What is a Web Host?

Simply put a web host is a business providing server space, web services and file maintenance for web sites controlled by individuals or companies that do not have their own web servers. This allows individuals and organizations to provide their own website accessibility via the World Wide Web. Web hosts are companies that provide space on a server they own for use by their customers as well as providing Internet connectivity. Files can be uploaded to these servers using File Transfer Protocol (FTP) or other web interfaces.

Web hosting is often provided as part of a general Internet access plan; there are many free and paid providers offering these services.

Keep in mind if you are going to design a site using specific applications that requires scripting software or other special server software, please ask the web hosting company if their servers can provide this support.

If you’re a business, you should ask about a web hosts “uptime” percentage, which is the host’s accessibility to the Internet. Many providers say they aim for a 99.9% uptime, but there may be server restarts and planned (or unplanned) maintenance outages in any hosting environments. Keep in mind if your site goes down, the possibility of you losing a sale or a potential customer increases.

Again, some of my recommended web hosting companies is Sleys.net, BlueHost.com and Register.com. There are many hosting companies. Sometimes the cheapest is not the best! One final thought; make sure your web host has 24/7 customer support. You should not have to wait till Monday morning to get your site back online. Until next time!

What is a domain name and where do I buy one?

In order to get your site on the Web, you do need to buy a what is called a domain name. My domain name is birdswebdesigns.com.

Some hosting companies offer packages that include domain registration services along with their hosting services. But I want you to please remember some very important things:

Make sure that when you register your domain name, it is registered under your name. Remember you are the owner. The domain name should never be listed as being owned by the hosting company. I have dealt with customers who have had this happen too them. Unfortunately there are hosting companies out there that utilize this practice and it is their way keeping you from switching to another hosting company.

I found that the best thing to do is register your domain yourself. You can go to sites like GODADDY.com or Register.com to search and purchase your domain name. BlueHost.com is also and good company to use.

Finally, remember to save all of your account information and passwords in a safe place. Your web hosting company will need this info. Make a printout of this info just in case something should happen and you cannot access it on your computer.

Until next time, happy surfing!