What is web hosting? A plain-English explanation.
If you’ve ever seen “shared hosting”, “WordPress hosting”, or “cPanel” and felt your eyes glaze over, this page is for you. Here’s what web hosting really is, in simple language, and when you actually need to care about the details.
The short version
Web hosting is a service that keeps your website’s files on a special computer (server) that’s always online, so people can visit your site at any time.
Think of it like renting a small piece of space on the internet. Your domain name is your address. Your hosting is the building where your website “lives”.
What you actually need for a first website
You do not need to understand every feature. For most first-time site owners, you mainly care about three things.
Look for a plan that clearly says it supports one website and includes a free SSL (the little padlock). Words like “shared hosting” or “basic plan” are common here.
If you want a blog or a more flexible site, WordPress is a common choice. Many hosts have a “one-click” WordPress install. You shouldn’t have to touch code.
For beginners, live chat support is often more important than tiny performance differences. When something breaks, you want a human to respond quickly.
Common types of hosting (in real words)
Many small websites using the same server. Cheapest and fine for new blogs, personal sites, or small businesses just starting out.
The host focuses only on WordPress and handles updates, security, and performance. Costs more, but ideal if you never want to touch settings.
A more powerful slice of a server with more control. This is usually for growing sites or people comfortable with more technical options.
How to avoid overwhelm when choosing a host
Hosting comparison tables can feel like a wall of numbers. Here’s a calmer way to make a decision.
Are you a first-time site owner? A local business? A blogger? Use the advisor first, then read pricing pages with that lens instead of trying to scan everything.
If a feature sounds confusing and you’ve never needed it before, chances are it’s not critical for day one. You can always upgrade or switch later.
A good money-back guarantee means you can test a host for a few weeks. If it feels too confusing or slow, you can move without losing everything.
Next step: get a suggestion, then visit the host
You don’t have to compare 20 different companies. Start with 1–3 that match your needs and do a quick sanity check.
Use the Tool Advisor to get a short list that fits your situation. Then visit each host’s site, look at their basic plan, and see which one feels easiest to live with.