by these brands are identical or of the same quality. Users have reported varying experiences with the services, often highlighting the differences in quality and support.

Considering Other Hosting Options

Given the varying quality of service provided by EIG’s subsidiaries, it is advisable to explore other hosting options. Companies like FastComet, GreenGeeks, and managed VPS providers like Cloudways offer superior performance, security, and customer support. Paying a premium for less-than-stellar hosting services is not advisable when there are better alternatives available.

Ownership Structure and Brand Portfolio

EIG is not just a web hosting company; it is a parent company that has fostered a diverse portfolio of web hosting brands. This structure allows EIG to benefit from cross-promotion and innovation, while each brand operates with its autonomous business model. Currently, EIG owns and operates over 60 web hosting brands. Some of the prominent names in this portfolio include HostGator, BlueHost, HostMonster, iPage, FatCow, JustHost, Arvixe, A Small Orange, and HostNine. This extensive range of brands enables EIG to offer a wide array of web hosting solutions to cater to different market segments and customer preferences.

Conclusion

While Bluehost and HostGator are both owned by Endurance International Group, this relationship does not translate into shared ownership or identical service offerings. Each company operates as a distinct brand with its own set of services and features. Users should carefully consider their hosting needs and explore the array of hosting options available, including alternatives like FastComet, GreenGeeks, and Cloudways, to ensure they receive the best possible service.