Key takeaways:
- Web hosting is a service where a provider stores your website data on a server while making it accessible online.
- There are seven types of web hosting that fit different needs based on business size, data requirements, security, etc.
- A domain name is like your website’s street address, while web hosting is like the house that sits on the address.
Web hosting is a cloud-based service that keeps your website on the internet. It stores your website data on a web server and makes it accessible to the public.
Your web hosting provider is responsible for maintaining the physical servers containing your website files and ensuring the website remains online. They may also provide additional services that make managing your website easier, such as security systems, website backups, and a dedicated support system.
Here, we’ll discuss the ins and outs of web hosting and how you should choose the right host for your needs.
What is website hosting — an overview
Let’s dive a bit further into the concept of hosting.
Web hosting is a service that makes your website accessible on the internet. It involves storing and serving website files, data, and content on specialized servers. When someone types in your website’s domain name or clicks a link, their browser requests the site’s files from the server, which then displays the website.
How website hosting works
A website is a collection of data, images, text, and databases. Website hosting providers store these components on a server that distributes and makes your website accessible across the web.
Based on the type of deal you have with your website hosting provider, you’ll have a set number of resources allocated for your website. These resources include:
- Bandwidth. It determines how fast data arrives on your website visitors’ browsers. Larger bandwidth means your website will load faster.
- Random access memory (RAM). RAM is how website servers store short-term data. It is also responsible for executing tasks for the server, such as processing logins, loading videos, and giving website access to concurrent users. More RAM also affects website load speed and access to more traffic without errors.
- Disk space. Disk space controls how much storage your website has on a server. If you’re on a hosting plan with vast disk space, your website can store and display more files, images, videos, and databases.
A website hosting provider simplifies website hosting, deploys security systems, and provides a support structure to keep your website running.
Alternatively, you can opt for a self-service-styled web host. But this requires vast technical know-how, funds, and infrastructure to accomplish.
Types of web hosting
Web hosts offer different types of web hosting packages to fit different customers. For example, a small business might opt for a shared hosting package to reduce costs by sharing server resources with other websites.
The best providers have upgrade options to help scale your website once you have a steady stream of visitors. After scaling up to a more sophisticated web host package, you can also include more features, like creating more subdomains.
To help you decide which package fits your needs, here’s a summary of the different types of web hosting:
| Plan | How it works | Pros | Ideal for |
| Shared hosting | Dozens of sites sit on one server and share its resources | Lowest price, control-panel setup, no server maintenance | New blogs, hobby sites, small local businesses |
| Virtual Private Server (VPS) | A hypervisor slices a server into “mini-servers”; you get a guaranteed slice of CPU, RAM, and storage | More power and root access without the cost of a whole machine | Growing sites, small ecommerce, dev sandboxes |
| Cloud hosting | Your site runs across a cluster; resources scale up or down on demand | Pay-for-what-you-use, automatic failover, easy to handle traffic bursts | Apps or stores with unpredictable or spiky traffic |
| Dedicated server | You rent the entire physical server—no neighbors | Maximum performance, full hardware control, higher security isolation | High-traffic ecommerce, streaming, large databases, compliance-heavy projects |
| Managed WordPress / WooCommerce | The provider tunes the stack for WordPress and handles updates, caching, and security | One-click setup, automatic patching, staging sites | Site owners who’d rather focus on content than server chores |
| Reseller hosting | A shared or VPS account split into sub-accounts that you can rebrand and sell | Turnkey business model, central billing tools | Agencies and freelancers building sites for clients |
| Colocation | You own the hardware and park it in a datacenter rack; the host supplies power, cooling, and bandwidth | Total hardware control, enterprise-grade facility | Tech teams that need custom boxes and 24/7 uptime without running a building |
Our in-depth guide lets you learn more about the different web hosting types.
How to choose the right web host
Selecting the right hosting provider is like choosing a trustworthy business partner—it can make or break your online journey.
Here are some key considerations to keep in mind when choosing the perfect web hosting service provider for your small business:
- Hosting type tailored to your needs. Before diving in, understand your website’s requirements. Different types of web hosting, like shared, VPS, dedicated, and cloud hosting, offer varying levels of resources, control, and scalability. Opt for the hosting plan that aligns with your business size, traffic expectations, and technical expertise.
- Reliability and uptime guarantees. Check the web host’s uptime guarantees. You want a web hosting provider that ensures your website is up and running most of the time. Look for uptime percentages above 99.5% to avoid frustrating downtime that could turn potential customers away.
- Loading speeds and performance. Choosing a plan that provides good speed is important for your brand and reputation. A slow website can lead to high bounce rates and poor user experience. Investigate the hosting provider’s performance track record – they should have fast server speeds and content delivery networks (CDNs) that enhance loading times across the globe.
- Security features. Choose a web hosting company that offers robust website security features, including firewalls, regular malware scans, and SSL certificates to encrypt data transmissions. Your customers’ trust and data are on the line, so prioritize a provider with a strong security stance for your business website.
- Scalability and growth potential. Ensure your web host can accommodate increased traffic and resource demands as your business expands. Scalability should be seamless and not hinder your website’s performance during growth spurts.
