How to Host Your Own Website: Beginner Guide

Understanding website hosting is the first step for small business owners and new developers looking to launch a website in 2025. Hosting is the process of storing and maintaining your site on a server, making it accessible online.

As a result, users can access your business via your website address in search engines such as Google, Microsoft Bing, Yahoo Search, and Yandex. A hosting server delivers your data, files, or information to the end user looking for your site. Shared hosting and VPS (Virtual Private Server) hosting are the most popular hosting services, depending on your business needs.

A self-hosted website is optimal for your small business because it gives you full control over your online presence in SERP. It allows customization, flexibility, and improved security, positively impacting your website performance. Research conducted by Zippia found that 73% (nearly three-quarters) of small businesses in the United States have a professional website, as shown below:

What You Need to Host Your Website

Learning to host your website in 2025 does not need to be as complicated as it was in the past. The following are some key factors to consider when hosting your own website successfully.

Domain Name Basics

Selecting a domain name is the first requirement when hosting your website. Your domain name is your website’s address, which makes you visible online. Choosing a relevant and memorable domain name is crucial for discoverability and branding on the Internet. 

The following is an example of a domain name and what each element stands for:

In this case, inmotionhosting.com is the domain name. 

When choosing a domain name, consider the following best practices:

• Ensure your selected domain name aligns with your business name and branding.
• Optimize your domain with relevant keywords to improve SEO rankings.
• Select relevant and reputable domain extensions. Common selections include .org, .com, and .net.
• Ensure compliance with domain privacy protection to avoid exposure of personal data.

Hosting Requirements

Hosting has several requirements that every small business owner or developer should be aware of. Knowing hosting requirements, such as cost and site management needs, will help you select the best hosting plan for your business. 

The type of hosting required usually depends on various factors such as security needs, site operation, and traffic. The table below highlights different types of hosting and their requirements. 

Basic Technical Requirements

A seamless hosting provider needs to support the following basic technical requirements of website hosting:

• SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) Certificates for data protection and better search engine rankings.
• A robust control panel such as cPanel or Control Web Panel to manage your server.
• Easy and simple installation of CMS (Content Management System) platforms like WordPress.
• Features a secure backup solution to safeguard the site against data loss.
• 24/7 technical support channels and additional professional solutions.
• Scalability that allows businesses to upgrade their hosting plans as the site attracts more traffic.
• Adequate storage for files and other information.

Estimated Budget Considerations

Many businesses start with shared hosting because it is affordable and includes basic features and performance. However, as traffic increases, VPS hosting or another advanced type of hosting might be needed for better security features and functionality. 

Depending on your estimated budget, these hosting types are designed to cater to all business needs. Here is a summary of the hosting features and their estimated figures:

For premium and easy-to-use hosting, consider InMotion Hosting. InMotion Hosting includes essential features such as SSL certificates, professional email hosting, and domain registration to ensure easy site management and better performance. 

Choosing the Right Type of Hosting: All You Need to Know

The right web hosting solution is essential for promoting robust security, performance, and scalability. Here is a breakdown of the three major types of hosting- shared, VPS, and dedicated hosting- along with their features and benefits:

1. Shared Hosting 

Generally, shared hosting is ideal for portfolio sites, blogs, small businesses, and personal websites. It involves hosting many websites on a single server, sharing the same resources. If you’re launching your website for the first time, shared hosting might be the most suitable hosting type. 

Several small businesses are choosing shared hosting because of its affordability and ease of use, unlike other types of web hosting.

Shared hosting primarily ranges from $1 to $15 per month.

2. VPS Hosting (Virtual Private Server)

VPS hosting is ideal for eCommerce, growing businesses, and websites that need high performance and control. Unlike shared hosting, VPS hosting partitions a physical server into several virtual servers. This technique offers users greater flexibility and resources at a reasonable price. 

Benefits of VPS Hosting

• Robust performance
• Greater website control
• Improved performance

When to Upgrade 

You might consider upgrading from shared hosting to VPS due to the following:

• Experiencing slow load times because of abrupt traffic increases.
• Shared hosting does not support some software or applications.
• Managing critical customer data that needs advanced security measures.

Performance Metrics

With better speed, dedicated resources, reliability, and consistency, VPS hosting provides users with better performance than shared hosting. 

This type of hosting generally ranges from $20 to $100 per month, depending on allocated resources.

3. Dedicated Hosting

Dedicated hosting is best for high-traffic websites, large enterprises, and mission-critical applications. This type of hosting comes with an entire physical server solely for a single client. A dedicated server stands out above other hosting types because it ensures maximum performance with better customization options and robust security.

Enterprise Requirements

Here are some of the enterprise requirements while using a dedicated type of hosting:

• Large-scale eCommerce platforms
• SaaS (Software as a Service) applications and high-traffic media
• Strict HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act), PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard), etc. compliance.

