Support Articles, FAQs, and How-To Guides
What is Web Hosting and How Does it Work?
This article explains what web hosting is, why you need it for your website, and how it works behind the scenes. You’ll learn the basics in simple terms so you can make the right hosting choice for your business.
Web hosting is the service that makes your website accessible on the internet. When someone types your domain name (like yourbusiness.com), web hosting ensures your site loads quickly and securely.
Here’s how it works in plain language:
- Your website files (text, images, code) are stored on a web server.
- A domain name points visitors to that server.
- When someone visits your site, the hosting server delivers the content to their browser.
Without hosting, your website cannot be seen online. KDigital Hosting provides reliable servers, strong security, and local Connecticut-based support to help small businesses stay online 24/7.
Step-by-Step: How Web Hosting Works
- You create a website using a platform like WordPress or a custom design.
- You purchase web hosting from a provider like KDigital Hosting.
- Your website files are uploaded to the hosting server.
- Your domain name is connected to your hosting account through DNS (Domain Name System).
- Visitors type your domain into their browser and see your website live.
Think of it like renting office space: your domain is the street address, and web hosting is the actual building where your business lives online.
Additional Resources
- How to Log in to Your Hosting Dashboard
- Difference Between Shared, VPS, and Cloud Hosting
- How to Upload Your Website Files
FAQs
Do I need both a domain and hosting?
Yes. The domain is your website’s name, and hosting is the space where it lives. You need both.
What’s the difference between web hosting and a website builder?
A website builder helps you design a site. Hosting is where the finished site is stored and accessed online.
Why do I need hosting if I already have a domain name?
A domain is only the web address. Hosting makes sure the site loads when people visit that address.
Is free web hosting a good option?
Free hosting often comes with limitations like slow speeds, ads, and no support. Paid hosting ensures reliability and security.
How does hosting affect website speed?
Your hosting server’s performance directly impacts how fast your site loads. KDigital Hosting provides optimized servers for better speed and uptime.