Who can suggest a simple reliable mainstream host for a shared server
 

have a friend who is making a simple site...basically just contact info...samples of their work
that sort of thing.

an online business card or flyer say

they just need a shared or virtual server sort of thing

but will need basic help from time to time...

i see some for like 4 bucks...but if someone knows a more reliable one that is not too expensive i will send them there

Just host it for him? if you are not up for that, I can hook him up for a few bucks...

Tell him try Hostgator, I used them years ago for some shared hosting they were ok, perfect for his needs.

seems like it could be lots of work

i will set that up though if you are cool

it is their first time ever having a site

Stay away from hostgator... they used to be ok but not now. Try 247host, they allow both adult and mainstream sites and they are trustworthy. I host sites with them and I am happy. Check out my signature for a 35% off coupon code.

I missed the "will need basic help from time to time" detail, so probably wouldn't be worthwhile, it will probably turn into "lots of work" like you said for no $$... so if they are expecting hosting + help running the site for $5/month, I'll have to pass...

Requires knowledge of git and maybe markdown but https://pages.github.com/ might be worth exploring.

linode.com

No one is going to help him with his website for $5 a month :2 cents::2 cents::2 cents:

Seems any host will do for the web hosting part tho