Glossary · Hosting and delivery

Hosting

The service and infrastructure that make website files or application responses available to internet visitors.

Also called: managed hosting, website hosting

Definition

Hosting makes a website reachable. Traditional hosting may provide a server account; static hosting distributes prepared files; application platforms execute code and connect data services. The price can be zero within a platform's current free limits, but domain registration, email, forms, maintenance, and professional work remain separate.

Why it matters

The right hosting model depends on the site's functionality, traffic, ownership needs, support requirements, and tolerance for platform limits.

Common misunderstanding

No separate hosting line item does not mean the website costs nothing to build, maintain, support, or operate.

Related system family: Hosting & Release

Sources

Last reviewed July 16, 2026

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