Getting Started with your first Web Site

Introduction to domain names and web hosting

What is a domain name? How is it connected to web hosting? These are common questions that linger on the minds of many.

Simply put, a domain name is just like an address that exists solely for convenience. Computers prefer to communicate with each other via their IP Addresses, which is a string of numbers separated by periods. An example would be 209.123.207.57. This would be difficult for a human to remember. A domain name, like www.reverac.com, would be much simpler for humans. When a visitor enters a domain name (for example, reverac.com) into his or her browser, their computer will send a request to a nameserver which will translate reverac.com into 209.123.207.57. With the IP address, the visitor's browser will then be able to communicate with the web server and load the web site. Unlike an ordinary address, a domain name can be retained even if you change your web hosts.

To sum up, a domain name is simply a pointer to your web site, like a road sign.

New to Hosting? A Guide.

1. Introduction to domain names and their connection to having a web site
2. Choosing and obtaining a domain name
3. Web Hosting Package

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