TL;DR:
To build a website, you need both a domain name (your web address) and web hosting (where your site lives). Domain names help people find you, while hosting stores your website’s content and makes it accessible online. Platforms like WordPress.org offer flexibility but require technical know-how, while builders like Squarespace, Wix, and Shopify offer easy, all-in-one solutions. The best choice depends on your comfort level with tech and how much control you want over your site.
You’ve got a business. Maybe it’s a product, a service, or a one-of-a-kind idea you’re ready to share with the world. And now it’s time to build a website to bring that vision to life.
But before you can launch anything online, there are two key pieces you’ll need: a domain name and web hosting.
Let’s break down what each one does, how they work together, and how to choose the right setup for your needs.
The Building Blocks of a Website
Think of your website like a house:
- The domain name is your street address—it tells people where to find you.
- The hosting is the land your house sits on—it stores all your site’s files and makes them accessible online.
Without both, your site simply won’t work.
What Is a Domain Name?
A domain name is the web address someone types into their browser to find your site (like yourbusiness.com). Ideally, your domain should match your business name and be short, memorable, and easy to spell.
The most common domain extensions are:
- .com – the gold standard for most businesses
- .net – often used when the .com version isn’t available
- .org – typically used by nonprofits
There are newer, more creative extensions like .studio, .design, or .tech, but they’re less familiar to the average user and may be harder to remember.
You can register a domain through services like Name.com or GoDaddy, where you can search for available names and claim the one that fits your brand.
What Is Web Hosting?
Web hosting is the service that stores your website’s content—your images, text, code, and everything else—and serves it up to visitors when they visit your domain.
There are two main types of hosting:
- Self-hosted platforms (like WordPress.org)
- All-in-one website builders (like Squarespace, Wix, or Shopify)
Self-hosted WordPress gives you complete control over the look and functionality of your site, but it does require a bit of technical know-how. You’ll need to:
- Install WordPress on a hosting server
- Customize a theme
- Use FTP (File Transfer Protocol) to upload files
- Keep your site updated and secure
If all that sounds overwhelming, a website builder like Squarespace or Wix might be a better fit. These platforms bundle hosting with an easy-to-use visual editor, so you can design your site without touching a single line of code.
Which Option Is Right for You?
It really comes down to how hands-on you want to be.
- If you want maximum flexibility and don’t mind digging into the technical side, a self-hosted WordPress site gives you full creative control.
- If you’d rather skip the setup and get online quickly, a platform like Squarespace, Wix, or Shopify might be the smarter choice.
Ready to Build Your Online Home?
Whether you’re dreaming of a custom WordPress site, a DIY builder like Squarespace, or a stylish Shopify storefront, we’re here to help. Our team specializes in turning ideas into bold, beautiful websites that stand out and truly reflect your brand.
Let’s bring your vision to life. Get in touch today »
