If you're just starting out with a website—maybe for your business, blog, or portfolio—shared hosting is a simple and affordable way to get online. Let’s walk through it step-by-step so you know exactly what it is, how it works, and how to use it.
Imagine renting an apartment in a big building. You have your own space, but you share the building, water, and electricity with others. That’s what shared hosting is like.
With shared hosting, your website “lives” on a server (a computer) that also hosts other websites. You share the space and resources (like memory and storage), which keeps the cost low—perfect for beginners.
To use shared hosting, you’ll need to sign up with a web hosting company. These are popular and beginner-friendly options:
Namecheap
GoDaddy
Bluehost
HostGator
Each of them offers shared hosting plans with simple features like a free website builder, email addresses, and customer support.
Look for these beginner-friendly features:
Easy control panel (often called cPanel or Plesk)
Free SSL certificate (helps keep your site secure)
24/7 customer support
One-click WordPress install (if you want to build your site with WordPress)
Most hosting companies offer several shared hosting plans—usually called something like “Stellar,” “Basic,” or “Starter.”
If you're just getting started:
Choose the cheapest plan that allows you to host at least one website
Make sure it includes email accounts and free domain registration if you don't have a domain yet
You can always upgrade later as your site grows.
Your domain name is your website's address—like mybusiness.com.
When you buy shared hosting, you’ll usually have two options:
Get a new domain: You can register a brand-new domain through the hosting company.
Use a domain you already have: If you’ve already bought a domain (for example, from Namecheap), you can connect it to your hosting.
Most providers will guide you through this during the signup process.
After you purchase the plan, you’ll get access to your control panel—a simple dashboard where you manage your website.
It’s kind of like the control panel on your phone where you adjust settings, but for your website.
Here you can:
Install WordPress or other site builders
Create email accounts (like info@mybusiness.com)
Upload files to your website
Manage backups and security
Don’t worry—most of it is point-and-click and has helpful labels. Plus, customer support is there if you ever get stuck.
If you're not a web designer, a website builder can help you create a beautiful website without coding.
There are two popular options:
WordPress: Very flexible, used by millions. You can install it with one click from your control panel.
Built-in website builders: Many hosts have drag-and-drop builders that are even simpler than WordPress.
Either way, you'll be guided step by step.
Once your website builder is set up, it’s time to add your pages. Start with:
A home page (your welcome page)
An about page (tell people who you are)
A contact page (so visitors can reach you)
You can also add photos, services, blog posts, or anything else your visitors might find helpful.
Most shared hosting plans include a free SSL certificate. This gives your site the little padlock symbol in browsers and keeps information safe.
Look for a button in your control panel to enable SSL—or ask support to help.
Even though you're on shared hosting, you're still in control of your site. Make sure to:
Keep WordPress and plugins updated (if using WordPress)
Check your email accounts regularly
Use the backup tool (most hosts have one-click backup options)
These little habits will help your site stay safe and working smoothly.
Shared hosting is designed to be easy, but you don’t have to figure it all out on your own.
Every hosting company has support teams you can contact by chat or email. If something isn’t working or you're unsure what to do—just ask. That’s what they’re there for.
