Domain Hosting vs. Web Hosting?

When it comes to building a website, there are many technical terms that you might come across that can be confusing, especially if you're new to website development. Two of the most important things you need to consider when building a website are domain hosting and web hosting.

Domain Hosting

Domain hosting is the process of storing your website's domain name on a server. A domain name is a unique identifier for your website, and it's how visitors will find and access your site. When you register a domain name, you need to choose a domain hosting service that will store your domain name on a server and make it accessible on the internet. This process involves configuring your domain's DNS (Domain Name System) settings to point to your domain hosting provider's servers.

Some popular domain hosting providers include:

• GoDaddy

• Namecheap

• Bluehost

• HostGator

• DreamHost

Setting up your custom domain with Namecheap and Netlify

If you are unsure about which domain registrar to go for, Namecheap is what I started with and is currently using :) This is a simple tutorial on how to set up your custom domain with Namecheap and Netlify.

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Web Hosting

Web hosting is the process of storing your website's files and data on a server, and making them accessible on the internet. When you create a website, you need to store the files and data that make up your site on a server, and then make them available to visitors who want to access your site. Web hosting providers offer different levels of service, ranging from shared hosting (where multiple websites share a server) to dedicated hosting (where you have a server all to yourself).

Like domain hosting, web hosting also involves configuring your website's DNS settings to point to your web hosting provider's servers. This ensures that when visitors enter your website's domain name into their browser, they are directed to the correct server where your website is hosted.

Some popular web hosting providers include:

• Bluehost

• HostGator

• SiteGround

• InMotion Hosting

• DreamHost

Differences between Domain Hosting and Web Hosting

The main difference between domain hosting and web hosting is that domain hosting refers to the storage of your website's domain name, while web hosting refers to the storage of your website's files and data. In other words, domain hosting is like renting a unique address for your website, while web hosting is like renting the physical space to store your website's content.

Another key difference is that you can use different providers for domain hosting and web hosting. This means that you can register your domain name with one provider, and then choose a different provider to host your website's files and data. This can be beneficial if you want to shop around for the best prices and features for each service.

When it comes to DNS, both domain hosting and web hosting require you to configure your domain's DNS settings to point to the correct servers. DNS is like a phone book for the internet - it translates domain names into IP addresses, which are used to route requests to the correct server. By configuring your DNS settings correctly, you can ensure that visitors are able to access your website reliably and quickly.

When choosing a domain hosting or web hosting provider, there are several factors to consider, including:

• Price: How much does the service cost, and what is included in the price?

• Uptime: What is the provider's uptime guarantee, and how reliable is their service?

• Support: What level of support is provided, and how quickly can issues be resolved?

• Features: What features and tools are included, such as email hosting or website builders?

• Scalability: Can the provider accommodate your needs as your website grows and traffic increases?

In summary..

Domain hosting and web hosting are essential services for creating and publishing a website. While they are different services, they both involve configuring your website's DNS settings to point to the correct servers. By choosing the right providers for domain hosting and web hosting, you can ensure that your website runs smoothly and efficiently, and that visitors are able to access your content reliably and quickly.