2024 is coming to an end — just a little longer, and we’ll welcome the new year, 2025. What will it bring us? We hope for positive changes both globally and in Ukraine. Above all, we await Victory and believe that the coming year will mark a turning point in this war.
Throughout this year, we continued to work on development — improving the control panel, modernizing servers, and introducing new useful features. In our forward movement, we always take user requests into account — many changes were implemented based on your feedback.
We want to note that all our important updates are published in the “News” section on the website and in the Telegram channel. Subscribe to stay updated!
Today, we’ll share all the main events and achievements of Cityhost.ua throughout the year.
- System and Technical Updates
- Our Social Activities
- Changes in Ukraine's Domain System
- Cityhost in Numbers for 2024
System and Technical Updates
We continue implementing updates to both the system and our server infrastructure to ensure our services remain as high-quality and reliable as possible. Here’s just a part of these upgrades.
Completed Equipping Hosting Servers with Modern NVMe Drives
We are purposefully improving our hosting servers to provide high performance — speed, stability, and uninterrupted services.
One of the key steps in modernization was equipping all servers with modern NVMe drives. These drives significantly outperform their predecessors in terms of read and write speed, making them more efficient and reliable.
We plan to complete the migration of all hosting accounts to the updated servers by the end of January 2025.
Added MySQL 8.0 to Our Hosting
We have added support for MySQL 8.0 on some hosting servers. Why not all? Although this database management system version was introduced back in 2018, its active adoption remains limited. This is because some popular content management systems are still unstable with it. To avoid potential disruptions, earlier versions of MySQL have been retained on some servers.
You can check which version is used on the server hosting your site in your control panel.
If you wish to switch to MySQL 8.0 and your server supports this version, contact technical support — we will assist with the migration.
We plan to gradually increase the number of servers with MySQL 8.0 as compatibility with client-used software improves and based on your requests.
Read also: What was the year 2023 like for Cityhost.ua — Year in Review
Introduced the Ability to Rate Technical Support
Now you can rate every interaction with technical support. After a chat session or ticket is completed, the system will prompt you to leave feedback. All ratings are carefully reviewed by the support department manager to analyze the quality of operator responses and improve team performance.
Restored Bonuses for Reviews on Google Maps, Facebook, and Hostings.info
We have reinstated the bonus program that allows you to earn credits for reviews. By leaving a review about us on Google Maps, you’ll receive 100 UAH credited to your Cityhost account balance. For reviews on Facebook and Hostings.info, we offer 50 UAH each.
These promotions can be combined. In just a few minutes, you can earn up to 200 UAH to use for extending our services. All promotion details are available in your control panel.
Continued Providing Licensed Windows Server OS with Default Ukrainian Version
Cityhost is an official Microsoft SPLA partner, which allows us to offer clients servers with a licensed Windows Server operating system. This year, we successfully renewed this status, among the first hosting companies to do so. What’s more, we made the Ukrainian version of the system the default, so you can get a localized server effortlessly.
Such a server is an excellent choice for those working with .NET Framework-based programs, using Microsoft SQL Server for database management, or needing to install accounting software — most of which are compatible with Windows.
This operating system is available on both VPS and dedicated servers.
Added NEXT.JS and NUXT.JS Frameworks to Hosting
Good news for developers — we have implemented support for major frameworks directly on our hosting. In 2022, we started with NODE.JS, and now NEXT.JS and NUXT.JS have joined. You can find instructions for launching them at this link.
If you’d like us to implement similar features for other frameworks, feel free to contact support.
Enhanced Hosting Server Security
We have updated the security system of our servers and completely discontinued the use of older TLS 1.0/1.1 protocols and cryptographic algorithms that had potential vulnerabilities. Instead, we have implemented the latest versions of TLS 1.2/1.3, which meet the most modern Internet security standards.
This update provides additional protection for our clients' websites against potential cyber threats. With these new protocols, data transmission is faster, security is at the highest level, and the algorithms are more resistant to cryptographic attacks. Your websites can now pass various security tests and achieve top scores.
Introduced New Convenient Features in the Payment System
We strive to automate every step of ordering and renewing services, making the process simple and transparent. This year, we added three new useful options:
- Created templates for invoices for legal entities. Upon the first completion of the payment form, the system saves all the legal entity's details, so you don’t have to re-enter them each time.
- Added QR codes for easy payment through PrivatBank. Now you can scan them directly from your computer screen to make a payment conveniently through your bank.
- Updated the Telegram bot, which now allows you to pay for services and top up your balance directly without accessing the control panel.
Added DNS Setup Templates for Google, Facebook, and Prom
The control panel now includes ready-made presets for quickly configuring domains for the following services:
- Google Search Console
- Google Workspace
- Google Sites
- Facebook Business
- Prom Marketplace
These templates greatly simplify the process of configuring DNS records to work with popular marketing, analytics, and online sales platforms.
