Broadband ISPs
GUIDE

How is an ISP Different From a Web Host?

Description: Different people have different needs when it comes to going online. Some people want to set up their own website, while others simply want to surf and find out all kinds of information. That's why it's worth finding out the difference between an ISP and a web host, to see which one will provide the services you need.

So what is the difference? Well, an ISP is an internet service provider, and is a company which you pay to get them to connect you to the internet. An ISP can provide this access in a number of ways, from cable internet to DSL internet, right through to satellite and wireless services as well. Most companies will offer just one option, so it's up to you to find a company which offers the type of service you want at a price you can afford.

A web host, on the other hand, is a company which you would go to if you want to create your own website and upload it to the internet. You will pay the web host a monthly fee to host your site and make it available online.

In essence then, the difference between the two is that an internet service provider grants you access to go online and surf the net. A web host grants you access to their server, where you can store your website and make it available to other people on the internet who might find and view it.

Both an ISP and a web host are obviously important to you if you want to get online with your website and start marketing your business to other people. You will need internet access to be able to upload your finished website to the web host's servers once you have designed it and it's ready to go live.

Getting a good deal on each service is paramount to getting good results. You also want a reliable internet service provider whose service isn't going to be unavailable when you need to check and review your website, or go online to check your sales, for example.

As such it's a good idea to ask around to see which providers and web hosts come highly recommended, as it can be a pain to have to transfer to someone else later on down the line.