Q: What's the diff. between website builder & web hosting?

Website builder vs. web hosting: What’s the difference?

If you’re planning to create a website, you may have come across the terms website builder and web hosting.

While they sound similar, they are actually different things.

In this guide, we’ll explain the difference between website builder and web hosting, and help you decide which one is right for you.

Getting started

This guide is for anyone who is planning to create a website, whether it’s for personal or business use.

If you’re new to website creation, it can be confusing to understand the different terms and options available.

By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear understanding of website builder and web hosting, and be able to make an informed decision about which one to use.

How to

Website builder: A website builder is an online tool that allows you to create a website without any coding knowledge. Here’s how to use a website builder:

Choose a website builder: There are many website builders available, such as Wix, Squarespace, and Weebly. Choose one that suits your needs and budget.
Sign up: Once you’ve chosen a website builder, sign up for an account. This will give you access to the website builder’s tools and features.
Choose a template: Most website builders offer a range of templates that you can use as a starting point for your website. Choose one that matches the look and feel you’re going for.
Customize your website: Use the website builder’s tools to customize your website. This may include adding text, images, and other content, as well as adjusting the layout and design.
Publish your website: Once you’re happy with your website, click the publish button to make it live on the internet.

Web hosting: Web hosting is a service that allows you to store your website files on a server, and make them accessible on the internet. Here’s how to use web hosting:

Choose a web hosting provider: There are many web hosting providers available, such as Bluehost, HostGator, and SiteGround. Choose one that suits your needs and budget.
Sign up: Once you’ve chosen a web hosting provider, sign up for an account. This will give you access to the web hosting provider’s server.
Upload your website files: Use an FTP client to upload your website files to the web hosting provider’s server. This may include HTML files, images, and other content.
Configure your website: Once your website files are uploaded, you’ll need to configure your website. This may include setting up a database and configuring DNS settings.
Publish your website: Once your website is configured, it will be live on the internet.

Best practices

Consider your technical skills: If you’re comfortable with coding and have technical skills, web hosting may be a better option for you. If you’re not comfortable with coding, a website builder may be a better option.
Consider your budget: Website builders typically have a monthly fee, while web hosting requires an upfront cost. Consider your budget and choose the option that works best for you.
Consider your website’s purpose: If you’re creating a simple website, a website builder may be sufficient. If you’re creating a complex website with advanced functionality, web hosting may be a better option.
Do your research: Before choosing a website builder or web hosting provider, do your research and read reviews to ensure you’re choosing a reputable provider.

Examples

Let’s say you’re a small business owner who wants to create a website to showcase your products and services.

You don’t have any coding knowledge, and you want to keep costs low.

In this case, a website builder may be the best option for you.

You could use a website builder like Wix or Squarespace to create a professional-looking website without any coding knowledge.

You’ll pay a monthly fee for the website builder, but it will be much cheaper than hiring a web developer.

On the other hand, let’s say you’re a web developer who wants to create a complex website with advanced functionality.

You have the technical skills to code the website yourself, and you want full control over the website’s design and functionality.

In this case, web hosting may be the best option for you.

You could use a web hosting provider like Bluehost or HostGator to store your website files and configure the website to your exact specifications.