Hosting and Domain Name Registration Questions

[RKramkowski]

I've checked out several threads here, most notably the GoDaddy review thread and have several questions. I definitely see advantages in getting my domain names from one place and hosting at another. I also think I like the idea of going with one of the top-level registrars as listed with ICANN as opposed to a reseller. So here's my first set of questions about domain names.

Is it better to go with one of the registrars? Is it cheaper? Are there other benefits or reasons to do so? Regardless, if I split my domain name purchase from my hosting, how do I lock the name?

Now for the second set, about hosting:

What attributes / services should I be looking for in a hosting company? What sort of things or practices should I be looking out for? Does it make a difference whether I'm going to sell products, publish articles, start a forum? Are the considerations different for each type?

I know I am probably asking a lot of questions, but I didn't find answers anywhere yet.

Thanks in advance

[Lynn Terry]

[quickregister]

[Steve MacLellan]

[weblord]