Web hosting

Definition

Web hosting is a service that provides the computing, storage, network access, and software environment needed to publish a website.

How it works

Every website is files and software running on a server somewhere; hosting is the service that provides that somewhere. Models differ mainly in who does the operating — shared platforms handle the server for you, while a VPS hands you the keys. Your domain's DNS then points visitors at whichever environment you chose.

Example: A hosting account stores a site's files, runs its application, connects it to a database, and serves responses over HTTPS.

Often confused: The domain is your site's public name; hosting is the environment that actually serves it.

Related terms

• Domain name
• Server
• Shared hosting
• Uptime
• Virtual private server (VPS)

Learn more from Bitfoo

• Learn what web hosting is
• Review web hosting plans

Sources

• NIST Computer Security Resource Center Glossary
• MDN Glossary of web terms

Last reviewed 2026-07-19.