Performance Benefits

Dedicated hosting provides users with the following:

• Better power and speed
• Full site customization
• Scalability

Security Advantages

Robust website security is one of the unmatched features that dedicated hosting comes with. Dedicated hosting allows easy configurations of firewalls, encryption protocols, and DDoS (Distributed Denial-of-Service) protection. Additionally, the isolation of the site from others lowers the risk of hacking attempts and malware. 

InMotion’s hosting solutions are highly secure and include NVMe (nonvolatile memory express) servers for up to 20x faster performance, ensuring lightning-fast load times and enhanced reliability for business-critical websites. 

Depending on server specifications, dedicated hosting ranges from $100 to $500+ per month.

Platform-Specific Hosting Requirements

Choosing the right hosting environment is essential for maximum security, optimal performance, and scalability. Particular platforms, such as membership sites, eCommerce stores, and Learning Management Systems (LMS), have more specific requirements. 

The following are specific hosting requirements for each of these platforms, acquainting you with the detailed infrastructure needed to suit your unique demands:

1. eCommerce Hosting Requirements

WooCommerce Optimization

WooCommerce stores need a high-performance hosting environment for better outcomes. According to research conducted by Unbounce, a one-second delay in website page load time can result in a 7% reduction in conversions. Additionally, 53% of mobile users leave a site if it takes too long to load. 

Therefore, you must ensure your hosting plan can manage traffic hikes, especially during peak periods such as shopping days, special event days, or Black Fridays, to deter lost sales and downtime. 

Payment Processing Needs

Compliance with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard is compulsory for efficient processing and transactions, including the implementation of secure payment gateways.

Security Requirements

Some of the eCommerce security requirements include the following;

• Implementation of SSL
• Regular security audits
• Compliance with data protection regulations, including GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation)

2. Membership Site Hosting

User Management Considerations

To host this website or platform, you’ll need the following:

• Easy access control. Your membership site should have robust systems to control user permission and roles, ensuring members can easily access suitable content at their convenience.
• Scalability. Select a hosting plan that accommodates a growing user base without interfering with the site’s performance. 

Database optimization

Data optimization involves optimizing database queries to lower the load times and boost user experience. Similarly, routine database maintenance, such as cleaning up unnecessary data and indexing, is essential to maintaining optimal website functionality. Additionally, you can use caching to reduce database load and increase site speed load time. 

3. Learning management systems

File Storage Requirements

Learning management systems must ensure sufficient storage capacity for documents, videos, and presentations. In addition, implementing regular backups to prevent data loss and enhance recovery in case of system failure is crucial in learning management systems.

Bandwidth Considerations

Learning management systems often need higher bandwidth to support several users who are accessing the content at the same time. Sufficient bandwidth always ensures seamless live sessions and the delivery of materials.

If you’re looking for a convenient hosting environment, InMotion is a good option. Its optimized WordPress hosting is designed with specialized configurations for eCommerce and membership sites, ensuring enhanced performance and security tailored to your platform’s needs.

Step-by-Step Website Hosting Setup

Setting up your website involves different steps, from selecting a suitable domain name to installing a website platform of your choice. Here is a comprehensive step-by-step guide to help you through a website hosting setup:

1. Register Your Domain Name

The domain name serves as the address of your website on the Internet. For example, www.inmotionhosting.com is a domain name that follows all the basics of a properly designed domain name.

Here’s how to register one:

Step 1: Select a reputable registrar for your domain name, such as InMotion Hosting.

Step 2: Search for domain availability

Use your domain registrar’s search tool to confirm the availability of your preferred domain name, as shown below:

Step 3: Purchase the domain

This step involves purchasing your domain name if it’s available. Follow the prompts in your registrar’s search tool and register your domain name.

2. Select a Hosting Plan

After purchasing your domain name, select a hosting plan that works for your business. Follow these steps to select the best hosting plan for your business:

• Assess your website needs.

Determine your business needs and choose a hosting plan accordingly. Data security, the type of content you will have on your website, and eCommerce needs are examples of factors that you’ll need to account for. Once you have determined your business’s needs, you will know whether to select shared, VPS, or dedicated hosting.

• Compare hosting providers.

Compare hosting providers, including Bluehost, InMotion Hosting, or SiteGround. Here is a general overview of the above hosting providers:

Once you have compared the above hosting plans, choose a plan that fits your budget and meets your criteria to host your website.

3. Connect Domain to Hosting

Connecting your domain name to hosting is a significant step that allows visitors and clients to access your site using your preferred domain name. The following steps will help you to connect your domain name to your selected hosting;

Step 1: Receive nameserver details

After you’ve purchased your domain name from a reputable domain registrar, the hosting provider will offer you nameserver information, which might follow this layout: ns1. Yourhost.com, ns2.yourhost.com

Step 2: Update domain settings

Domain updates are essential to host your website. Log in to your domain registrar’s dashboard, move to the DNS settings, and replace the existing nameservers with those your selected hosting provider offers.

Allow up to 48 hours for the changes to occur.

