While these terms are closely related, domain and web hosting are two different services. Domain hosts offer domain names–addresses that help visitors access the web, while web hosts content like websites or internet servers. To have a functioning website, you need both– a domain and a hosting space.
As the two elements work hand in hand, it’s vital to understand their differences before creating a website. This article will offer comprehensive information about web hosting and domain, including how they work.
What is a Domain Name?
As the internet expanded beyond its academic origins, Paul Mockapetris invented the domain name system (DNS) in 1983. The first domain ever was symbolics.com, registered on March 15, 1985. A domain name is your website’s address that people type when seeking to visit your website. In shorter terms, if your website is your house, then the domain name is the address.
Domain host stores domain names and expedite registrations happening on the web. Without a domain name, you will be typing special numerical labels assigned to each website and server on the internet, also called IP addresses. To get a domain name, you must register to reserve the chosen name on the internet for a certain period.
Domain registration allows you to renew the license annually, but you can choose to pay for up to ten years to preserve the domain name under your name. However, before starting domain registration with a domain registrar, it’s crucial to check the domain name’s availability using a domain name searcher tool.
You can opt for domain privacy protection to hide your contact details from people searching for information from WHOIS lookup tools.
What is Web Hosting?
Web hosting is a place that stores all your website’s files. Like a domain name being likened to the address of your house, web hosting is the actual house. All websites on the internet require web hosting to provide users with information, including publishing the website on the internet.
A web host doesn’t provide you with an address for your website. This internet hosting service offers internet users easy access to your content. However, most hosting companies require one to own a domain name to host with them. If you lack a domain name, the hosting company can help you purchase one.
When someone types in your website’s domain name, your web host provider sends the content to the visitor. Web host companies provide beginner-friendly tools for all users to help manage the website without technical skills.
In addition, the hosting provider provides website builders with customer care services and server maintenance to help you maintain or create your website. Also included in your package is server and website protection from malicious attacks.
Before choosing a hosting company, consider the following factors:
- Server speed and uptime for fast loading speeds and uptime so that your site experiences minimum downtime.
- User-friendliness with a control panel and dashboard with extensive functionality for easy usage
- Plans and pricing that fits into your budget in the long term.
- Customer service for reliable support and immediate assistance when having technical issues
Verdict
Domain and web hosting are two different services, but they go hand in hand to provide the website owner and user with the ability to create and receive information. Without web hosting, your website can’t exist on the internet, and without a domain, people will not find your website. It’s advisable to purchase a web hosting and domain name from the same place to avoid the stress of manually linking them. Choose a company that offers you a hassle-free and smooth experience for the success of your website.
