If you’re planning on setting up your own website, then you’ve probably heard about web hosting. Web hosting is the service that platforms offer to host your website on the internet. And if you’re new to the world of websites and having an online presence, it can be tricky to know exactly what web hosting is, how to use it, and how it can meet all your needs and requirements. This is where we can help because our team at catalyst2 can offer you the help and support that you need to launch your website.
For more than 20-years, our team has been offering trusted web hosting and support to our customers. We understand the importance of having a consistent presence on the internet, and the role that a good website can play in building your reputation. This is why we’ve created this beginner’s guide to web hosting, to help you work out not only what web hosting is but also which type of web hosting will work for you.
With our help you will be able to build the ideal website with the right domain name for your business, bringing your business to the attention of your client demographic.
What is Web Hosting?
This is a good question and the start to really understand what web hosting is. If you don’t understand how the internet works it can be difficult to understand the concept of web hosting but to put it simply web hosting is the space on the internet that your website is built on. To put it into context, if the website was a shopping centre, then web hosting would be the area that your physical shop would be built on. Your domain name is your address and your web host is your landlord. Naturally, there will be different types of building that you can hire and different contracts that you can be on, which is outlined in the different types of web hosting.
How Does it Work?
Your website will be hosted on a server, which is a powerful computer that stores and processes data. These services store the files that make up your website and also process the requests to view these files. This means that when a potential customer or a returning customer chooses to visit your website, the computer will contact the website server and once the request is approved the server sends back the webpage file. As a result, your customer will be able to see your website in their browser. Of course, this is a lot more complicated than it sounds here, but fundamentally that’s how web hosting works.
There are hundreds of different web hosts on the market, but our team at catalyst2 are committed to being the company that you can turn to. Our work will exceed all of your expectations. As your web host, we will provide you with a server to host your website and offer you the additional support and security that you need to keep up your high performance. We understand how important your website is to your reputation, particularly as a slow running website will frustrate your customers and encourage them to look for a different company.
It is important to note that you need to have a domain name before you choose your web hosting plan because we cannot host a website that doesn’t have a domain name. Our team at catalyst2 has a domain name availability checker that will allow you to find your perfect domain name before you pick your hosting plan. We’re your one-stop shop for all of your web hosting needs, and we can help you find the best way to get your customers to your website.
How Do You Arrange Your Web Hosting?
There are so many different types of web hosting available to you that you need to choose from in order to effectively run your online business. This is one of the first decisions that you have to make regarding your web hosting. It can be difficult to choose which type you prefer as each has its own benefits and its own drawbacks. What is important is that you find the right hosting company for your visitors and customers.
-
The Shared Hosting Server
If you’re looking to set up a small website, perhaps for a blog or some other small entertaining or informational website, then you might want to consider a shared hosting server. This particular type of server is significantly more affordable than the others available because you’ll be sharing the server with at least one other website. The number of other websites on your server will depend greatly on the package that you choose. But fundamentally what it means is that the attention of the server will be split several different ways. This could be a really useful solution for lower traffic websites, particularly if you do not plan on installing any sort of shop on your website. This cheaper package is also beneficial for those who have a more limited budget.
-
The Dedicated Server
A dedicated service is the opposite of the shared hosting server because it offers you a server dedicated to your needs. This means that your website will be able to see a large amount of traffic for an extended period of time. Additionally, you will have full control over your systems and security, which isn’t always the easiest option for those just starting out as it can take a lot of expertise to properly utilise. It is also one of the most expensive options available.
-
The Cloud Server
A cloud server effectively allows many separate servers to work on one large server. Because your website is being hosted on the cloud rather than on a dedicated server, you have the opportunity to pay by use, meaning you can expand the amount that you are paying for your cloud storage at any given time rather than needing to change your entire package. This is a great way for you to be flexible with your web hosting and allows you to grow at your own pace.
Research the Type of Website you Want to Create
Here at catalyst2, we can offer you a range of web hosting for different websites. Of course, you can change your package at a later date but it’s always best to start on the right foot. Identifying the type of website that you’re creating is key for picking the right hosting package because, as we mentioned earlier, it can impact your choice.
Usually, our customers are looking to create either blog websites, online stores, online portfolios, individual websites or business websites. It’s best that you ask yourself which type of website you’re looking to create, what you’re planning on doing with the website and what future plans you have for it.
Pick any Features you Want to Include
Knowing what type of website you are looking to create will determine the sort of features that you’re looking for. For example, an online store is a very different website from a blog site, and if you want to sell your product online, you want a platform that offers secure support and transactions. We can assist you with this, helping you have the capacity to grow your business or your individual reputation to the heights that you’re reaching for. We know all of the important features and support that you’ll need, and our 20 years of experience will be a real asset to you.
Choose your Budget
The price of your web hosting package will vary a lot depending on what type of web hosting you choose and the sort of website you’re looking to create. There are several free platforms, like Wix and Squarespace, which offer you a website without needing to pay for the web hosting. However, this is not always the right choice for you, particularly if you are a business. Free web hosting often gives you very limited options, which may not be right for your business.
If you’re choosing to pay for a package it’s important that you decide exactly how much you are willing to pay for your website not just now but also going forward. There are several advantages to paying for your web hosting, particularly if you’re working with a team like ours at catalyst2. Take your time in choosing your budget and make sure you stick to it.
How Can We Help?
Since we first started back in January 2000, we’ve helped thousands of clients get online and we are one of the most trusted UK hosting sites. This it’s something that we are incredibly proud of and we’re committed to keeping up this high level of customer service, exceeding your expectations every time you speak with us.
This includes our high-quality service and our exceptional customer service, which both work together to create a great experience for our customers. If this sounds like something that you need for your business or your individual endeavours, then we would be more than happy to speak to you today. You can give our office a call on 0800 107 7979 for more information. We look forward to hearing from you.
