Is Web Hosting the Same as a Domain Name? What To Know (2024)

Many blogging beginners in the Philippines often confuse web hosting with domain names.

While they are related, these are two distinct services required for having a website or blog online.

This article will explain the key differences and help Filipino blogging beginners understand what each one is for.

What is a Domain Name?

A domain name is the unique text identifier for a website or blog that users type into their browser to access it.

For example, example.com, myblog.ph, and johnsmith.org are all domain names.

Some key things to know about domain names:

The domain name is the human-readable address for your site.
Domains must be registered and renewed annually, typically for $10-20 per year.
Popular domain extensions are .com, .net, .org, .info, .biz, and .ph for the Philippines.
You register your domain name with a domain registrar like GoDaddy, Namecheap, etc.

The domain name points to the hosting server where your site’s files are stored.

But it is not the actual hosting itself.

Think of it like your home address – it tells people where you are located but is separate from your actual house.

What is Web Hosting?

Web hosting is the actual service that puts your website or blog online by storing all the necessary files on a specialized server.

This allows people to access your site using the domain name.

Some key things about web hosting in the Philippines:

Web hosting provides the storage space for your site’s data and files.
It gives your site access to a content delivery network (CDN) and servers.
Hosting comes with email services, databases, security, and technical support.
There are many hosting providers like Hostinger, HostGator, Bluehost, etc.
Hosting plans range from shared, VPS, to dedicated servers.

Without web hosting, your site cannot be accessed online – even if you have a domain name.

The hosting stores and delivers the actual site content to visitors.

Key Differences Between Domain Names and Web Hosting

While domain names and web hosting work closely together, they are very distinct services:

Domain – The name and address for your site. Like a home address.
Hosting – The place that stores your site’s data and files. Like a house or apartment.
You can register multiple domains to point to a single hosting account. But each domain name needs to be registered separately.
Domain names involve a one-time registration fee. Web hosting requires an ongoing monthly or annual payment.
Domain registrars only provide the registration service. Web hosting providers offer space, servers, email, security, and technical support.
Domains take a few minutes to register. Signing up for web hosting takes longer since you select a hosting plan.
Domains can be purchased for 1-10 years at a time. Hosting plans are typically monthly or annual subscriptions.

Do You Need Both?

Yes, to have an operational website or blog you need both a domain name and web hosting.

The domain is mandatory so that people can access your site by typing in a human-readable address.

And web hosting is essential for storing your actual site content and making it available online 24/7.

Trying to use one without the other will not work:

A domain name without hosting leads to a “site not found” error.
Hosting without a domain has no way for people to access your site online.

So as a beginner, make sure to register your preferred domain name and sign up for suitable hosting.

Treat them as two parts of the same service.

Hosting Options for Beginners in the Philippines

As a new blogger or site owner, it’s recommended to start with basic shared hosting. This is the most affordable and straightforward option.

Some top picks for starter bloggers based in the Philippines include:

Truehost Cloud – Offers unlimited sites on one account. Prices start at $2 per month.
Bluehost – A popular beginner choice with 24/7 support. Plans from $2.75 per month.
SiteGround – Fast and reliable hosting with expert WordPress support. Plans from $3.95 per month.
DreamHost – Unlimited bandwidth and SSD storage. Prices from $2.59 per month.

When selecting hosting, look for providers with simple onboarding, cPanel access, 1-click installs for content management systems like WordPress, and 24/7 customer support.

GET WEB HOSTING

Summary

Domain names and web hosting work together but are distinct services.
The domain name provides the human-readable address for accessing your site.
Web hosting stores your site’s data and makes it available online.
Both are required to have a functioning site or blog.
As a beginner in the Philippines, start with shared hosting from a reputable provider.
Register your preferred domain name and connect it to your hosting account.

Hopefully, this overview has helped explain the difference between domains and hosting for blogging beginners in the Philippines.

With both registered and connected, you’ll be on your way to publishing your site!

Is Web Hosting the Same as a Domain Name? What To Know