What web hosting actually is
Your website's files have to sit on a computer that's always connected to the internet so visitors can load them. A hosting provider supplies that. Your domain name (like yourbusiness.com) points visitors to wherever your site is hosted.
The main types of hosting
Shared hosting
Your site shares a server with many others. It's cheap and fine for small sites, but performance can suffer when neighbouring sites are busy.
Managed WordPress hosting
Hosting tuned for WordPress, often with updates, backups and caching handled for you. More expensive than shared hosting but less hassle.
VPS and cloud hosting
Dedicated resources and more control. Useful for larger or busier sites, but usually needs technical knowledge.
Website builder hosting
Platforms like Wix or Squarespace include hosting in their subscription. Convenient, but you're tied to that platform.
Static site hosting on a CDN
Fast, lightweight sites that don't need a database can be served straight from a global content delivery network. These platforms are very fast, very secure and, for typical small business traffic, often free.
What to look for
- Speed: modern infrastructure and a CDN so pages load quickly everywhere. Speed affects rankings and conversions, see website speed.
- Uptime: a strong track record of staying online.
- Free SSL: HTTPS should be included, not an add-on.
- Backups: automatic, regular backups you can restore easily.
- Security: firewalls, malware scanning and DDoS protection.
- Support: real help when something breaks.
- Location: servers or CDN coverage close to your customers.
Hidden costs to watch for
- Cheap introductory prices that jump at renewal
- Paid SSL certificates
- Paid backups or restores
- Email hosting charged separately
- Long contracts required to get the advertised price
Keep control of your accounts
Whoever builds your site, make sure the domain and hosting accounts are in your business's name, or that you have full access. Losing access to your domain is one of the most painful problems a small business can have.
Do you need to pay monthly for hosting?
Not always. If your site is a typical brochure or lead-generation site without a heavy database, it can often be built as a static site and hosted on a global network at no monthly cost, while being faster and more secure than cheap shared hosting. Sites that need e-commerce, member logins or heavy dynamic features usually need paid hosting.
Business email is separate
Email on your domain ([email protected]) is usually set up with an email provider rather than your web host. Budget for it separately.
If you're planning a new site, factor hosting into the total cost. Our guide on website costs covers this.
Most sites we build are hosted on a global network with no monthly hosting fee. See our hosting & care service or book a free call.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best type of hosting for a small business website?
For a typical brochure or lead-generation site, fast static hosting on a CDN or quality managed hosting works well. Sites with e-commerce or member areas usually need managed or cloud hosting.
Is free website hosting safe?
Reputable static-site hosting platforms that serve sites from a global CDN are fast and secure. Avoid unknown free hosts that place ads on your site or limit your control.
Should my domain and hosting be in my name?
Yes. Keep your domain and hosting accounts in your business's name, or make sure you have full access, so you never lose control of your website.