Stage 1 · Lesson 2 of 7
Hosting: self-hosted or hosted platform
Hosting is the computer that stores a site and sends it to visitors. WordPress is software you install on hosting you rent. is cheap, but many sites crowd onto one server.
A (virtual private server) gives you a whole server, which you must manage yourself. Managed hosting, such as managed WordPress hosting, adds updates, backups, a copy for testing, and support. Shopify and Webflow work differently.
They are hosted platforms, also called SaaS (software as a service). You pay a monthly plan, and they run the servers, the security fixes and the growth in traffic. Neither model is better in general.
The right choice depends on what the client sells, how much control they need and who will look after the site. This choice shapes every later stage, from what you can customise to what goes in a maintenance plan.
Common trapchoosing by the lowest monthly price and ignoring who will patch, back up and support the site.
A question to check yourself, an AI practice session and 1 cheat sheet entry come with the full roadmap. Unlock
Resources for this stage
Start with· follow one of these
- GuideFreeMDN Web Docs
Mozilla
Free, accurate learning area for HTML, CSS and how the web works; the reference every builder keeps open
- GuideFreeW3Schools
W3Schools · Beginner
Short beginner examples of HTML and CSS you can edit in the browser straight away
Practise
Keep handy
Also worth your time
- web.devGo deeper
Google's guides on responsive design, images and performance for when the basics feel solid