Created a Set of Filters for Simplified Dedicated Server Selection
Choosing a dedicated server has become even easier — filters allow you to find the right server based on important client criteria. Since we offer nearly 1000 servers for rent, this feature is indispensable for those looking for a dedicated server (DS).
You can filter by processor manufacturer, RAM size, number and type of drives, price, and additional equipment. There’s also a "Hardware Search" field — use it if you’re looking for a specific model.
Added Support for Newer Operating System Versions for VPS
Users of virtual servers now have access to two new Linux OS versions — Fedora 39 and Fedora 40. You can install the desired version when ordering or reinstalling the OS for your VPS. Learn how to reinstall the operating system on a virtual server with the provided instructions.
Added Convenient Search in the File Manager
Our file manager now features a convenient search bar! You can easily locate files and folders both in a selected directory and in all nested folders. Searching is possible not only by file name but also by the content within documents.
Introduced Website Transfer Function Between Accounts
This year, we added a highly requested feature to the control panel: the ability to transfer websites between accounts. Clients can now transfer not only domains, hosting, and servers but also individual websites between different accounts.
Optimized Automatic Domain Pointing to Hosting
We have optimized the logic of automatic domain setup. The process of pointing a domain to hosting is now simpler and more reliable thanks to improvements in DNS record handling. This helps avoid common issues, such as email being marked as spam due to duplicate SPF records.
Additionally, DKIM records for emails are now added automatically, along with the necessary A and AAAA records for domains and subdomains. Any deleted or modified records can be quickly restored using the corresponding buttons in the DNS section.
Improved Website Backup Restoration Process
With this update, the number of steps required to extract a backup archive on hosting has been reduced. The system now automatically creates the website during backup extraction if it was deleted or creates the corresponding folder if the web resource exists but the folder was removed. This greatly simplifies recovery after hosting cleanup or accidental file deletion.
Increased Concurrent Process Limits for Hosting Users
The number of concurrent processes on hosting for users has been increased eightfold. As a result, server performance and script processing speeds have significantly improved.
Fully Automated Virtual Server Setup on Linux
The VPS configuration process is now fully automated: the system independently installs the operating system, allocates disk space and memory according to selected parameters, and configures the control panel. The entire process takes only about 10 minutes from payment — 12 times faster than before!
This update not only accelerates server deployment but also allows our specialists to focus on other tasks.
Our Social Activities
We remain true to our principles, actively affirming our pro-Ukrainian stance and advancing the core directions established at the start of the full-scale invasion. Additionally, we strive to share engaging and useful information with our users in various formats.
Promoting the Derussification of Ukrainian Domains
In the spring of 2024, the administrator of the national UA domain, "Hostmaster", organized a campaign to support the correct Kyiv domain kyiv.ua, which was joined by 29 Ukrainian registrars, including Cityhost.ua. From May 1 for three months, each participant informed users about the importance of abandoning Russified domains like kiev.ua and transitioning to proper Ukrainian domain names.
As part of the campaign, we offered discounts not only for the Kyiv domain but also for all Ukrainian-language domains, making them available for registration at Cityhost.ua for just 99 UAH.
We also conducted active information campaigns in the media to ensure as many people as possible learned about the initiative. Publications highlighted alternatives to outdated Russified domains, many of which are entirely new and unfamiliar to website owners.
During these three months, the kyiv.ua domain showed impressive growth — you can read more about the campaign results in this post.
This is just one of the many activities within the derussification of Ukrainian domains initiated by Cityhost.ua in the summer of 2022. Over this time, joint efforts across the domain market have yielded results, with more users opting for Ukrainian-language regional domains. However, much work remains ahead.
Read also: What 2022 was like for Cityhost: results and achievements
Continuing to Provide Free Domains and Hosting for Public, Charitable, and Volunteer Organizations
In April 2022, we launched a support program for public and charitable organizations, enabling many institutions to receive free domain and hosting for their websites. These include schools, universities, libraries, regional and municipal organizations, and charitable and volunteer foundations.
In less than two years, the program has provided assistance totaling over 360 000 UAH. You can read more about this program in a dedicated post.
Participated in the Resolution of a Domain Dispute Under UA-DRP for the First Time
The UA-DRP procedure offers a convenient way to resolve domain disputes without resorting to court. It involves multiple parties, including the complainant, respondent, registrar (who provides domain information), and the commission that issues a verdict.
This year, we became part of such an international dispute involving the unfair use of a domain registered through the Cityhost.ua system. The disputed domain’s owner used the name of a well-known German trademark to sell goods without the trademark owner’s consent. After reviewing the complaint, justice was served, and the domain was transferred to the trademark owner in accordance with procedure rules.
We described the entire complaint and review process in the article: Punishment for Cybersquatting — Cityhost Participated in the Resolution of a Domain Dispute Under UA-DRP.
