Shared hosting is a type of web hosting where a single physical server hosts multiple sites. Many users utilize the resources on a single server, which keeps the costs low. Users each get a section of a server in which they can host their website files.
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Shared hosting is a type of web hosting where multiple websites are hosted on the same server and share its resources. In this hosting environment, each website has its own separate space and resources, but they all use the same server’s processing power, memory, and other resources.
Here are some key points
- Cost-Effective: Shared hosting is typically more affordable than other hosting options because the cost of the server is shared among multiple users.
- Ease of Use: It’s user-friendly and doesn’t require users to have advanced technical knowledge. The hosting provider takes care of server maintenance and management tasks.
- Resource Limitations: Since resources are shared, there are limitations on the amount of server resources each website can use. High traffic or resource-intensive websites on the same server can potentially affect the performance of other websites.
- Suitable for Small to Medium Websites: Shared hosting is well-suited for small to medium-sized websites, blogs, and businesses with moderate traffic.
- Limited Customization: Users have limited control over server configurations because the server settings are managed by the hosting provider to ensure stability for all users.
- Shared IP Address: Websites on the same server share the same IP address. This is different from dedicated hosting where each website has its own unique IP.
- Commonly Used for Starter Websites: Shared hosting is often recommended for individuals or businesses launching their first website or those with websites that do not require advanced features.
- FTP users: FTP stands for file transfer protocol, and an FTP user is someone with access to a domain. If you run a personal blog, one FTP user is enough. However, in a business with coordinating team members, multiple FTP users are better.
Popular hosting providers offer shared hosting plans with various features and levels of support. Before choosing a shared hosting plan, consider factors such as your website’s requirements, expected traffic, and the reputation and support provided by the hosting provider.
How does shared hosting work?
Shared servers are similar to computers in that they have hard drive space, a central processing unit (CPU), and RAM. These resources are shared with other users hosted by the server. This makes it possible to securely store all the saved files, data, and information making up your website.
When anyone requests access to your website from their computer, the stored data of your website is sent from the server to the internet user. Shared hosting takes advantage of a server’s optimal utility, since each individual website generates different amounts of traffic, at different times.
Is shared hosting suitable for you?
Shared hosting is most suitable for the person or business that:
- Has limited background knowledge of web hosting
- Wants to save on costs
- Values hassle-free website management
- Requires a simple website for small businesses or personal purposes
- Is interested in learning web design, coding, or WordPress
Building a website is both exciting and daunting. Choosing the right web hosting setup is important to establish a good foundation for your website development. Unless you plan on going viral with a major marketing campaign, chances are shared hosting will handle your website’s needs.
Once your website is up and running, you can get a better sense of where your website needs to grow, whether it be in bandwidth or data storage. Starting on a shared hosting plan allows you the flexibility to scale without hiccups.