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Network Solutions is a legacy internet service provider best known for domain registration and web hosting that has expanded into the site-building market. Its website builder is a straightforward, section-based, drag-and-drop tool bundled with hosting, SSL security, and business email. It provides a no-nonsense path to getting a basic online presence up and running without requiring design or coding knowledge.
It delivers a no-frills approach to creating business websites. While it may not compete with the top platforms, it works for small businesses looking for simplicity. The platform clearly prioritizes ease of use over advanced functionality.
We spent thousands of hours testing 140+ website builders. We’ve found that while Network Solutions meets basic needs, it falls short of modern expectations. I find Network Solutions best suited for absolute beginners, micro-business owners, consultants, and local service providers who need a basic, functional website without a steep learning curve. It is tailored for non-technical users who value having domain, hosting, email, and editing all managed under a single dashboard.
For users who need more robust features, however, Wix remains our pick for the best website builder.
Network Solutions: Pricing & plans
Network Solutions uses aggressive introductory promotional pricing for the first year, which increases significantly upon renewal:
- Website Plan (approx. $1.99–$4.99/mo intro, renews at ~$15.99–$16.99/mo): Includes the section-based website builder, a free domain for 1 year, an SSL certificate, 3 months of professional email, and 1 hour of design support.
- Website + Marketing Plan (approx. $3.99–$7.99/mo intro, renews at ~$21.99/mo): Adds AI copywriting, appointment scheduling, social media management tools (SocialBooster), and search engine listing tools.
- eCommerce Plan (approx. $9.99–$13.99/mo intro, renews at ~$29.99/mo+): Unlocks online store capabilities, inventory management, multiple payment processing options, and marketplace selling features.
Hidden Fees
As with many business solutions, if you take the headline price at face value, you could ultimately be in for a surprise. As mentioned, Network Solutions users may find the steep renewal price hike uncomfortable.The primary cost hurdle is the jump after the first billing cycle, where rates increase by up to 5x–8x.
You should also consider security and add-on upsells in your budget. Advanced site security, automated backup extensions, and specialized SEO listing services incur separate monthly fees. And you may find that paying extra for technical support is necessary. While standard phone and chat customer service are included, advanced technical troubleshooting or dedicated support services can carry extra charges.
Value Comparison
During its initial promotional period, Network Solutions offers competitive value for an all-in-one setup. However, when looking at long-term renewal rates, platforms like Wix, Hostinger, and GoDaddy deliver more advanced design capabilities, deeper marketing integrations, and better value for similar or lower monthly costs.
Real-world testing
During my 30-minute test build, Network Solutions proved easy to navigate. Starting from a pre-designed template, I customized a three-page site for a professional consulting firm.
The structured layout allowed me to quickly swap stock photos, insert custom text using the AI writer, and configure a basic contact form in about 15 minutes. However, attempting to push the layout beyond its built-in row structure proved challenging, as the editor prioritizes rigid alignment over custom layout positioning.
Editor
Network Solutions uses a section-based editor that provides drag-and-drop element repositioning within fixed structural parameters. It shines in the way that pre-designed blocks keep page elements aligned, ensuring responsive design across desktop and mobile screens without visual breaking.
Having said that, design flexibility is strictly constrained. You cannot place elements freely anywhere on the canvas, and switching to a new template requires rebuilding your site from scratch.
AI
The platform includes built-in AI tools for automated content generation and logo creation. Testing the AI text writer, it generated serviceable introductory paragraphs and service descriptions based on simple business prompts. While helpful for overcoming writer’s block, the output requires manual editing to add a distinct brand voice.
Features
Network Solutions provides essential website building features without unnecessary complexity. The platform includes over 150 templates, drag-and-drop editing, and mobile responsiveness. You’ll find basic SEO tools, SSL certificates, and integrated hosting. These features target small businesses needing professional-looking sites quickly.
The feature set works best for straightforward business websites. Restaurant owners, consultants, and service providers will find adequate tools. However, advanced users seeking sophisticated design options or extensive e-commerce capabilities may feel limited. The platform lacks advanced animations, complex layouts, or detailed customization options.
Network Solutions now also includes AI-powered tools like content writing and logo creation. These features help beginners overcome common obstacles. The AI writer generates website copy, while the logo builder creates basic brand graphics. These additions make the platform more accessible to complete novices.
