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ISP, Domain Names, Web Hosts, And Email Servers
ISP, Domain Names, Web Hosts, And Email Servers
Knowing the difference between an ISP, a domain name, a Web host, and an email server, can bolster clear communication. Below is a brief explanation of how each of these names function in relation to a Web site.
ISP – Internet Service Provider: An ISP is how you receive your Internet functionality on your computer. This may be provided by a phone company or another 3rd party company. Your ISP has nothing to do with who hosts your Web site. If your ISP goes down, you will not be able to access anyone’s Web site, including your own. When your ISP is down you often receive the annoying, “Server can’t be found” message.
Domain Name – This is the Web site name you have registered as your own. Your domain name is NOT your Web host. Generally, you or your Web developer will purchase your domain name, online, and you will be listed as the owner of that domain name. Always keep this information in a safe place and make a note of when your domain name expires and the DNS (Domain Name Server’s IP address). If you let your domain expire, it automatically comes up for sale and anyone, including your competition, can purchase it. Also, you need this information to be readily available if you decide to switch Web hosts.
Web Host – This is the company who actually hosts your Web site and, in most cases, the emails associated with your domain name. When you or your Web master sets up a new account with a Web hosting company, they will use the DNS information provided from the Domain Name registration to “point” the name in the direction of the server. For most companies, your Web site and email are generally on different servers. Because of this, it is possible for your email to go down but your Web site to still be working, and vice versa. If this happens, your best bet is to call your Web hosting service – not your Web designer. Down servers are almost always a Web hosting issue. Your Web host should be able to tell you if they are making repairs or upgrades to the servers, or if they are experiencing any problems.
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