WAHM Forums

I apologize in advance because I know that these are really dumb questions but I can't seem to wrap my head around it...

What is the difference between webhosting and the site that I signed up for when I registered my domain name?

If I want to do e-commerce - do I need a webhosting? Can I do it without it? If I buy an e-commerce package that includes a site, will I still need to get webhosting or will that be good enough?

Webhosting means a server somewhere hosts your file.

Buying a domain name is just that. For example, godaddy charges separately for domain and webhosting.

As far as e-commerce, it really depends on what you're looking to sell and how much and how you're planning on selling it on what type of hosting you need. Sometimes you don't need to pay extra for special "e-commerce hosting"...

I always try to find the cheapest hosting option for my clients.

I don't mind answering any other questions about your issues, feel free to PM me.

It's not a dumb question at all. Hosting is like renting a brick and mortar shopping space for your wares, ecommerce package (shopping cart development) is the cool display set up you buy to go with your new store. It's pointless having products to sell without without having a place to put them in for potential customers to see ^_^. Hence the need for hosting, it's your online brick and mortar rental space.

I am asked that alot. I think its a really common question.

Honestly there are no dumb questions.

No one knows these things until they do them or experience them. There is so much jargon, and so many new terms, ideas, etc.. out there it can be confusing.

Likely you can host your site where you purchased your domain. I don't. I always buy my domains at godaddy but I host with a different provider because of the offer of unlimited accounts. For one price I have many domains and I like that option because I an also resell hosting space if I want. I don't do that unless I create your site, then I just throw in hosting since I really prefer using a host I am familiar with.

Always ask your host if they can accommodate your needs. Tell them what you want type of site you plan to build and know about how much space you may need. If you are outsourcing the site building the person you hire probably will be able to get these answers for you and recommend a host if they don't recommend or like where you bought your domain.

If you have any other questions do not hesitate to ask. The only way to learn is to ask.

Hi,

Definately not a dumb question and I'm glad you got some great answers regarding this. I have potential customers ask similar questions to this alot.

Teresa :)

Don't worry... you're not the only one asking this type of question. In fact, many of my clients who are just starting out online have the same questions as you... and it's not a dumb question to ask :p

The others in here have already given good answers to your inquiry. Let us know if you need any other help!

Hi,

You asked a very common question, not a dumb one at all. Our fellow board members gave you great answers.

If you need help in selecting a shopping cart that is easy to use, feel free to PM me.

Christin

This is a question I get a lot and it looks like you have received a lot of great responses. One thing that I love about this forum is the respect that everyone shows here. If you need any more help, please feel free to ask.