Web Hosting 101 - An introduction guide
For those of you new to online web hosting, we have prepared an introductory guide which will identify and discuss key concepts of the business.
First, a web hosting service is an online service which enables individuals or groups to make their websites available for access on the internet. A web hosting service does this by allowing a user a specific amount of space on one of their servers, which are computers dedicated to hosting. Servers, in-turn, connect that user’s specific website to the internet. Depending on the nature and purpose of the website, some users may require more server space than others. For example, a business site with multimedia features will use more space than an individual, text-only site.
Physically located in what are called data centers, servers, owned by the web hosting service, store large amounts of information. In some cases, a data center might provide server space and or internet connection for servers owned by a different parent hosting service. The process, known as collocation, allows businesses and other, smaller hosting services to provide internet access without having to either establish, or expand a data center of their own.
At this point you might ask: if a server is nothing more than just a dedicated computer, than why could I not just use one of my computers to host? Actually, you can. However, self-hosting requires a very strong internet connection, such as a T-1 line. Depending on your knowledge, self-hosting may limit your page’s development options. On the upside, hosting your own page means you do not have to pay a hosting fee.
Now that we have identified and discussed the nature and structure of web hosting, let us talk about its application to you, the user.
First, the two most common functions of service hosting are webpage hosting, and minimal file hosting. Webpage hosting, or single-page hosting, is designed to meet the needs of personal web pages only, and lacks the development strength to handle more complicated, business-oriented sites. Sites such as these demand steeper support services, such as the ability to develop applications or backlog massive amounts of data.
Minimal file hosting allows users to upload smaller, more manageable files through the internet’s File Transfer Protocol, or a simple webface, or web interface.
Beyond webpage and minimal file hosting, a web hosting service is able to provide other features such as script platforms. Script platforms allow users to develop websites with advanced features such as content filters, community forums, or the ability to electronically transfer money. Common script platforms include Java and PHP.
If you are interested in starting a website, and wish to take advantage of the services that a web host can provide, you must first decide 1) the goal of the site, and 2) what features (translated into server space) you may need to reach your goal. After considering all this, the next step is to investigate, which means researching possible web hosts based-on factors such as reputation, level of service, and the balance they offer in their payment plans (i.e. cost vs. services).
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