- Customer support reliability. Reaching out to experts for advice when encountering errors can reduce website downtime. A web hosting company should offer exceptional technical support that’s responsive, knowledgeable, and available 24/7. A quick resolution to any issues can prevent prolonged website downtime and potential loss of customers.
- Budget and value. Picking a budget plan can help reduce expenses. While cost is a factor, prioritize value over the lowest price. Consider the features, performance, and support within your budget to make an informed decision.
- Reviews and reputation. Research the hosting provider’s reputation. Read reviews from other users to gauge their experiences. Look for feedback on customer support, uptime, and overall satisfaction to get a clear picture of what to expect.
- User-friendly interface. Managing your web hosting plan should be hassle-free. Choose a web host with an intuitive control panel that makes managing domains, databases, and other settings easy. A user-friendly interface can save you time and minimize frustration.
- Backup and recovery options. Providing failsafes for website crashes differentiates the best service providers from an average one. Your web host should offer regular backups and recovery options to restore your website in case of data loss or other emergencies. This safety net can prevent catastrophic losses.
The best web hosting provider is more than a service – it’s a strategic partner in your online success. Thoroughly evaluate your options based on these considerations, ensuring that your chosen provider aligns with your business goals, technical needs, and budget.
Benefits of web hosting solutions
The right web hosting service can be your secret weapon when establishing a strong online presence for your small business. A good hosting service goes beyond just giving your website a place to reside—it can significantly impact your brand’s success and customer experience.
Here are a few key reasons to consider a reliable web hosting service for your business website:
Determines your page load speeds
It only takes a few seconds for a customer to leave a sluggish website and turn to a competitor.
A good hosting service ensures your website pages load quickly, enticing visitors to explore further. This speed improves user experience and plays a role in search engine rankings, meaning your site could show up higher in search results, drawing more potential customers in.
Keeps your website afloat 24/7
Imagine your shop’s door always being open to customers – that’s the reliability a good hosting service provides for your website. It ensures your website is accessible 24/7, building trust among your customers.
Downtime, when your website is temporarily unavailable, can turn away potential customers and harm your brand’s credibility. In fact, a minute of downtime can cost small businesses hundreds of dollars. Reliable hosting guarantees high uptime, keeping your digital doors open for business.
Keeps your site secure
Just like you’d secure your physical store, your website needs protection, too. A good web hosting service offers robust security measures to safeguard your digital assets from cyber threats, data breaches, and malware. This is especially crucial when handling sensitive customer information or processing online transactions. A secure website builds trust and confidence among your customers.
Offers scalability for online growth
Imagine your business experiencing a sudden customer surge – you’d want your shop to handle the increased traffic. Similarly, good web hosting services allow your website to easily handle higher visitor numbers and increased content as your business grows. This scalability ensures your website remains responsive and user-friendly, even during peak periods.
Provides technical support
Think of the web hosting service provider as your tech-savvy partner. A good web host offers excellent customer support, quickly addressing any technical glitches or issues. This support can be a lifesaver, especially if you’re not well-versed in the intricacies of website management.
Investing in the best web hosting company for your website is like setting a solid foundation for your online brand. It’s not just about having a place for your website to live; it’s about ensuring your website performs impeccably, stays secure, and grows seamlessly as your business flourishes.
What is web hosting, and what is a domain name?
After building your website and deciding where to host its files, it’s time to name it. That’s where a domain name comes in. Domain names are the identifying addresses for websites. They’re what your customers type in the address bar to find and access your site.
There are two parts of a domain name that help with distinguishing your brand:
- Second-level domain. It’s the “main” portion of the domain name that identifies your website. A second-level domain is the middle portion of a domain name. For instance, google is the second-level domain in www.google.com.
- Top-level domain. This is the extension at the end of a domain name. For example, .com, .org, or .net are common top-level domains you might encounter.
So, what’s the difference between web hosting and a domain name? In layperson’s terms, a domain name is your website’s street address. It’s the label customers need to remember when accessing your website.
On the other hand, web hosting is the house that sits on your website’s address. A web host stores your website’s files and data on a server so visitors can reach it.
Put simply: Buy a domain so your audience knows where to find you. Rent hosting, so there’s something waiting for them when they arrive.
Our guide on domain names can provide a more in-depth explanation and help you choose the perfect domain name for your business.
Secure your web hosting needs with Network Solutions
Your web hosting plan can make or break your online presence, so make it count. Select a plan that fits your storage, speed, and bandwidth needs to ensure customers can access your website 24/7. Better yet, choose a web host provider that offers scalability options so your website can grow as your brand does.
Building your online business from the ground up doesn’t have to be a hassle. Partner with Network Solutions and explore our variety of web hosting plans that will fit your every need.
Frequently asked questions
Web hosting is a service in which the provider stores your website data on a server and makes it accessible online.
It depends on your business. A small business can benefit more from a shared hosting plan by reducing expenses. An enterprise might consider a dedicated server to handle more traffic and ensure website security.
Consider the price, features, and security. Choose a provider that best fits your budget while ensuring a professional website without accessibility issues.
