What is a Web Host
First we have to explain some basic terms.
- The Web is a network of computers all over the world.
- All the computers in the Web can communicate with each other.
- Web servers are computers where web pages are stored and are highly connected with the rest of the internet.
- Web clients view the pages with a program called a web browser such as Internet Explorer and Mozilla Firefox
- The collection of all your web pages is called your web site.
- To let others view your work, you must publish your web site.
- To publish your work, you must copy your site to a web server.
Once you have organized your web site, your next step is to have somewhere to place it so it could be seen on the internet. You need a place to have your site hosted.
A web host is a company that provides you with server space for your web site. This includes all of the files associated with your web site. When your web address is typed into a browser, the web host displays your pages. Web hosts provide servers, computers that have high connectivity with the rest of the internet community and where your web files are stored. Web hosting providers also offer all kinds of internet services such as domain registration, email accounts, web site design, server side programing scripts and other. You can use your own PC as a web server but remember that web hosting requires time and overall internet technology knowledge. Using a server from a web hosting company has some crucial advantages:
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Most web hosting providers have very fast connections to the Internet
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Service providers often have many powerful web servers
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Internet Service Providers are specialists on web hosting which results in high security and stability
Companies which are specialized in providing web hosting services have advanced technology and equipment which allows them to meet more sophisticated internet needs. They have the experience and know-how. For all these reasons we don't recommend hosting your site on your own PC unless you're willing to invest considerable amount of time and money in hardware, software and education.
