Domain name vs. web hosting: What’s the difference?
Whether you are a web developer, web designer, website owner, or someone who wants to be one of these, you’ve certainly come across the terms “domain name” and “web hosting.”
If you’re new to this world of websites, it’s important to understand the difference between the two and how they work together to create a website.
That’s why in this article, we’ll see the difference between a domain name and web hosting.
Domain Name vs. Web Hosting: What's the Difference?
A domain name is the address of your website (like www.iconicblogging.com). It’s what people type into their browsers to find and visit your site. Just like your home address helps people locate your house, a domain name helps people find your website on the internet.
Web hosting, on the other hand, is like the storage space for your website. It’s where all your website’s files, like text, images, and videos, are stored. When someone visits your website, their browser connects to the web hosting server to fetch those files and display your site on their screen.
In short, a domain name is the address and web hosting is the storage space that makes your website accessible to others.
But let’s cover these terms in more detail!
What is a Domain Name?
As mentioned above, a domain name is the address of your website on the internet. It is a unique identifier that visitors can use to access your website. For example, “www.example.com” is a domain name.
But note that a domain name is a website name.
A website name refers to the actual name or title of your website. It’s the name that represents your site’s brand or purpose. For example, if your website is about cooking, the website name might be “Delicious Recipes.”
And the domain name could be www.deliciousrecipes.com
Want to find a catch domain name for your blog? Check out this list of the best domain name generators.
How to Get a Domain Name
You can purchase a domain name from a domain registrar like Godaddy or Domain.com.
These registrars offer a wide range of domain extensions, such as .com, .net, .org, and many more.
Choosing the right domain extension depends on the nature and purpose of your website.
When you have your domain name and are ready to have your own blog, check out my guide on how to create a WordPress blog.
Types of Domain Extensions
We can broadly group domain extensions into different types. The most common type is generic top-level domains (gTLDs), such as .com, .net, .org, and .info.
These gTLDs are versatile and suitable for various types of websites, and the most popular is .com.
Most websites use TLD, like our website Iconic Blogging.
Most brands you know also use it, like Google.com, Facebook.com, Amazon.com, etc.
Another type is country code top-level domains (ccTLDs), specific to a particular country or region, such as .us for the United States or .uk for the United Kingdom.
Additionally, there are new domain extensions known as new generic top-level domains (new gTLDs), which offer more specific options like .blog, .shop, or .technology.
What is Web Hosting?
While a domain name provides the address for your website, web hosting is the service that stores and serves your website’s files and content on the internet.
Web hosting allows your website to be accessible to users around the globe. In simpler terms, it’s like renting space on a server to store your website’s data.
Every website in the world is hosted.
Examples of Web Hosting Providers
There are many web hosting providers available, each offering different features and pricing plans. Some popular web hosting providers include:
1. Bluehost: Known for its reliability, speed, and beginner-friendly features.
2. Hostinger: Popular for its competitive pricing plans and features.
3. Siteground: Offers excellent customer support and advanced security measures.
4. HostGator: Provides affordable hosting plans and a user-friendly interface.
5. WPEngine: Known for its reliable speed and website tools.
6. Kinsta: Offers high-performance hosting with a focus on speed and uptime.
These are just a few examples, and it’s important to research and choose a web hosting provider that aligns with your website’s requirements.
Read more: Top Reliable Blog Hosting Providers to Use.
How Do a Domain Name and Web Hosting Work Together to Create a Website?
When a user enters your domain name into their browser, the browser sends a request to the web hosting server associated with that domain.
The web hosting server then retrieves the website’s files and content and delivers them back to the user’s browser, allowing them to view your website.
So, do you need both a domain name and web hosting?
Do I need both a domain and web hosting?
Yes, to create a website, you need both a domain name and web hosting. The domain name provides the address, and web hosting stores and serves your website’s files and shows the website on the user’s screen.
To Sum Up
In summary, a domain name serves as the address of your website, while web hosting provides the necessary storage and server resources to make your website accessible on the internet.
Both elements are crucial for creating a successful website.
Domain vs Hosting: FAQ
What is the difference between hosting and a website?
Web hosting refers to the service that stores and serves your website’s files, while a website is what people see on their screen, the design, text, images, and content.
Is a host a domain name?
No, a host is not a domain name. A host refers to the web hosting provider or server that stores and serves your website’s files.
Do I need hosting with a domain?
Yes, a domain name alone is not enough to make your website accessible. Web hosting is required to store and serve your website’s files to users.
Is WordPress a domain host?
WordPress is not a domain host; it’s a content management system (CMS). However, WordPress.com offers hosting services along with its content management system.
How do I create a domain name and host?
To create a domain name, you can register with a domain registrar (like Domain.com), or purchase directly from hosting provider who will host your website (like Bluehost).
Is Google Domains a host?
Google Domains is not a hosting provider. It primarily offers domain registration services. However, you can connect your Google Domains-registered domain to various web hosting providers for hosting your website.
