What is web hosting?
I was talking to a friend the other day who isn’t as consumed with “all things Web-related” as I am and she made an interesting comment: “Maybe a lot of people have no idea what web hosting is?” The thought never occurred to me. Sometimes my mind doesn’t think like non-techies and for this I am sorry. So, here’s a brief explanation of what web hosting is and why you need it.
When a website owner purchases web hosting, they are paying for the right to store their website files on a computer (called a server) at a remote location. This allows your website files to be accessed by people using the Internet. The web host also handles all of the technical aspects of installing necessary software on the server and making sure that the server is working 24 hours a day.
It’s similar to how some antique stores or flea markets work on a consignment basis. If you wanted to sell your antiques, you could rent out a booth in an already established antique store. You wouldn’t have to worry about utility bills, building maintenance, or any of the other concerns that arise when you own a building. This is what you are doing when you sign up for a web hosting account. It might be very expensive and time-consuming to set up your own server and have to deal with everything involved with that.
I hope this makes sense. If not, click on the “Contact” button above and ask away.
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