I am currently looking for a new hosting company for my business. We are a design and development company and have been recommending WestHost to our clients for the last several years. However due to some changes they have implemented in the last year, we have decided to start referring people elsewhere.

Most of our clients need affordable Linux hosting with the basics. SSH is also a definite must and 24/7 support (preferably phone, as well as email/ticket system) that won't cost extra. An easy to use and understand control panel would be nice as well.

I have heard good things about HostGator, and am wondering if anyone has experience with them. The prices seem right and they have everything we need. We are also thinking of purchasing a dedicated server with them for a specific project that's going to require one.

I don't know if I am asking this in the right place, if this is not welcome here please let me know.