Database: A database is simply a file which contains organized and structured information such as other files, pictures, music and more. The purpose of a database is to allow users access to information in a secure digital way by means of a login. A typical example is a self hosted WordPress blog which requires a database Interserver to function.
Are they taking a reasonable amount of time to reply you? Generally, paid service will receive faster support response as compared to the free service. However, there are a few exceptional cases. I have both free and paid web hosting plan. To my surprise, I receive support response within 15 minutes from the free plan. On the other hand, the paid plan needs 2 - 4 hours to provide a response. Thus, try to test the speed of the support before you commit to any plan as you do not want to wait for a long time when you need assistance.
Pricing tip: If you have not acquired a domain name or want to add another, then some packages include free domain with hosting. They can be a good bargain.
In the world of web hosting, there are also things that are free, like free web hosting services. This happens when a web master doesn't really pay anything to the host for the services that he receives. With the numerous hosting companies today, free web hosting is one of the available options at your disposal. Usually hosting companies offer dedicated hosting for nothing at all, but nowadays PHP, DS, and shared hosting are also included in the broad genres.
These are basic tools that helps in building websites, gauging website popularity and statistics and site enhancements included in most hosting packages.
This is normally not an issue as all the features are being displayed on the website before you sign up for a plan. However, you need to know what you need. For example: you are going to install a third-party web application, check here so you have to find out whether the server can support such web application or web hosting provider allows you to do so.