If you’re creating your first website, there’s a lot of terminologies you need to learn before you can launch.
When it comes to setting things up, it’s extremely important to understand the difference between domain vs hosting.
Before you start creating, check out this helpful guide that will show you the various differences between hosting and your domain.
What’s a Domain?
You can think of your domain as your business name or your home base. The domain name is what people will type in their browser’s URL to get to your website.
In other words, the domain is your .com. The Internet is a huge network of computers that are all connected. Each computer is assigned a string of random numbers called an IP address
Think of the Internet as a giant network of computers connected to each other through cables. To easily identify them, each computer is given an IP address, which is a series of numbers separated by dots.
While a computer can easily remember an IP address, it’s not so easy for humans. This is where domain names come in.
Choose a domain name that has a catchy ring to it so your clients, readers, or customers will have no problems remembering it. By typing in your domain, they’ll be immediately directed to your website.
Before you decide on a domain, you’ll need to make sure it’s available. You can do this easily by running a quick availability search online.
When you choose your domain name, make sure it’s something that people will remember. Select something catchy and relatable to your particular website theme or business.
Domains that are easy to remember will get more traffic and you’ll likely see better sales or readership. Brainstorm a few ideas before deciding so you can be sure you choose the right domain name for your needs.
What Is Hosting?
In order to have a working domain, you’ll need to use a hosting company. The term web hosting refers to the place where all the files within your website are held.
You can think of it this way: the domain is your address, but the hosting is the actual home that is attached to your address. Every single online website must use hosting in order to function and be live.
When a person types in your domain name, it’s translated into the IP address of your web hosting company. The web host holds all of the files on your website and sends them back to the computer users’ browser so they can see it.
The main job of a web hosting company is to store and service a variety of websites. You can find an assortment of different plans and storage levels available, all at varying price points.
Hosting companies use servers to store and access all of your website’s files. You pay a set cost to them for the use of their server, which can vary from monthly to annual payments or more.
For both domain names and hosting services, you can usually find discounts like a namecheap coupon code or other offers. Shop around to find the best domain and hosting services that will suit your needs.
Domain vs Hosting: How They Relate
When it comes to understanding domain v hosting, it’s important to remember that although they are different, they still need to work together. Each one is a different service, but they need each other in order for your website to be published.
Think of your domain name as a single address in a huge address book that’s always being updated. On the backend, the hosting service is storing all those files within the domain, or address.
You can choose the perfect domain for you, but it won’t be published without a hosting service. Many hosting companies offer domain names for one singular cost.
There’s no hard and fast rule that says you have to purchase your domain name from your hosting service or vice versa. Feel free to shop around until you find the pricing and level of service that works for you.
Just keep in mind that one will not work without the other. You can’t build a website without hosting, and you’ll never be found by other people without a domain name.
Many hosting companies require you to already have a domain name before using their service. If you don’t, they’re likely to sell you one so you can get started building your site.
A quality hosting service will provide you with customer support and help whenever you need it. They should also offer various subscriptions that combine other services like email addresses and site building software for one price.
Get Started on Your Website
Now that you know the differences of domain vs hosting, you’ll be more prepared to start working on your website. Think about the various domain names you can choose from and check to make sure the one you want is available.
Choose your hosting company based on price, customer service, and their ability to handle your website files. When you combine these two things together, you’ll have a smooth-running website that people will remember.
Consider a bundle package where you can get your domain, email address, and hosting service all in one. It’s a great way to save money and keep everything all together.
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