Web hosting is putting a web page online through a web host. The first step consists in uploading the web page to the host. After the files are uploaded, the web page is available for all to see via the internet.

Most websites rely on dedicated hosting servers, which use a single machine to host several websites. This is the most economical means to host, as several web page developers share the general cost incurred in maintaining the servers. However, more prominent websites rely on managed hosting, which involves using one computer to host a single website.

Once a website has been hosted, uploading files can be achieved through the file transfer protocol, which essentially refers to a standard network protocol employed in transferring files between hosts over the internet. The uploaded files are usually delivered as originally or with slight modifications. As a result, subscribers often get file hosting on a small scale without charges from their internet service providers.

Putting an individual website online requires one to register with an Internet host. Since there are several of them available, finding an efficient web host should not be a problem. Ensure that the chosen web host has an efficient technical foundation. Depending on the number of bytes and the amount of data that can be carried from one point to another, one usually has to pay a variable monthly fee. Therefore, estimating the expected traffic before registering is a wise venture.

Most web page developers host and manage their websites within their areas of operation. This method is costly and, therefore, uneconomical. This is where collocation comes in handy. Collocation allows several customers to connect their sites to various service providers. Moving their servers to a collocation center means no losses are incurred as customer equipment is located at the data center of a third party.

Certain internet service providers host personal websites but with limits. This is done at the exact cost of the monthly internet access charge. In such cases, the individual is submissive to the terms and conditions of the internet service provider. The individual can register a unique domain label and have their site hosted with that label for a monthly charge to portray a businesslike image.

Not everyone can host and manage a website on a home or office computer. Doing so requires the use of internet server software. This enables users to see the websites stored on your hard drive. Managing a website on a home computer may be against the terms and conditions of your present internet service provider. In addition, the services you get will not be as reliable as you wish.

Complex sites require complete packages that provide platforms for creating applications and support for database programs. Web hosting, therefore, requires cloud computing which involves using the internet servers of a different provider for storage, deployment, and running applications.