A domain name (like example.com) is the address people type to find your site. Web hosting is the server space where your site's files are stored. The domain points to the hosting through DNS settings.
The core difference
Who sells what
Registrars such as Domain.com, Network Solutions and BigRock specialize in domains (and also sell hosting). Hosts such as Hostinger, Bluehost, Hosting.com and UltaHost specialize in hosting (and often sell domains too).
Top-Rated Providers
1
Our Top Pick
Hostinger
Read ReviewLow-cost, beginner-friendly hosting with its own hPanel, included backups and data centers worldwide
- From ~$2-$3/mo (48-mo term)
- Free domain on Premium & up
- Weekly or daily backups included
- 4.6 on Trustpilot
9.7
Exceptional
9.7
Exceptional
Low-cost, beginner-friendly hosting with its own hPanel, included backups and data centers worldwide
- From ~$2-$3/mo (48-mo term)
- Free domain on Premium & up
- Weekly or daily backups included
- 4.6 on Trustpilot
See Current Pricing
2
Bluehost
Read ReviewA long-time WordPress favorite with a guided dashboard, free first-year domain and 24/7 phone and chat support
- Starter, Business & Pro plans
- Free domain for year one
- WordPress-first dashboard
- In business since 2003
9.4
Excellent
9.4
Excellent
A long-time WordPress favorite with a guided dashboard, free first-year domain and 24/7 phone and chat support
- Starter, Business & Pro plans
- Free domain for year one
- WordPress-first dashboard
- In business since 2003
3
Hosting.com
Read ReviewThe new name for A2 Hosting - cPanel hosting with LiteSpeed-powered speed tiers, VPS and dedicated servers
- Formerly A2 Hosting
- cPanel control panel
- LiteSpeed on Turbo tiers
- Shared, VPS & dedicated
9.2
Excellent
9.2
Excellent
The new name for A2 Hosting - cPanel hosting with LiteSpeed-powered speed tiers, VPS and dedicated servers
- Formerly A2 Hosting
- cPanel control panel
- LiteSpeed on Turbo tiers
- Shared, VPS & dedicated
Together or separate?
Buying both from one company is simpler. Keeping them separate means you can switch hosts by changing DNS, without transferring the domain. Either way works - just note the domain's renewal price after any free first year. Compare hosts on our rankings page.
This article is general information. Prices, features and renewal terms vary by provider, plan, term length and region and change often - always confirm current pricing on the provider's site before you buy.