So, you’ve created an awesome HTML website, and now you want to share it with the world. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the process of making your HTML website public. We’ll cover the basics of web hosting and domain names, as well as the steps you’ll need to take to get your site live.
1. Choose a Web Host
The first step to making your website public is to choose a web host. A web host is a service that stores your website files and makes them accessible on the internet. There are many web hosting providers available, ranging from free options to paid services that offer additional features. You can buy dedicated server at an affordable rate that can provide high-quality performance.
Some popular web hosting providers include:
- GitHub Pages – A free hosting service for static websites, perfect for personal projects or small sites.
- Netlify – Offers free and paid plans, a great choice for static sites and single-page applications with continuous deployment.
- Bluehost – A well-known hosting provider with a variety of plans, suitable for larger websites and e-commerce platforms.
2. Upload Your Files to Your Web Host
Once you’ve chosen a web host, you’ll need to upload your website files to their servers. The process for this will vary depending on your hosting provider. Most hosts will offer a web-based interface, such as cPanel or File Manager, where you can upload your files directly.
Alternatively, you can use an FTP client like FileZilla to upload your files. You will need your hosting provider’s FTP credentials (hostname, username, and password) to connect to their server. Once connected, you can simply drag and drop your website files into the public directory on the server.
3. Register a Domain Name (Optional)
While your website will be accessible via a default address provided by your web host, you may want to register a custom domain name to make your site more professional and easier to remember. A domain name is the web address (URL) where your website can be found, such as “example.com”.
You can register a domain name through a domain registrar, such as Namecheap or GoDaddy. Once you’ve registered your domain, you’ll need to point it to your web hosting provider’s servers by updating the domain’s DNS settings. Your hosting provider will typically provide you with the necessary information for this.
4. Test Your Website
Once you’ve uploaded your files and (optionally) set up your domain name, it’s time to test your website. Open a web browser and enter your website’s URL (either your custom domain name or the default address provided by your web host) in the address bar.
Your website should now be publicly accessible! If you encounter any issues, double-check your uploaded files and DNS settings, and consult your hosting provider’s documentation or support for assistance.
Conclusion
Now you know the basics of making your HTML website public. With a web host, your uploaded files, and an optional custom domain name, you’re ready to share your site with the world. As you continue to develop and expand your website, you may wish to explore additional features or services offered by your hosting provider, such as SSL certificates or content delivery networks, to enhance your site’s performance and security.