What parameters define a reliable hosting provider?

[King Belieal]

Everyone site owner is always advised to use a reliable hosting provider. But what are the parameters that define a reliable hosting provider? What do you check for to establish that a hosting provider is reliable?

 

[Laurentta]

A reliable hosting provider should be able to ensure good performance. A reliable hosting provider should also be able to ensure security and allow easy access to one's website for update and maintenance.