Standout functionality includes all-in-one dashboard integration. Managing domain registration, web hosting, site editing, and professional email under a single platform account removes technical complexity. The platform also includes one hour of expert design assistance with the introductory builder packages, providing practical guidance for first-time builders.
|
Feature |
Details |
|
ECommerce |
Product listings, inventory tracking, and payment gateways (eCommerce plan) |
|
SEO tools |
Title tags, meta descriptions, and XML sitemaps |
|
Email marketing |
Built-in email tools and social media promotional managers |
|
AI site/Copy builder |
AI writing assistant and logo design tools |
|
Blogging |
Standard blogging and post scheduling functionality |
Security
Network Solutions provides basic security features but charges for advanced protection. All plans include free SSL certificates, which provide encryption for data travelling between your site and visitors. You also get Perfect Privacy to hide your personal information from WHOIS databases.
The company offers SiteLock Premium as an additional security service. This includes daily malware scans, automatic malware removal, and basic web application firewall protection. It also provides blacklist monitoring and a Content Delivery Network to speed up your site. However, these security features cost extra, unlike competitors who include comprehensive security in their base plans.
Support
Network Solutions provides multiple support channels with mixed results. You get 24/7 phone support and live chat, plus a comprehensive knowledge base. Phone support runs from 7 AM to midnight ET, seven days a week. Live chat operates Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 11 PM.
The quality varies significantly between support agents. Some users report helpful, patient staff who explain solutions clearly. Others encounter abrupt agents who seem reluctant to assist. This inconsistency makes support a gamble. The knowledge base offers hundreds of well-written articles with helpful screenshots. You can usually find answers quickly without contacting support.
Network Solutions includes one hour of expert design support with the basic plan. This helps beginners get started without struggling alone. The company also offers professional design services separately if you prefer hands-off website creation.
Network Solutions: Final verdict
Network Solutions website builder delivers on its core promise: simple website creation for small businesses. You get reliable hosting, decent templates, and helpful AI tools at competitive introductory prices. The all-in-one approach eliminates service juggling, while customer support provides mixed but generally adequate assistance.
However, significant renewal price increases, limited design flexibility, and basic security features may disappoint users seeking advanced functionality.
Competitor Alternatives Include:
- Choose Wix if: You want complete drag-and-drop creative control, advanced design tools, and a massive ecosystem of third-party integration apps.
- Choose Hostinger or GoDaddy if: You want quick, AI-guided site generation with transparent long-term renewal rates and stronger e-commerce tools.
- Choose Network Solutions if: You already use them for domain management and want a simple, no-frills website builder bundled under the same account.
Skip it if:
- You cannot accept steep price jumps upon annual contract renewal.
- You require pixel-precise layout customization, fluid animations, or complex web app integrations.
- You are building a large-scale e-commerce store with extensive product catalogs and multi-channel marketplace sync requirements.
Having said all that, I’d have to conclude that following my review, Network Solutions is ideal for beginners wanting straightforward business sites without technical complexity.
FAQs
Can I switch to a different template after building my site?
Unfortunately, you cannot easily switch templates in Network Solutions. Changing templates requires rebuilding your entire site from scratch. This means you should choose your template carefully from the start. Consider browsing all available templates before making your selection to avoid later regrets.
How does Network Solutions compare for SEO and marketing?
Network Solutions includes basic SEO tools like title tags, meta descriptions, and XML sitemaps in all plans. The Website + Marketing plan adds appointment scheduling, social media integration, and email marketing tools. The platform focuses on simplicity rather than advanced SEO features. For comprehensive marketing, you may need their professional digital marketing services, which cost extra.
What happens to my website if I don’t renew at the higher price?
Network Solutions requires renewal at standard rates after your promotional period ends. If you don’t renew, your website will eventually go offline and become inaccessible to visitors. The company typically provides grace periods and renewal notices before deactivation. However, pricing jumps from $1.99 to $16.99 monthly for the basic plan, so budget accordingly for year two.
Does Network Solutions include e-commerce features in all plans?
Ecommerce functionality requires the dedicated eCommerce plan at $9.99 monthly. The basic Website and Website + Marketing plans don’t include online store capabilities. The eCommerce plan allows unlimited products and selling on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Amazon, and eBay. If you plan to sell products online, factor this higher cost into your budget.
Can I use my own domain name with Network Solutions?
You can absolutely use an existing domain name with Network Solutions website builder. All plans include a free domain for one year, but you can connect your existing domain instead. The setup process is straightforward through your account dashboard. If you prefer keeping your current domain registrar, Network Solutions supports domain connection from other providers.
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