Last updated: Jul 14, 2024
Confused by the difference between a domain name vs web hosting?
You need both to create a website – your domain name is your website’s permanent address on the Internet and your web hosting is the engine that powers your website.
In this post, we’ll explain the difference in greater detail and give you some tips to get started with both domain names and web hosting.
What is web hosting?
Your website is made up of a number of files, folders and data. For visitors to be able to view your website, that information needs to be put on a server (a computer) that visitors can access. That’s where web hosting servers play a part. They store your website files for a small fee and allow visitors access to it.
In order to understand how to host a website, you should know that a web server is somewhat similar to a home computer, but it’s built specifically to store websites. It’s always on and connected to the internet continuously.
Note: You can use this to see what host a website uses.
What is a domain name?
A domain name is the address of your website on the web and helps visitors find you. Examples of domain names are Google.com, Yahoo.com, Themeisle.com. In a previous post, we explain more about what domain names are and how they work.
Domain names make it easy for users to recall the name of the website. That’s one of the reasons why it’s important to pick a suitable name for your website.
To own a domain, you’ll need to register it using a service called a domain registrar.
The difference between a domain name vs web hosting
Though domain names and web hosting are often purchased together, they are actually two different things.
Main differences between domain name and web hosting:
Where to get a domain name and/or hosting
Now that you know the difference, let’s talk about where you can buy both domain names and web hosting.
Easiest option – buy domain name and web hosting from the same provider
One reason why people get confused between domain name and web hosting is that often they are both offered by the same service provider. And that’s good practice because:
Bluehost is one such company that offers a one-stop solution for all your web hosing requirements. For a special intro offer at $2.75/mo, you’ll get a free domain for one year, free SSL certificate and one-click WordPress install.
Some people prefer to keep their domain name registration and web hosting separate. This may be on account of:
Where to buy just a domain name
You can buy a domain name from a domain name registrar for as little as $10, and use it with any hosting company. Once you purchase and register a domain name, it’s yours for the duration of the registration (one year by default). Just take care to renew the registration before expiry of the validity period.
Some of the best domain name registrars are:
While selecting a registrar, do check out their add-on services like WhoIs privacy, support and reminder services before you make your choice. If you’re choosing any specific country level extension like “.uk” or “.ca”, you may need to contact a registrar in that country.
Where to buy just web hosting
Nowadays, there are many hosting service providers who rent out server space for reasonable monthly/annual subscriptions. When it comes to shared hosting, a few of the popular web hosts are:
Get your domain name and web hosting today
Domain names and web hosting are not the same. However, you need both to create a website and put it up on the internet for visitors to access. To recap:
For the easiest way to get started with both, you can use Bluehost. Bluehost is a popular web host that also lets you buy a domain name (and even gives you a free domain name for your first year).
Berna Partal
Content Marketing Specialist
Berna is the Content Marketing Specialist on Starkecom, who likes to play with the words. She loves curating new content for the marketing field, learning new languages, and diving into books.
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Terms Of Use | Privacy Policy | Earnings Disclaimer
Enjoy the rest of your Day!