What’s the Difference Between a Domain, Hosting, and a Website?

If you’ve ever thought, “I bought my domain, so why isn’t my website live?”, you’re not alone. These words get tossed around like everyone should just know what they mean. But most small business owners aren’t in the tech weeds, and honestly? You shouldn’t have to be.

Let’s break it down with a simple metaphor I use all the time: building a house.

🏠 The Domain = Your Address

Your domain is your web address. It’s what people type in to find you online.

• Example: www.pixelandfern.com

• Think of it like your street address. It points people to where you live on the internet.

• You buy this once a year (usually around $10–$20).

However, remember that buying a domain doesn’t automatically give you a house. It’s just the address.

🌳 Hosting = The Land

Hosting is where your website lives.

• If your domain is the street address, hosting is the plot of land where your house sits.

• Without land, your address doesn’t go anywhere. It’s just floating around.

• Hosting usually costs $10–$20/month, depending on the provider.

Good hosting is safe, reliable, and gives your site space to grow.

🛋 The Website = The House

Your website is the actual house you build on that land. It’s the walls, rooms, paint colors, and furniture.

• This is what people see when they “visit” your address.

• Built with tools like Squarespace, WordPress, or Wix (your construction crew + interior designer in one).

• You fill it with your words, images, and personality so it feels like you.

🔑 Why This Matters

A lot of frustration happens because people buy one piece (usually the domain) and expect the whole house to appear. But you need all three working together:

• Domain = Address

• Hosting = Land

• Website = House

Once you see it this way, it feels a lot less mysterious.