The new platform features ASP.Net and SQL Server, as well as free antivirus and anti-spam tools. It includes an extensive control panel environment allowing customers to easily manage Web sites, email and databases. For small businesses and developers, WebFusion also provides an e-commerce engine and increased Web space and bandwidth.

WebFusion says the architecture used for the new Windows hosting packages will support the introduction of new products and future growth. The company launched the new service with support from Microsoft and through consultation with existing customers. WebFusion's Windows shared hosting is available in four packages ? home, SoHo, business and developer ? and ranges from £5.95 to £24.99 per month. The packages come equipped with a one-hour set up time, 99.9 percent uptime and a 30-day guarantee.

"Whether our customers choose Windows or Linux, we 're able to provide comprehensive features that can be easily configured to meet their requirements at affordable prices," says Mike Read, CEO of PIPEX Communications. "Home users, small businesses and developers are all setting high standards in the service they demand from their Web hosting company. This new service provides a feature-rich set of products that is accessible to the home user but can also scale up to handle the demands of hosting a commercial Web site with full e-commerce functionality."