What Are Domains and Hosting?
A beginner-friendly guide to understand how websites go live on the internet.
If you are new to web development, terms like domain and hosting can feel confusing. Every website you see online uses both. In this guide, you will learn what domains and hosting are, how they work together, and why they are important.
What Is a Domain Name?
A domain name is the address of a website. It is what users type into the browser to visit a website.
- example.com
- google.com
- learnbyahmad.com
Behind every domain name is an IP address, but domain names are easier for humans to remember.
What Is Web Hosting?
Web hosting is the place where your website files are stored. These files include HTML, CSS, images, and JavaScript.
A hosting server runs 24/7 so your website is always available on the internet.
Domain vs Hosting (Simple Example)
- Domain → Home address
- Hosting → House where things are stored
- Website → Furniture inside the house
How Domain and Hosting Work Together
When someone types your domain name into a browser:
- Browser finds the hosting server
- Server sends website files
- Browser displays the website
Common Types of Web Hosting
- Shared Hosting (best for beginners)
- VPS Hosting
- Cloud Hosting
- Dedicated Hosting
Best Choice for Beginners
If you are just starting, choose a simple domain name and shared hosting. It is affordable, easy to manage, and perfect for learning.
Why Domains and Hosting Matter
- Your website cannot exist without them
- They affect website speed and uptime
- They build trust and brand identity
Final Thoughts
Domains and hosting are the foundation of every website. Once you understand these basics, learning web development becomes much easier.
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