Did you know that there are over 1.24 billion websites worldwide? Having an online presence is crucial to your business’ sustainability.
You have probably seen the influx of bloggers in recent years and wondered how it all works out. Web hosting is an online service that allows you to publish your website on their servers.
Web hosting companies charge a fee that is payable monthly or annually, depending on your subscription. The services range in terms of server space, email addresses, subdomains, shopping cart, e-commerce page, and network security.
Interested in learning what is web hosting and how does it work? Read more below.
What Is Web Hosting And How Does It Work?
To better understand web hosting, it is important to know the basic terminology associated with it. This will ensure confusion is left out of the picture.
Servers
These are computers that primarily serve a storage purpose. They are set up to store your website details, and they can be physical or virtual (cloud servers). The physical servers have to be online 24/7 for your website to be up and running.
Domains
A domain is the name of a website. The domain is what helps visitors identify your website online; for instance, Yahoo’s domain is www.yahoo.com. It is also commonly known as a website address.
Top-Level Domains (TLDs)
Have you ever wondered why some websites end with .com, .net, or .au? The last bit of the website address is the domain. Some domains are more valued than others.
The .com suffix is a top-level domain while .uk (United Kingdom suffix) is a middle-level domain and .co.za (South Africa suffix) is a low-level domain.
Subdomains
A subdomain is like a branch of a website. If you have a main website and would like to set up a blog, you can use a subdomain to do so. This would be like a smaller arm of your website.
Content Management Systems (CMSs)
These are software or apps that enable you to manage the content on your website. If you need to post content regularly and monitor the visitors’ metrics for marketing purposes, you can do so using content management systems.
Bandwidth
The allotted space on a server determines the bandwidth. It allows you to send and receive emails as well as post photos, videos, and forms. The larger your bandwidth, the more intricate your website can be.
Uptime
This stands for the total amount of time your website is up and running online. It is dependent on the company’s servers’ running time.
Benefits of Website Hosting
While it is possible to set up your server and host a public website, it tends to be complicated, insecure, and limited in terms of additional features that you would have to develop yourself. The hosting website template is also better looking than a self-programmed option for a beginner.
Using a website hosting server, on the other hand, tends to give you options that will not only make your life easier, but it will also be cheaper in the long run. Benefits include better security, better website performance, support from hosting experts, additional features and resources.
They also tend to have dedicated networks for website hosting, which means your website is more likely to be accessible as compared to if you do it yourself.
Hosting Plans
Website hosting companies such as Maple-Hosting tend to have a variety of packages with different features and price points. If you need to set up a blog, then most of the basic starter packages will suit your needs unless you need to run a webinar as this will require a larger bandwidth.
Pick a hosting plan that will suit your needs. What you need to post on your website and its purpose determines the package you should choose.
If you are setting up a website for e-commerce shopping, then you will have to fork out money for the most comprehensive package at your price point. Going for a lower bandwidth when you have a lot of traffic to your website will cause it to crash from time to time.
An informative website for a startup or business can be hosted comfortably using a mid-price hosting plan.
It all depends on the bandwidth needed for the email addresses and the content you intend to post on the site.
A Website Hosting Guide For Choosing A Provider
The wide array of website hosting companies on the market right now gives you several advantages. You get to enjoy competitive market prices, get a service provider who will prioritize your website needs, and you can negotiate and/or customize your package.
The fact that it is possible to transfer your website domain from one web hosting company to another means that they always have to be on top of their game in price and service.
Be sure to look at online reviews before you select your preferred hosting company. Also, compare the features from different companies to get the best value for your money. Look at their track record in providing support as you will need it if you are not tech-savvy.
Lastly, look at the company’s uptime. Accessibility is key for any website to flourish. It also plays a huge role in determining your company’s credibility. If your website is not accessible online, the chance of people trusting your business is affected negatively.
The ideal rate is 90-100%.
How To Get Web Hosting
If you are still asking yourself “what is web hosting and how does it work?”, visit the website hosting company of your choice to learn more. Before hosting your website, you will need to set up an account and log in. Then, select the hosting plan of your choice and pay for it.
If the service provider offers website building services, pick a theme and design for your website, then go ahead and publish it. To learn more about website hosting, view the rest of our blog.