Briefly

Each website has its files stored on a web server, your domain name points to this web server, so that when people click on your url the files are displayed.

You do not need to have your website hosted by the same people that you purchase your domain from, it is entirely up to you where you host your website, however you do need to change the “nameservers”.

What is a nameserver, this is explained, along with other terms used in regard to web hosting.

Nameserver

Your nameserver simply points people to where your website is stored. The information is stored with your domain name, within a password controlled area. If you move your web hosting this information needs to be changed, it is a relatively easy task, but if you are unsure, whoever is hosting your website may help you.

Web Space

This is the amount of physical storage on the web server that is allocated for you to store your files. The amount of space required will depend on the amount and type of files that you need for your website. Small websites do not require very much, however large websites with databases video and audio files will require more space.

Bandwidth

This is a monthly allocation and it relates to the amount of traffic that your website receives. Again this will depend on your website, and large websites will need a large bandwidth otherwise the website will slow up.

Email Accounts

The number of email accounts you need will depend on how many staff or people require their own personalised address, but you will require at least one. Email forwarding can usually be set up to forward a specific email address, that is related to your domain name, to your own personal email.

Secure Hosting

If need website with secure hosting, or a secure certificate, this will ensure sensitive data is store correctly. Although this will increase the cost of your hosting it is particularly importantly for eCommerce websites that store credit card transactions.

Databases

If your website needs any sort of database in order to function, and this includes Content Management Systems, Contact Forms, Shopping Carts etc then this may well cost extra. You need to check with your web host.

Customer Support

Hosting firms offer different levels of support, which can be email, phone, via their website, and it is worth checking what support is offered for each package.

For more information about web hosting please feel free to phone us and have a no-obligation chat.