What Is Web Hosting and Who Needs It?

A LITTLE PRIMER
All web sites on the Internet run on a computer sitting somewhere that is attached to the Internet. Those computers -referred to as servers- are the backbone of the Internet itself.

There is software running on those computers that allow it to "host" information that a web browser (such as Internet Explorer or Firefox) is able to render into a visual web page. The act of using a server to host this "web page" is called "web hosting."

WHO NEEDS WEB HOSTING?
Well, since you are reading this article, *you* probably need web hosting. ;)

Actually, though, there are a lot of people and companies who can benefit from having a web site hosted. You are most likely familiar with the large company websites like Microsoft and IBM, but even small businesses can benefit from a website.

These benefits include:

Reinforcing business worth and credibility
Establishing an image for your business
Providing a 2nd impression (i.e. put web address on business cards)
Offering services and products 24 hours a day, 7 days a week!
Providing key information to generate leads

So, it really makes sense for a lot of situations. On the personal side, it can be a way to keep friends and loved ones informed by updating your site regularly. This is especially helpful with loved ones who are overseas (off to war, etc) and who may not have reliable communication back and forth. There is a special kind of website used for one-way posting called a "blog" that has taken hold across the Internet. There are blogs for personal thoughts and blogs for businesses. Mostly, though, a blog provides an excellent way to "vent" or just ramble on about things that interest you.

In the end, web hosting is something that caters to quite a few people. If you are one of those people, then we hope you do a little research and find a web hosting company that treats you right! Best wishes!

Article By: Brandon Elliott

Brandon Elliott is a highly respected consultant who has attainted CISSP, CCNA, MCSE, and several other certifications. However, Mr. Elliott's skillset transcends networking and security as demonstrated in other technology ventures that utilized his talents for coding, design, user interface, and strategic planning.

Visit Brandon's Hosting Company at: http://www.imagion.com

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