Domain Host vs Registrar: Which One Do You Need?

Note: This article was updated on April 15, 2025

When you’re building a website, one of the first things you’ll need is a domain name and a place to host your site. But this often brings up a common question: what’s the difference between a domain registrar and a hosting provider?

It’s easy to get tripped up by the technical terms, especially when the same company sometimes offers both services. But understanding how they’re different, and how they work together,  is essential if you want your website to run smoothly and stay online.

In this article, we’ll break it all down in plain language, so you can move forward with confidence and avoid costly mistakes as you set up your site.

What is a Domain Host?

A domain host (sometimes called a web host) is the company that stores your website’s files and makes them available online. Think of it like renting space for your business, but instead of a storefront, you’re paying for space on a server.

When someone types your website address into their browser, your domain host delivers the content of your site so it appears on their screen. Without a domain host, your site wouldn’t be accessible to anyone.

There are a few common types of web hosting:

• Shared Hosting: The most affordable option. Your site shares a server with other websites, which keeps costs down. Great for small sites with lower traffic.
• VPS Hosting: A step up. You still share a server, but you get your own dedicated portion of it. Good for growing businesses that need more control.
• Dedicated Hosting: You rent an entire server just for your site. It’s the most powerful and most expensive option. Usually best for large, high-traffic websites.
  

Choosing the right host affects how fast your site loads, how much traffic it can handle, and how reliable it is. If your website is slow or often down, it can hurt your credibility and cost you customers. That’s why web hosting is a big part of the overall experience your business delivers online.

What is a Domain Registrar? 

A domain registrar is a company that manages the reservation of internet domain names. In simpler terms, a domain registrar is where you go to purchase your website’s unique address – the URL that users type into their browser to visit your site, like www.yourbusinessname.com.

The role of a domain registrar is to help you select and register your unique domain name. These companies have been accredited by the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), a non-profit organization responsible for managing and coordinating the Internet’s Domain Name System.

Here’s a brief overview of the process of acquiring a domain name:

1. Check for Availability: First, you need to make sure your desired domain name is available. This is done through a domain name search on the registrar’s website.
2. Register the Domain: If your preferred domain name is available, you can proceed to register it. This often involves choosing the registration period (usually between 1 to 10 years) and providing your contact information.
3. Payment and Confirmation: Once you’ve filled out all the necessary information, you’ll proceed to payment. After your payment is processed, you’ll receive a confirmation, and the domain name will be officially yours for the duration of your registration period.

Remember, your domain name is your website’s digital address and part of your online brand, so it’s crucial to choose a name that aligns with your business and is easy for users to remember.

Managing Hosting and Domain Names

Once you’ve purchased a domain name and chosen a hosting provider, the next question is whether to manage both services through the same company or keep them separate. Each option has its pros and cons, and the right choice depends on what works best for your business.

Managing both through a single provider can certainly simplify things, especially if you’re not tech-savvy. You’ll have one account, one dashboard, and often fewer configuration steps. Some companies even offer bundled discounts or auto-setup tools that make it easier to get your website online quickly.

On the other hand, separating your domain and hosting can give you more flexibility. You might prefer one provider for their domain management tools or pricing, and another for more reliable or secure hosting. As long as your domain is correctly pointed to your host (something most providers will walk you through), having them separate isn’t a problem.

Whether you bundle them or not, what matters most is that you stay organized and keep track of your login credentials, renewal dates, and settings, so your website stays online and your domain remains in your control.

Frequently Asked Questions About Domains and Hosting

Do I need both a domain and hosting to launch a website?

Yes. Think of your domain as your street address, and your hosting as the physical building. You need both for your site to be live: the domain helps people find you, and hosting stores and displays your content.

What happens if I don’t renew my domain name?

If you don’t renew it, your domain will eventually expire and become available for someone else to purchase. That can result in losing your web address, traffic, and even credibility with your audience. Most registrars offer auto-renewal to help prevent this.

Can I transfer my domain name to a different registrar or host?

Yes, you can transfer your domain to a different registrar or point it to a different hosting provider. It’s common to start with one provider and later switch for better pricing, service, or features. Just be sure to follow the correct steps and avoid downtime during the transfer.

Is a domain the same as a website?

Not quite. A domain is your web address, which is what people type into their browser to find you. A website is the collection of files, pages, and functionality users interact with once they arrive. You need hosting to store and display that website, and a domain to make it easy to find.

How do I choose the right hosting plan for my business website?

Consider your website’s size, expected traffic, and functionality. Basic websites can often start with shared hosting, while ecommerce sites or high-traffic blogs may benefit from a VPS or dedicated plan. Make sure the provider allows for upgrades as you grow.

Final Thoughts: Setting Your Website Up for Success

Understanding the difference between domain registration and web hosting is one of those foundational steps that can feel confusing at first, but it’s an important part of launching a professional, reliable website. Whether you’re building your first site or looking to improve your current setup, knowing how these elements work together gives you more control over your online presence.

That said, most business owners don’t want to spend their time researching hosting options or troubleshooting tech issues. That’s where Vervology comes in.

We handle the entire process – from building your website to hosting and maintaining your website – so you don’t have to worry about the technical details. And once your site is live, we stick with you, offering ongoing support, strategic guidance, and content services to help you grow.

If you’re looking for a partner who can simplify the digital side of your business, let’s talk. Get in touch with our team to learn more.