What Is Web Hosting? How It Differs from a Domain
Hosting is hosting your website's files and application on a server connected to the internet. The domain name provides the address of your site, and hosting provides the environment in which the content opened by the visitor runs.
What happens when a page opens?
When a domain name is typed into the browser, the DNS system directs this name to the relevant server. The browser connects to the server; The server returns resources such as HTML, style files, and images. In a dynamic application such as WordPress, the server reads content from the database and creates the page.
In this chain, the task of each service is different. Purchasing the domain name does not create the site files. Purchasing hosting also does not automatically register the domain name in your name; It is necessary to check the package scope separately.
Difference between domain, hosting, DNS and SSL
| concept | Mission | Information to check |
|---|---|---|
| Domain | Site address | Ownership, expiration date and renewal fee |
| Hosting | Hosting files and applications | Disk, resource limits and software support |
| DNS | Forwarding the domain name to services | Nameserver, A, AAAA and MX records |
| SSL/TLS | Encrypting the connection with HTTPS | Covered domains and renewal |
These services can be obtained from a single provider or managed by different companies. It is possible to use different providers; The important thing is to keep account access and DNS records correct.
How should you separate hosting types?
In shared web hosting, many accounts use the same server's resources within certain limits. Reseller hosting focuses on the management of multiple independent customer accounts. VDS is a virtual server that offers administrative access to the operating system.
It may not be necessary to manage a server for a new promotional site. If you need to set up a special service or have an application that runs constantly, VDS may be more suitable. Taking on unnecessary technical responsibilities can increase startup costs.
Short checklist for first purchase
- Determine which software you will use: static site, WordPress, or custom application.
- Write down the number of sites, disk requirements, and email usage.
- Compare initial and renewal fees for the same payment period.
- Know the backup scope and restore method.
- Check that the domain name and hosting accounts are opened with your access information.
Web hosting packages page is the starting point for examining the resources side by side. When in doubt, compare the needs of your application instead of choosing the “biggest” package.
Compare the appropriate service for your project.
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