Do you need a web host if you have your own server?

[456]

Also, what are the differences and advantages/disadvantages of each option.
Thanks

[Tracy L]

In most cases a web host is a better option for nearly everyone! Having your own server is fine as long as you have a good high speed business class internet connection. DSL,cable, etc home connections generally prohibit you by terms of service from running a web server. Even if it were allowed you need more outbound speed than most of those allow. Your computer/server has to be online 24/7/365 with backup power and monitoring. Web hosting companies supply more than you think! You also need static public IP addresses, and if you plan on hosting your own DNS you need at least two of those, preferably on separate subnets!

So from a practical standpoint, unless it is just for fun, get a hosting account.

PS: if you are surfing or downloading or watching a video those attempting to reach your server still need to reach it thus you need to monitor real time loads!

[rowlfe]

A "web host" is simply you renting space on a server located elsewhere. You CAN host web pages on your own server. There is nothing stopping you from putting up a server in your home for your own use. Letting it be seen by the outside world is up to the conditions of your ISP. Cable broadband explicitly forbids servers, while DSL generally does NOT restrict you. (the reason has to do with the actual hardware technology of HOW the links work between you and your ISP. DSL is OK with a server, cable is NOT.) In essence, you become your own ISP when you put up a server. Your domain has to point to your IP address assigned to you by your ISP. There ARE dynamic DNS programs which will keep your dynamic address from your ISP up to date in the DNS so your domain name will resolve properly within minutes of your actual IP changing. The real question is this: is it practical to set up a home server? The answer is generally NO for cable broadband, because of the bandwidth limitations usually found in a residential service. Since your DSL link to your ISP is not shared on DSL, your ISP probably will NOT restrict you from using a personal web server. Your ISP on DSL may even help you, if you ask nicely. There ARE free web hosts out there, such as http://ngc1147m.webs.com that I used (in a previous life) when I taught a class on making and editing web pages. I used about 10mb of disk storage. There is a formatting error, intentional, used as a training aid, in the header text being off center because of the calendar in the upper left corner. Scroll down to see the information your browser sends to any web page that you visit, such as your IP address (from your ISP) and location information for that IP address