1. Domain Name
- Definition: A domain is the address of your website that users type into a browser (e.g., example.com).
- How to get one: You need to purchase a domain from a domain registrar. Popular registrars include:
- GoDaddy
- Namecheap
- Google Domains
- Bluehost
- Domain Cost: Typically costs between $10 to $50 annually, depending on the domain extension (like .com, .org, .net) and its demand.
2. Web Hosting
- Definition: Web hosting is the service that stores your website’s files and makes them accessible on the internet.
- How to get it: You need to purchase a plan from a web hosting provider. Some common web hosts include:
- Bluehost
- HostGator
- SiteGround
- A2 Hosting
- Hosting Types:
- Shared Hosting: Multiple websites share the same server resources. This is the cheapest and most common option for small sites.
- VPS Hosting: Virtual Private Server hosting gives you a dedicated portion of a server’s resources, providing more stability and control.
- Dedicated Hosting: You get an entire server to yourself. This is powerful but expensive, typically used for large or high-traffic websites.
- Cloud Hosting: Scalable hosting solution where resources are spread across multiple servers, making it more flexible.
- Managed WordPress Hosting: Optimized hosting specifically for WordPress websites, often including features like automatic updates and enhanced security.
- Hosting Cost: Can range from $2/month (shared hosting) to $100+/month (dedicated or premium hosting).
Steps to Launch a Website:
- Register a Domain: Choose and purchase a domain name that reflects your brand or project.
- Choose a Web Host: Select the hosting plan that fits your website’s needs (e.g., shared hosting for a small blog, VPS for a growing business).
- Point Domain to Hosting: Once both are purchased, you need to connect your domain to your web hosting by updating the DNS settings.
- Upload Website Files: You can either upload custom-coded files or use a Content Management System (CMS) like WordPress.
- Go Live: After uploading, your site is ready to be accessed by users online.