What is Web Hosting?

Web hosting allows individuals and organizations to create websites that are accessible via the World Wide Web. Companies host websites by providing dedicated space on a server and Internet connectivity. Web hosts can host a variety of clients simultaneously, each with a variety of different set-ups. Many Internet Service Providers (ISPs) offer free web hosting services for subscribers, but these are typically not sufficient for businesses and organizations. Web hosting for personal use is usually less expensive and less involved than web hosting for businesses and organizations that require several pages and database support.

Shared Web Hosting Service

The website is placed on the same server with several other sites, sharing common server resources like RAM and the CPU. This is a cost efficient option for smaller businesses that need the services provided by a large hosting service but don't have the budget for an in-house server or an entire server.

Managed Hosting Service

In this hosting situation, the website owner has his/her own Web server but does not have full control, which means the owner does not have administrator access. The owner is allowed to manage the data via remote management tools. The host can provide quality of service by not allowing the owner to modify the server.

Dedicated Hosting Service

The website owner has a dedicated Web server and gains full control, including root access for Linux and administrator access for Windows. The owner typically does not own the server, but does control all information. Owner accepts responsibility for security and maintenance of the dedicated server.

Cloud Hosting Service

Cloud hosting is a new method of web hosting that is powerful, scalable and reliable. The server and the software are all located on clustered load-balanced servers, which helps prevent downtime by distributing power and compensating for outages. Cloud hosting is also billable by service only, as a flat rate or a fixed cost up front. This is a boon for smaller companies that are unsure of the amount of services needed.

Conclusion

There are many more options for web hosting, so companies of all sizes and budgets should easily find the right amount of services for a reasonable price. The key is to draw up a list of needs and wants and then reference that list when shopping around for the best deal.