What is Web Hosting?

Written by Brad Traversy | 09 May 2010

It seems like everyone has a web site these days, even dry cleaners, landscapers and your next-door neighbor. This is probably because it is now very simple to start and maintain a web site. But before a web site can be viewed on the Internet, it must first be “hosted” by a web hosting provider.

A web hosting service performs the very important task of allowing individuals and businesses to make their web site accessible on the World Wide Web. They do this by providing a “space” on their server, which can be bought or leased by their clients. Typically located in a data center, hosting providers offer space and Internet connectivity for clients in a variety of ways.

The most basic type of web hosting involves the delivery of web pages and a relatively small amount of file hosting. New site content can easily be uploaded by the client using an FTP site (File Transfer Protocol), or web interface.

Most personal web page hosting is free of charge or very inexpensive, because it is often subsidized by advertising. However, web hosting for a business web site can be quite expensive.

The more complex a web site becomes the more comprehensive the web hosting package will be. Web hosting packages for businesses often include database support and multiple application development platforms, such as ColdFusion, Java, ASP.NET and SSL.

Depending on the size of your business there are a several web hosting options available. These include shared web hosting, reseller hosting, VPS (Virtual Private Server), managed hosting, clustered hosting, dedicated hosting and colocation hosting.

When choosing a web hosting provider, you will want to make sure they have a fast server that provides at least 99% “uptime”, since you wouldn’t want your site to be inaccessible to visitors because the server is down. You should also be sure they are properly managed, offer speedy service and use reliable equipment.

Hosting a web site doesn’t need to be complicated, in fact it can be quite simple. Most internet web hosting services include installation, repair and maintenance, plus 24-hour Internet connection for one or more shared (or physical) computers. Choosing which level of hosting your site needs will depend on the size and scope of your site, the level of traffic, and your customization needs.