What’s the Difference Between Domain, Website, Hosting, and DNS?
So, you want a website. Easy, right? Just put your ideas online and—boom!—instant internet fame. But then you’re hit with terms like “domain name,” “web hosting,” and “DNS records,” and suddenly it feels like you need a tech dictionary. Don’t worry! We’re here to break it down with a simple metaphor.
The House Metaphor: Understanding Website Basics
Think of your website as a house:
Domain Name: This is your house’s street address (like “123 Main St” or new.weldwood.co/). It’s the unique name people type into their browser to find your website.
Website: The house itself—rooms, furniture, and all the stuff inside. In web terms, it’s the pages, images, and content your visitors see.
Web Hosting: The plot of land where your house sits. Hosting is the service that stores (hosts) your website’s files (like a hard drive) and makes them accessible online.
DNS Records: The GPS system that translates your street address into directions. DNS records connect your domain name to your hosting server, guiding visitors to your website.
Why Understanding Domains, Hosting, and DNS Matters
Knowing the difference between a domain, website, hosting, and DNS records helps you:
- Choose the right domain name for your brand
- Select reliable web hosting for better performance
- Troubleshoot website issues quickly
- Communicate clearly with web professionals
Whether you’re launching a new site or managing an existing one, these basics are essential for building a strong online presence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a domain name?
A domain name is your website’s unique address on the internet (e.g., new.weldwood.co/).
What is web hosting?
Web hosting is a service that stores your website’s files and makes them accessible to visitors online.
What are DNS records?
DNS records are settings that connect your domain name to your web hosting, ensuring visitors reach your website.
Can I have a domain without hosting?
Yes, but your website won’t be visible online until you have your hosting and DNS records all set up correctly.
Need Help With Your Website?
At Weldwood Marketing, we build really cool websites, and provide fast and secure hosting to make building and managing your website simple and stress-free.
Contact us if you need a new website, or have questions about domains, hosting, or anything else web-related. We’re happy to help!