Between domain names, web hosting, web browsers, URLs and servers – there’s a lot to take in when it comes to all that website lingo!
It’s common to feel a bit confused by it all so we’re here to help simplify it. To get a website live on the internet so people can find out more about you or your business, you need both a domain name and web hosting to make it work.
Here’s a simple analogy that will help you remember the difference between the two:
Think of a domain name as your home address and web hosting as your physical house where you store all your things!
Pretty simple right? Let’s break it down even further in an easy to digest kind of way:
1. DOMAIN NAMES
Before you can create a website, you need a domain name. Your domain name is unique to you. Once you have registered it, nobody else can register the same name for as long as you continue to renew it.
These days there are several extensions you can choose from. For example; .com.au, .com, .net etc.. you can now even get .melbourne, .sydney and more. If you choose to secure multiple extensions of a domain (so no one else can steal it), they can all be pointed to the same website. You can check if the domain name you’d like to secure is available here.
It’s important to know that when you register a domain name, you aren’t buying it outright forever. You are simply “renting” it for a certain period of time (minimum of 1 year).
If you forget to renew your domain and it expires, it goes back up for sale for anyone to register it. It’s much like renting a house – if you don’t pay your rent, you get kicked out and someone else can move in.
Registering a domain name also allows you to have a personalised email address such as yourname@businessname.com.au. A more professional approach to your business communications than something like janedoe123@hotmail.com. Learn more about our recommended email service providers here.
2. WEB HOSTING
Now you have a grasp on domain names, let’s talk web hosting. Web hosting allows you to have a physical presence on the internet. It’s a place to store all the data your website needs to perform properly. A website is basically a group of files which all work together to deliver the content your visitors see.
A web host (or web hosting service provider), provides the technologies and services needed for your website to be viewed in the Internet.
Websites are hosted (or stored) on special computers called “servers.” When your visitors want to view your website, they type your domain name into their web browser which connects to these “servers.” Your webpages are then delivered through their web browser (such as Firefox, Safari or Google Chrome).
READY TO GET STARTED?
If you are setting up a new business and not sure where to start, we can help. Mediamojo take care of everything from registering domain names to setting up and managing your website hosting.
We are experts when it comes to designing and building websites that convert. Not many design companies can offer the type of service we do – a small creative team that handles everything under one roof. From design to build, to managing and problem solving any website issues as they arise.
We pride ourselves on prompt reliable service and are here to help should you have any questions along the way.
It’s important to note that no web hosting provider can guarantee 100% uptime and from time to time your website may experience some disruption or technical difficulty. This is one of the main reasons to choose a hosting company you can get to know and trust.
We’d love to work with you to get your new business online or perhaps revamp your existing website with a new look and feel. Contact us today to discuss
