A Beginner’s Guide to Web Hosting Terminology

Starting a website or blog can be an intimidating process, but understanding the basics of web hosting terms can make the process simpler and more user-friendly. To help, here’s a beginner’s guide to web hosting terminology.

1. Domain

A domain is the address people use to access your website, which is based on numeric Internet Protocol (IP) addresses. It’s the website’s home on the internet. Common domains include “.com,” “.net,” and “.org.”

2. Hosting

For a site to be online, there must be a dedicated web host that stores the website’s information, content, and files. The host is a computing resource that allows the website to stay online and available to access from any machine via its domain.

3. DNS

DNS stands for Domain Name System. It is what connects the domain to the host and is responsible for resolving the website address into an IP address. DNS also keeps track of the user’s requests when browsing the internet.

4. SSL Certificate

SSL stands for Secure Sockets Layer. It is a protocol that provides website security to protect data transmitted via the internet. An SSL certificate is issued by a Certificate Authority (CA) to ensure that a website is secure and authentic.

5. FTP

FTP stands for File Transfer Protocol. It is a network protocol used to transfer files from one host to another over the internet. It is typically used to upload files from a computer to a web server.

6. Bandwidth

Bandwidth measures how much data can be uploaded and downloaded from a website. Bandwidth is usually limited and allocated in units such as megabytes (MB) or gigabytes (GB).

7. Backup

Backup refers to periodically copying and storing data in the form of files or databases so they can be restored in case of accidental deletion or equipment failure.

8. Uptime

Uptime is the amount of time that a website or server is available and functioning properly. Uptime is usually expressed as a percentage such as 99.99%, and is one of the most important factors in web hosting.

Conclusion

Understanding the basics of web hosting terminology and concepts can help make the website or blog creation process easier and more user-friendly for any beginner. Learning the terms will provide a better understanding of the process and the technicalities behind it.

What is the difference between web hosting and domain hosting?

Web hosting is the storage space that hosts a website and provides the technologies and services needed for the website to be viewed on the internet. This includes bandwidth, disk storage, FTP access, programming languages, and more. Domain hosting is the process of registering a domain name for a website. It involves reserving a specific name to make sure no one else can use it, and allowing that domain name to be used as a web address. Domain hosting does not include the actual storage space for a website, but it is an important step in the web hosting process.

What is the difference between web hosting and domain name registration?

Web hosting and domain name registration are two different services pertaining to having a website on the internet. Web hosting is the service that provides a server, storage space and the necessary features to have a website available on the internet. This can include bandwidth, FTP access, databases and web programming languages. Domain name registration is a service that specializes in registering domain names, determining the ownership, and assigning the correct DNS servers. Domain name registration is required before web hosting services can be used.

What are the advantages of registering a domain name?

1. Brand Recognition: Registering a domain name helps to build your brand’s online presence, improve recognition, and be more memorable for customers.

2. Credibility: A website with an associated domain name can lend credibility to a business. People place more trust in businesses with an online presence.

3. SEO Benefits: When registered, the domain name can be connected to a web hosting service, allowing you to create an online presence and benefit from SEO opportunities.

4. Protection: Registering your own domain name helps protect your brand and prevent potential competitors or cybersquatters from taking it.

5. Email Addresses: Registering a domain name allows you to create custom email addresses to go with it, adding a professional touch to your business correspondence.