Launched a New Blog Section — "Stories of Our Users"
This year, we started introducing readers of our blog to Cityhost.ua clients. This section already features several fascinating stories about various people united by one thing — their websites are hosted on our domains and hosting. Charitable funds helping people with multiple sclerosis, a festival dedicated to Taras Shevchenko, a math teacher learning web development at 70, volunteers creating supplies for the frontlines, and many other interesting individuals — they are all our clients. We are proud of this.
We recommend reading several articles from this section to learn more about the people collaborating with us.
Introduced a New Social Media Series — "Cats in Cases"
Another engaging initiative, but this time on social media — "Cats in Cases" features short videos analyzing specific situations. We select common cases from tech support experiences — questions and challenges frequently faced by users. These cases are illustrated with cat memes, making them not only useful but also entertaining to watch.
The videos are shared across all our social networks: Telegram channel, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok. Watch one of these videos — we’re sure it will lift your mood.
Created a TikTok Account
Speaking of TikTok — we’ve launched an account where we share interesting videos, tips, and sketches. It’s still young but growing and filling up with new content. In the meantime, subscribe to support our TikTok journey.
Continuing to Run Our Blog with Useful and Interesting Articles
Our blog, active since 2019, continues to grow with fresh and engaging articles. Topics range from website development, SEO, marketing, and self-improvement to technical aspects of our services and instructions for various tools.
This year, we published 60 articles. Among them, we especially recommend reading the following:
- «Allowing the creation of new Russian-language domains, we thereby permit the idea of the re-communization of Ukraine to live on» — an interview with UA national domain administrator Dmitry Kohmanyuk
- Stories of Our Users: How the Warrior Brotherhood Foundation Turns Up the Heat on Occupiers in Hotspots
- What is Clickbait and How to Combat It
- How to Independently Create a Website with Online Courses Using a CMS
- Artificial Intelligence — Friend, Lover, Psychologist
- What is a website aggregator: types of aggregators, earnings calculation, step-by-step instructions of create
- How to Use Google Adsense for Website Monetization
- Google Analytics 4 for Beginners: What is GA4 and How to Use It
Changes in Ukraine's Domain System
These changes don’t solely pertain to Cityhost’s processes — it’s more accurate to say we influence them, and they influence us. These are global transformations in Ukraine’s domain system, marking an essential area of our work.
Registrations Open in New Regional Domains
On February 1, 2024, registration began in two domain zones of Zakarpattia — zakarpattia.ua and uzhhorod.ua. This event is significant as the westernmost region of Ukraine was the last to align its domains with Ukrainian transliteration rules. Previously, it only had Russified and abbreviated domain zones (uzhgorod.ua and uz.ua).
As of early 2022, many regions lacked proper Ukrainian domains, but the full-scale invasion accelerated the Ukrainization process. Over two years, numerous new domain zones were launched for various regions, culminating on February 1 with the introduction of the new Zakarpattia domains.
End of Registrations in Some Russified Domain Zones
Simultaneously, the reverse process has been actively underway — closing registrations in Russified domain zones, which began in 2023. On May 1, new domain registrations were halted in chernigov.ua, chernovtsy.ua, khmelnitskiy.ua, kirovograd.ua, and rovno.ua.
This work continues, with the announced closure of registrations from January 1, 2025, in cherkassy.ua, uzhgorod.ua, zhitomir.ua, lugansk.ua, and zaporizhzhe.ua.
The long-term plan is to stop registration in all domain zones with city names transliterated from Russian.
Read also: Register correct Ukrainian domains and connect them to the website without losing traffic
UA-DRP Procedure Now Covers Most Ukrainian Domains
The UA-DRP dispute resolution procedure has been operating in Ukraine since 2019 and is gradually expanding to private third-level domain names within the national .UA domain. In 2024, approximately 30 domain zones were added to the list, meaning the procedure now covers almost all Ukrainian domains.
Now, owners of such domain names can defend their rights not only in court but also through the World Intellectual Property Organization, which is significantly faster, cheaper, and simpler.
For more details on the expansion of the UA-DRP procedure, read this news article.
Cityhost in Numbers for 2024
To wrap up, we’d like to share some statistics. It’s heartening to see new users join us each year, using our services to launch new projects. Each hosting package, domain, or server represents a personal story of business, volunteerism, an engaging blog, or learning website development skills. Behind these numbers are people with plans and aspirations.
New users: 3222
New domains: 4037
New hosting accounts: 2459
New virtual servers: 446
New dedicated servers: 57
New storage solutions: 399
Happy New Year! Thank you for being with us this year. Together, we’ve achieved so much: improving services, launching new features, and supporting your projects at the highest level.
We wish you a 2025 filled with new accomplishments, stability, and prosperity. May your homes be filled with peace, happiness, and warmth. Thank you for choosing us!
Yours truly, Cityhost