Short version 

The digital files that make up your website are held on a computer, known as a server, that is set up so that it is easily accessible by browsers over the Internet. Part of your Hosting fee is essentially rent for using this storage space, the power used to run it and the software to control it. A larger part is to cover our time checking,  monitoring and updating the servers.

Our hosting fees usually include a basic level of support for your website as well.

Longer read

Understanding Web Hosting: Why Your Website Needs a Reliable Server

When you visit a website, you’re accessing digital files—HTML, CSS, images, and databases—that are stored on a specialized computer called a server. This server is configured to be always online, securely managed, and easily reachable by web browsers worldwide.

At its core, web hosting is the service that provides the infrastructure needed to keep your website running. But what exactly are you paying for when you buy hosting? Let’s break it down.

What Does Your Hosting Fee Cover?

1. Server Space (Your Website’s "Digital Rent")

Your hosting fee partly covers the cost of storing your website’s files on a high-performance server. Unlike a regular computer, these machines are built for:

• 24/7 uptime – They never shut down.

• High-speed connections – Fast data transfer to visitors worldwide.

• Enterprise-grade hardware – Built to handle constant use without failing.

2. Power & Maintenance Costs

Running a server isn’t cheap. It requires:

• Electricity – Servers consume significant power and need cooling.

• Software licenses – Security patches, firewalls, and server management tools.

• Physical security – Data centers have strict access controls.

3. Monitoring & Support (The Hidden Cost of Reliability)

The biggest part of your hosting fee goes toward human expertise. Our team ensures:

• Server health checks – Preventing crashes before they happen.

• Security updates – Protecting against hackers and malware.

• Performance optimization – Keeping your site fast and responsive.

Most hosting plans also include basic technical support, so you’re not left troubleshooting server issues alone.

Cloud Servers vs. Traditional Hosting

Many businesses now use cloud hosting (like AWS, Shopify, or Wix) because it offers:

• Scalability – Easily handle traffic spikes.

• Redundancy – If one server fails, another takes over.

• Global reach – Faster loading times worldwide.

However, managed hosting (like ours) is often better, and less expensive, for businesses that need:
✔ Personalized support
✔ Server-level customizations
✔ Better security for sensitive data

Why Can’t I Host My Website on an Old Computer?

Technically, you could host a site from a home PC—but it’s a terrible idea because:

• Power outages – Your site goes down when your home electricity does.

• Slow speeds – Home internet isn’t built for server demands.

• Security risks – Hackers could breach your network.

• Disaster vulnerability – Floods (like Doncaster’s 2007 floods) or fires could wipe out your setup.

• Connectivity - In more remote areas the internet can be cut off, meaning your website is not accessible.

Professional data centers have backup generators, enterprise firewalls, and multiple internet providers to prevent these issues.

What Happens If a Server Fails?

In a our hosting setup, downtime is minimized by:

• Server clusters – Multiple machines share the load; if one fails, others compensate.

• Automatic backups – Your data is restored quickly.

• 24/7 monitoring – Issues are detected and fixed before they affect users.

For high-frequency trading firms (like in Flash Boys by Michael Lewis), even a millisecond delay costs millions. While most websites don’t need that level of speed, reliability is always critical.

Conclusion: Good Hosting Is an Investment, Not Just a Cost

Cheap hosting often means slow speeds, frequent crashes, and poor security. A quality hosting provider ensures:
✅ Maximum uptime (your site stays online)
✅ Fast load times (better for SEO and user experience)
✅ Strong security (protection against hackers)
✅ Expert support (help when you need it)

If you’re serious about your website, where it’s hosted matters just as much as how it’s built.