If something is too complex, the best way to break it down into digestible chunks is to have it explained to you like you’re 5 years old, so you can fully grasp them and be able to explain them to the next person. Words “domain” and “web hosting” are always being thrown around in marketing but what exactly are they? Here’s a simplified explanation of what domain, web hosting and website are, so you can easily pass on the knowledge.
Imagine your business is a little shop. You are opening a shop called Lama Solutions. To open it properly, you need three main things: A domain, website hosting and a website. But what are these things?
What is a Domain Name?
The Domain is your shop name & address, like:
- www.lamasolutions.co.za
- www.google.com
- www.yourbusinessname.co.za
Think of it like this: Your shop’s name so people can find you. You have to buy it once per year so no one can take it from you and name their business. Without a domain, people don’t know where your shop is and what it is called.
What is Website Hosting?
Website hosting is the land your shop sits on. It is a place on the internet where your website lives.
Think of it like this: The land where your shop is built. Your website files (words, pictures, contact form) are stored there so people can see them online. No hosting = no website to visit.
What is a Website?
A website is the actual shop. It is what people see when they visit your domain.
Think of it like this: The shop building with:
- A sign (Home page)
- Shelves (Services/Pricing page)
- A help desk (Contact page)
You can build it using tools like WordPress without coding or you can hire Lama Solutions to build it for you.
What is an Email?
An email is your business letterbox.
A business email looks like this:
- info@lamasolutions.co.za
Think of it like this: Your shop’s mailbox. Customers trust this more than Gmail or Yahoo. Email uses your domain name, but it is usually bought separately or added as an extra.
How They All Connect
Here’s how everything works together:
Domain = your shop name.
Hosting = where the shop stands.
Website = the shop itself.
Email = the shop’s mailbox.
They all use the same domain name.