Introduction to Hosting¶
What is Hosting?¶
Hosting is a service that allows individuals or organizations to make their websites accessible on the internet. When you host a website, you store its files (HTML, CSS, JavaScript, images, databases, etc.) on a server connected to the internet 24/7. When someone types your website’s domain name into a browser, the hosting server delivers the files to their device.
How Hosting Works¶
- Website Creation: You build your website using HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and other technologies.
- Choose a Hosting Provider: You rent space on a server from companies like Hostinger, GoDaddy, or AWS.
- Upload Files: Website files are uploaded to the hosting server using FTP or a control panel.
- Connect Domain: The domain name (e.g.,
example.com) is linked to the server using DNS. - Access by Visitors: When users enter the domain name, the DNS finds the server’s IP address, and the website loads in their browser.
Difference Between Domain and Hosting¶
| Feature | Domain | Hosting |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | The web address users type to visit your website (e.g., example.com) |
The storage space where your website files are kept |
| Purpose | Identifies your website on the internet | Stores and serves website content |
| Analogy | Like a home address | Like the actual house |
Example:
If your website is a house:
- The domain is the address (
123 Street Name). - The hosting is the land where the house (website files) sits.
Components of Hosting¶
1. Server¶
A powerful computer that stores your website files and runs 24/7 to make your website available online.
2. DNS (Domain Name System)¶
Converts your domain name into an IP address that browsers use to find the hosting server.
3. FTP (File Transfer Protocol)¶
A method used to upload and manage files on your hosting server. You can use tools like FileZilla.
4. Control Panel¶
A graphical interface (like cPanel, Plesk) provided by the hosting company to manage your website, emails, and databases.
5. Database¶
Stores dynamic website content such as user accounts, blog posts, or product data (e.g., MySQL, MongoDB).
Importance of Hosting¶
- Keeps your website accessible 24/7
- Provides storage for your website files
- Ensures speed and reliability through server performance
- Offers security features like SSL, backups, and firewalls
- Allows scaling as your website grows
Example Scenario¶
You build a portfolio website using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript:
- You purchase a domain —
portfolio.com - You choose hosting — e.g., Netlify or Hostinger
- You upload your files to the hosting server
- When someone visits
portfolio.com, the server sends your site’s files to their browser
This is how hosting makes your website live on the internet.