Learn the relationship between domain names and web hosting, and how they work together to make your website accessible.
What is a Domain Name?
A domain name (like yoursite.com) is your website's address on the internet. It's what people type in their browser to visit your site.
What is Web Hosting?
Web hosting is the physical storage space where your website files live. Think of it as renting space on a computer that's always connected to the internet.
How They Work Together
1. Domain Registration: You register a domain name
2. DNS Setup: Point your domain to your hosting server
3. File Upload: Upload your website files to the hosting server
4. Visitor Access: When someone types your domain, they see your website
The Process Explained
When someone visits your website:
1. They type your domain name in their browser
2. DNS servers translate the domain to our servers's IP address
3. The browser connects to your hosting server
4. Your server sends the website files to their browser
5. They see your website
Domain vs Hosting Providers
You can:
• Buy domain and hosting from the same company (easier)
• Buy them separately (more flexibility)
• Transfer domains between registrars
• Change our hosting services while keeping your domain
Important DNS Records
- A Record: Points domain to server IP address
- CNAME: Points subdomain to another domain
- MX Record: Directs email to mail servers
- NS Records: Specifies which DNS servers to use
