Hosting is relatively cheap for what we do on Ham Radio. A virtual machine, which easily can host a DStar reflector is less than 10 bucks. Even if you have 2 virtual machines running, the costs aren’t bad. When you have 3 instances with backup storage and email hosting and web site hosting, the costs add up quickly.
I hate asking for money and I won’t force someone to look at a splash screen before entering the website. I also don’t like the advertisements that are easily accrued with terrible looking banners and nuisance pop-ups.
I have chosen to place a PayPal Donate button at the top of my web pages.
The button is simple and voluntary. No one is required to donate. I ask that you make a small donation if you feel compelled to do so; for instance, you like what I’m doing and want me to continue. It’s up to you.
I have created a PayPal account that is separate from my personal PayPal account so that there is no intermingling of money. 100% of donations will be applied to hosting across the platforms that I use for Ham Radio related servers, web servers, email servers, domain fees, etc.
I use the cheapest service provider possible that has the functionality required for our purposes, and I choose plans that will accommodate our needs without excess. So far I’ve done well enough to keep costs low enough that the XYL hasn’t “reminded” me about spending. I would like to keep doing what I’m doing without having to answer to the boss.
Any donation for any amount would be great!