Before you can put your business on the Web, you need to find a company to host your site. The following frequently asked questions and answers will help you understand what's involved with using a Web host.

What is Web hosting?

Web hosting is a bundle of services associated with maintaining a Web site. Typical Web-hosting services include Web-page design, domain-name registration, email and file storage. Most Web hosts ensure that your site remains up, set up security protection like firewalls and provide additional administrative functions.

How do I know if I need Web hosting?

If you want to put your business on the Web, you need Web hosting. You can either do it yourself or outsource it. But since hosting Web pages involves a substantial investment in equipment, software, security and personnel with specialized knowledge and experience, most businesses outsource it.

How can I update Web pages on a Web host’s computer?

Your Web host will give you a username and a password so you can upload changes to your Web page using an FTP (file transfer protocol) program.

What is virtual hosting?

Virtual hosting or a virtual domain allows you to have your own domain name (www.yourcompany.com) rather than a name associated with your ISP’s domain name (www.isp.yourcompany.com).