Website Q&A
- Details
- Category: Web Development
- Published on Sunday, 19 February 2012 22:55
Whats is a domain name
Domain names are used to identify one or more IP addresses. For example, the domain name microsoft.com represents about a dozen IP addresses. Domain names are used in URLs to identify particular Web pages. For example, in the URL http://www.pcwebopedia.com/index.html, the domain name is pcwebopedia.com.
Every domain name has a suffix that indicates which top level domain (TLD) it belongs to. There are only a limited number of such domains. For example:
- gov - Government agencies
- edu - Educational institutions
- org - Organizations (nonprofit)
- com - commercial business
- net - Network organizations
- ca - Canada
- jm - Jamaica
Because the Internet is based on IP addresses, not domain names, every Web server requires a Domain Name System (DNS) server to translate domain names into IP addresses.
Where do web pages have to be stored to be viewable on the web?
For a website to be viewable on the web, it needs to be stored on a computer or server that is attached to the web.
The computer or server needs to have a static ip address.
Most websites are stored on proper web servers operated by web hosting companies.
You create an account with the web hosting company and they provide you space on one of their servers to upload your website. Your domain name is pointed to the web server and your web site is viewable by everyone.
What Cost are Involved in Maintaining a Website
Fixed Costs
There are some items that are subject to an annual fixed cost, meaning that they recur each year (or month). Domain names and hosting fees are at the forefront of that category.
Domain Name
A domain name is basically leased on an annual basis from an authorized registry (or reseller). So, you don't purchase a domain name (i.e., mydomain.com) outright, you lease it for a 12-month period as must renew that each year (NOTE: you can register up to ten years in advance).
Web Hosting
In order for your site to be accessible to the world, it most be hosted on a web server. Prices vary widely and it ultimately will come down to your needs. Often your web developer/designer can be of some assistance with recommendations of reputable services or offer hosting.
Maintenance
A question that you will have to answer is how you wish to maintain the website, performing periodic updates of your site's content, be that adding/removing personnel or product information, or even posting regular news and announcements. You basically have two options: hire a professional webmaster, or do it yourself.
