A strained economy also makes it impractical to purchase gifts that won't be used. When folks are struggling to pay for food and utilities, it doesn't make sense to purchase another silk tie or basket of bath beads that gets tucked away in a drawer.

The strained economy and stressful environment make holiday shopping a task rather than a pleasure. Instead of spending money you don't have to face crowds you don't want to see, give your favorite people the gift of web hosting.

Web hosting is a perfect present for the people you care about. If your friends and family already have a website, you can treat them to a free year of web hosting with a reliable server. It's a gift that keeps on giving all year long that the recipient will actually use and value.

If your friends, family and co-workers do not have a website already, treat them to a domain name and web hosting. Various web packages make it easy for anyone to put their own website together in just a few hours.

Consider the different ways the people you care about can use a domain name, website and web hosting package:

• during tough economic times, people can develop a website to earn a second income to help make ends meet;

• if a family has a stay-at-home spouse, the person has a chance to earn their own income toward the support of the family;

• a website can be used for personal reasons, such as sharing photos or information with other loved ones;

• for co-workers, a website can be used to enhance their current work responsibilities or highlight their special skills for increased profits in the new year;

• websites can also be used a blogs so people of all ages can write about topics of their choice for a side income; and

• an unemployed person will appreciate the opportunity to create their own business and earn money without making an initial cash investment they probably don't have.

This year, avoid crowds and overspending and shop online instead. Web hosting is a thoughtful, valuable gift everyone will use and appreciate all year long.