GitHub Pages is very convenient as a static site hosting service and is used by many developers and bloggers. However, it’s not the optimal choice for all projects. This article explains in detail when you should not use GitHub Pages.
1. Site Migration Can Be Difficult
Since GitHub Pages specializes in hosting static sites, migration can become difficult when dynamic content or specific server-side functions are needed. For example, if you’re building a site using a CMS (Content Management System) or hosting an application that requires a database, GitHub Pages cannot accommodate this. In such cases, you’ll need to migrate to another hosting service later, and this process can be complex and time-consuming.
2. Not Using a Custom Domain May Make It Harder to Increase Page Views
While GitHub Pages allows you to set a custom domain, the default is to use a subdomain in the format username.github.io. If setting up a custom domain is troublesome or you neglect to do it, it can negatively affect SEO (Search Engine Optimization) and brand recognition. Without a custom domain, search engine rankings may be lower, making it harder to increase page views (PV), which risks hindering site growth.
3. VPS or Shared Hosting is Recommended if You Can Make an Initial Investment
If you have room for initial investment or need a project that requires higher flexibility and functionality, it’s wise to consider using VPS (Virtual Private Server) or shared hosting. These hosting services offer advantages such as:
- Complete Server Management: You can configure the server, install software, and customize.
- Dynamic Content Support: You can use server-side languages like PHP, Python, Ruby and databases (MySQL, PostgreSQL, etc.).
- Scalability: You can expand resources in response to increased traffic.
These benefits improve project scalability and flexibility, making long-term site operation easier.
Summary
GitHub Pages is very convenient for static site hosting because it’s easy and cost-free, but it’s not the optimal choice for all projects. When dynamic content is needed, or when SEO measures and brand recognition improvement are priorities, we recommend considering other hosting services. If initial investment is possible, using VPS or shared hosting will allow you to enjoy higher flexibility and scalability.