How to put your website on the internet so anyone in the world can visit it, plus how to get your own custom web address.
Think of it this way: your website is a bunch of files. Hosting is renting a computer that is always on, always connected to the internet, and serves those files to anyone who visits your web address.
The code, images, and content that make up your website live on a hosting server.
The web address people type in (like yourname.com) points to your hosting server.
The padlock in your browser. Encrypts data so visitors are safe. Most hosts add this for free.
These services take your project files and put them on the internet. Most have a generous free tier.
Best for Next.js & React
Made by the creators of Next.js. Push your code to GitHub and your site is live in seconds. Extremely fast and reliable.
If you built your site with Next.js, Vercel is the easiest choice. Just connect your GitHub repo and you are done.
Great for static sites
Drag and drop your project folder or connect GitHub. Includes forms, authentication, and serverless functions.
Netlify has a drag-and-drop deploy feature. Just drag your project folder onto their dashboard.
Full-stack hosting
Host websites, APIs, and databases in one place. Great if your project has a backend or needs a database.
Simple infrastructure
Deploy apps, databases, and background jobs with one click. Very beginner-friendly dashboard.
Free static hosting
Completely free hosting for simple websites, directly from your GitHub repository. Perfect for portfolios and landing pages.
GitHub Pages only works for static sites (no backend). Perfect for portfolios and simple projects.
A domain is your web address (like yourname.com). Here is how to get one.
Once you have a domain and a hosting platform, here is how to connect them. Tell your AI tool to help you with the specific steps.
Pick a registrar and purchase your domain name.
Go to your hosting dashboard (Vercel, Netlify, etc.) and add your custom domain.
Your host will give you DNS records. Add them at your domain registrar.
DNS changes take 5 minutes to 48 hours. Your host will confirm when it is ready.
"I bought a domain on Namecheap and my site is hosted on Vercel. Walk me through connecting my custom domain step by step, including what DNS records to add."
Most platforms have a free tier that is perfect for learning and small projects.
The padlock icon you see in your browser address bar. It means the connection between your visitor and your website is encrypted and secure.
