What is WordPress Hosting? A Guide for Beginners

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what is wordpress hosting

WordPress runs over 35% of the entire world wide web.

And, it’s designed for flexibility. WordPress will work for you whether you’re a master web developer or you’ve never seen a line of CSS code before.  

Some of the most stunning websites run on the WordPress content management system (CMS). It makes sense why you want to use it, too.

But, wait. What is WordPress hosting? 

Do you actually need it? How much does it cost? 

If you’re confused or have a lot of questions, don’t worry. You’re in the right place. Keep reading to learn more about WordPress hosting and why you should use it for your website. 

What Is WordPress Hosting?

This is a hosting service tailored for WordPress users. Furthermore, they specialize in easy installation, maintenance, and security for your WordPress website. 

WordPress, like any CMS, has its quirks. It’s a free, open-source software designed for developers and new players alike. With that comes a unique set of problems to overcome. 

But, WordPress hosting providers know what they are and how to combat them. 

FAQ: Is WordPress Hosting Necessary to Use WordPress?

The easy answer is no. You can install WordPress with almost every web hosting service. But, WordPress hosting has advantages that general web hosting providers can’t give you.  

You don’t need a WordPress host but using one is better

Shared vs. Managed WordPress Hosting

Whether you’re on a budget or not, WordPress hosting is affordable. But, you get what you pay for. Understanding the difference between shared and dedicated (or managed) servers is key. 

FAQ: What Is Shared Hosting?

Shared hosting means sharing resources on a server with other WordPress users. Most of the standard shared hosting plans offer:

  • One-click WordPress installation
  • Automatic WordPress software updates
  • Plugin and theme updates

This is a great option for new businesses on a tight budget with little traffic. But, once your website starts gaining traction, you’ll hog up server space. This will slow down everyone else on your server. 

At this point, you need to switch to managed or dedicated hosting services. 

FAQ: What Is Managed or Dedicated Hosting?

Managed and dedicated servers are almost interchangeable but they aren’t exactly the same. A managed server is dedicated but not all dedicated servers are managed. Non-managed dedicated servers aren’t as common so most people ignore them. 

Managed hosts handle everything on the back end for you. Shared hosting is actually managed as well. But, when someone mentions managed hosting they usually mean using a dedicated server. 

A dedicated server means you don’t share the space with other websites. With a dedicated server, you get the benefits of shared hosting plus:

  • Increased site speed
  • Security improvements
  • Better website performance
  • Caching via your server
  • Extra WordPress specific benefits

Benefits of Choosing a WordPress Specific Host

As mentioned, you don’t have to choose a WordPress host to use WordPress. But, doing so has advantages not available by general web hosts. 

Speed and Website Performance

Website speed depends on more than your host. But, your host does make a difference. With WordPress hosting, you can expect a similar performance level at all times. 

Every website on your server is using WordPress. Their servers cater to improving WordPress site performance. But, the difference in site speed may be negligible until you start getting a lot of traffic. 

Customer Service and Hands-on Support

WordPress hosting providers understand the quirks. They know how the platform operates inside and out. When questions arise or problems occur, they know how to help. 

Since WordPress is free, there are no customer service reps to call for help. That’s why choosing a host that can help with technical issues is important.  

WordPress Configuration Management

Some general web hosts offer one-click WordPress installation. But, they usually won’t update the software for you or manage configurations. 

WordPress hosting plans make complicated actions easy because they understand how the guts of the platform work. Things like SSL licenses and staging sites become as simple as a few clicks.  

Security and Malicious Attacks

500+ new WordPress sites popup every day. It’s the most popular CMS for a reason—it’s secure. But, that doesn’t mean it’s impenetrable. 

You could develop a plugin that creates backdoor entrances into someone’s website. If they install it, they’re at your mercy. Anyone can develop and list a plugin in the marketplace. 

WordPress hosts know this and take extra steps to ensure the security of your website. They know what to look for and can spot malicious attacks a mile away.  

Keeping your software and plugins up-to-date also helps keep your site secure. Many WordPress hosting providers manage this for you so you don’t have to worry.  

How Much Does WordPress Hosting Cost?

There’s no easy answer, here. It depends. 

Shared hosting plans tend to start around $5 a month for basic services. Whereas managed (or dedicated) hosting plans can cost hundreds of dollars a month. 

Your choice depends on what you need and what you can afford. 

So… Now What?

Now, you can answer the question “What is WordPress hosting?” with confidence, and you can decide if it’s right for your business. Plus, you know the difference between managed and shared servers. 

Take some time and think about what you need now and what you’ll need in the future. Switching hosts isn’t hard but it doesn’t come without complications. So, think about your long-term expectations.

After you purchase hosting, the next step is learning the ins and outs of the platform. Visit the WordPress blog for tips, tricks, tutorials, and more.