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The
idea of a web site having a 'home' is a good way to understand Hosting. If
you've already read the information on my Domain
Names page, then you know about your web address. So let's pretend for
a moment that the internet is like your neighborhood. Everyone has a
street address that describes where each house is. That's like your Domain
Name on the web. Now imagine that each house is web site with all of the
content inside, ready for you to view (now stop thinking bad things about your
real neighbors). In the world of the internet, each house would be like a
Server, which is basically just a computer with lots of memory. Got all
that? Great.
Many large companies, and some
small companies, own their own servers. That means they can put all of
their web site files on their own server, and direct visitors to it when they
enter a certain Domain Name on the internet. But many businesses have no
need for a server. That's where Hosting companies come in. They are
like the landlords of the internet. They own and maintain a bunch of huge
servers for web site content, and they basically 'rent' space to people that
want a web site but don't want or need their own server. And like an
apartment building, in many cases several web sites share space on the same
server. This means that the cost is shared, and can be very inexpensive.
Of course there are some shady 'slumlords' out there that are only interested in
money, so you do need to choose wisely.
Web Design companies often
offer hosting plans, but I prefer to use a third party. That way it's a
separate expense that's in your name, so if you ever switch designers you don't
have to switch your Hosting company. And there's only one company I
recommend (you may have noticed the gigantic ad for Hostway the top of this
page). I've done the research, and Hostway is simply the best. They
offer plans to fit every need and budget, including integrated E-Commerce
packages. Basic Hosting plans start at just $13.95 per month. Click
their ad above for more details.
Don't forget the mail...
A good hosting plan will include several email addresses, which also
contribute to the professional appearance of
your business (Hostway's basic plan includes 25). If you're on the web as
www.joescoffee.com, then you
shouldn't be sending emails from joe@aol.com, but from joe@joescoffee.com.
The email accounts can be used with email programs such as Microsoft
Outlook, or they can be accessed directly from the internet.
Oh, and just because Hosting is
through a third party doesn't mean you're on your own. I will help you
choose the right plan, walk you through the sign-up process, set-up your account
and email addresses, and handle any support issues related to your site.
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