What exactly is web hosting?
Web hosting is an online service that lets you publish a website or web app on the Internet. When you sign up for hosting, you’re renting space on a server to store all the files and data your site needs to work.
A server is a physical computer that runs 24/7 so your website is always available. Your hosting provider keeps the server running, protects it from attacks, and delivers your content (text, images, files) from the server to your visitors’ browsers.
How does web hosting work?
When you create a website, you need a hosting company to give you server space. Your provider stores your files, media, and databases. When someone types your domain name in their browser, the server sends all the files needed to display your site.
You choose the hosting plan that fits your needs and pay for it—just like renting a house, you pay regularly to keep your site online.
You don’t need programming knowledge for daily site management. Hosting accounts come with a graphical interface to manage everything—upload files, install content management systems like WordPress, access databases, and create backups.
Besides server space, hosting providers often offer extra services like:
- SSL certificates (for secure https:// sites)
- Email hosting
- Website builders
- Developer tools
- Customer support (often live chat)
- Automatic website backups
- One-click software installs (like WordPress or Drupal)
Different types of hosting
Most providers offer different types of hosting to meet various needs. The most common are:
- Shared Hosting
- VPS Hosting (Virtual Private Server)
- Cloud Hosting
- WordPress Hosting
- Dedicated Server Hosting
The bigger your website, the more server space you’ll need. It’s best to start small with shared hosting and upgrade as your site grows.
So, what is web hosting?
Now you know what hosting is to start your website. In short, web hosting is the service you need for an online presence. A good provider keeps your site online, gives visitors a great experience, and helps you reach users worldwide.