4. Install your website platform.

A Content Management System (commonly known as a CMS), such as WordPress, makes it easy to add and manage content. To install a CMS properly, follow these steps;

• Sign in to your hosting account’s panel (cPanel)
• Locate tools such as Fantastico within your cPanel for immediate installation.
• Select your preferred CMS and follow the installation instructions.

InMotion Hosting’s Launch Assist service offers free setup assistance from expert technicians, ensuring a smooth and efficient website launch.

Migrating Your Existing Website

Website migration is a critical process that needs careful planning and process execution to facilitate a smooth website transition. Each phase of website migration comes with different instructions.

Pre-Migration Checklist

The pre-migration checklist includes the following;

• Back up your current website files and data.
• Perform a thorough review of your website’s structure.
• Update your DNS settings.
• Decide when to migrate your website, considering the peak traffic periods or seasons. 
• Design a simple page to update your visitors about your site maintenance. 

Minimizing Downtime During Transfer

Here are the best practices to consider during this phase.

• Select the right time to initiate website migration, usually during off-peak periods.
• Minimize the downtime by reducing the TTL (Time to live).
• Keep the old site live until the new site is fully tested and completed.

Common Migration Pitfalls

While conducting the website migration process, common mistakes include:

• Broken links and missing pages
• Loss of website information and data
• Themes incompatibility and plugins
• SEO (Search Engine Optimization) drop, if not handled with utmost care

Post-Migration Testing

After you have migrated your site, follow these post-migration practices:

• Test all website operational features, including shopping carts, forms, and interactive features, to ensure they perform well and correctly on the new server.
• Use tools like Google PageSpeed Insights to examine and evaluate the site’s functionality and make necessary adjustments.
• Conduct cross-browsing and device testing.
• Monitor error logs.
• Encourage users to give feedback on mistakes detected after migrating the site.

InMotion Hosting offers a free website migration service handled by their expert migration team, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free transition to their hosting platform.

Professional Email Hosting Setup

A professional email setup on your website is important for efficient and smooth communication with your customers. You can set up a professional email through the following steps;

Step 1: Choosing an Email Hosting Solution 

You can either opt for an integrated hosting plan or dedicated email services. Integrated hosting includes email services, which allow you to easily manage your website’s incoming emails. On the other hand, you can use dedicated email services like Google Workspace, which have advanced tools and features. 

Step 2: Email Migration Steps

Email migration consists of four steps:

1. Backup of existing emails
2. Set up new accounts for your emails 
3. Use migration tools to transfer your email to a new platform
4. Update or modify your domain’s MX (Mail Exchange) records to point to the new email host

Security Best Practices

Email security best practices include:

• Use of strong passwords
• Enable 2FA (2-Factor Authentication)
• Consistent and careful management of client emails

Business Tool Integration

Integrate your email with calendar apps for efficient scheduling. Similarly, you can connect emails to Customer Relationship Management (CRM) tools to streamline client interactions.

All InMotion business hosting plans include professional email hosting, providing a comprehensive solution for your business communication needs.

Maintenance Best Practices

Once you understand how to host your website, select the best hosting environment, and migrate your website, should you need to improve it, the next step is learning how to maintain it. 

Here are the best website maintenance practices you should incorporate after launching your website:

1. Regular Backup Schedule

Regular backups are one of the best website maintenance practices. This practice protects your website information and data from loss, system failure, or cyber threats. Backups should be automated and kept in several locations for reliability and added security.

2. Security Updates

Keeping software up-to-date helps to prevent vulnerabilities that hackers could exploit. Regular security patches and updates ensure your system is intact and protected against emerging threats.

3. Performance monitoring

Performance monitoring helps to identify and resolve bottlenecks before they greatly impact users. Continuous examination of server and application performance is key. Important metrics to track include uptime, load times, and error rates. Tracking these metrics and acting on any areas of concern ensures seamless operation and a great user experience.  

4. Resource optimization

Proper use of server resources such as memory, CPU (Central Processing Unit), and bandwidth can profoundly boost performance and lower costs. Therefore, regularly optimizing databases, caching mechanisms, and CDNs (Content Delivery Networks) can improve the site’s efficiency and speed.

InMotion’s managed hosting includes automatic updates and daily backups, ensuring your website stays secure and optimized without manual intervention.

Conclusion

Learning all the fundamentals of how to host your website is a pivotal step towards creating robust online visibility. By acquainting yourself with different hosting plans and aligning them with your budget, you can successfully launch your website and showcase your brand. 

You must determine the nature and needs of your website, choose a suitable hosting type, and implement strong security measures to set up your website effectively. Research and compare the best and most cost-effective providers, and choose one that accommodates all your requirements for the best results.

Should you have a problem setting up your website, seek expert assistance for more guidance. 

Collaborate with InMotion Hosting for the best and most reliable hosting globally. Benefit from 24/7 expert support and enjoy a free domain with your hosting plan. 

Take the first step toward a successful online presence today!