Website Terminology 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Hosting, Domains, and More

Building a website can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re hit with unfamiliar terms like domains, hosting, SSL, and CMS. But don’t worry—we’re here to break it all down in simple terms.

1. Domain Name: Your Website’s Address

A domain name is your website’s unique address on the internet (e.g., www.yourbusiness.com). It’s what people type in to find your site.

• You purchase a domain through registrars like GoDaddy or Namecheap.
• Domains typically cost $15–$30 per year.

2. Web Hosting: Where Your Website Lives

‍Web hosting is the space where your website’s files, images, and content are stored. Think of it as renting land for your digital storefront.

• Shared Hosting – Budget-friendly but slower performance.
• VPS Hosting – More power, better for growing sites.
• Dedicated Hosting – Full control, best for high-traffic sites.

At Yūgen Media, we provide managed hosting, so you never have to worry about technical maintenance.

‍3. SSL Certificate: Keeping Your Website Secure

‍Ever notice the padlock icon in your browser? That’s SSL (Secure Sockets Layer).

• An SSL certificate encrypts your website’s data, making it secure for visitors.
• It also boosts SEO and builds customer trust.

Most professional websites must have SSL, especially if you collect user data.

‍4. CMS (Content Management System): The Tool Behind Your Website

‍A CMS (Content Management System) allows you to build and manage your website without coding.

• WordPress – The most popular CMS (great for blogs and businesses).
• Webflow – Modern, design-friendly option.
• Shopify – Best for eCommerce stores.

5. Responsive Design: Why Your Website Must Work on Mobile

‍Responsive design ensures your website adapts to different screen sizes (phones, tablets, desktops).

• Google prioritizes mobile-friendly websites in search rankings.
• If your site isn’t responsive, you could be losing potential customers.

Why This Matters

‍Understanding these basic terms helps you make informed decisions about your website. And if you don’t want to deal with the technical side, we handle everything for you at Yūgen Digital—from domains and hosting to design and security.Need a website that works for you? Let’s get started!