For a website to be accessible on the World Wide Web, it must be hosted on a server.  A server is typically a larger computer specifically set up to house web sites. While some organizations, typically those that are larger, host their own sites, professional web hosting companies host websites for organizations from very small to mammoth in size.  Many of these professional web hosts offer free site hosting.  In addition to faculty use, this free hosting can be an alternative for course use in universities that do not host student websites, or for students who want a dependable host that will continue to house their site after graduation.

Free web hosting services

Many organizations do not place advertisements on the free hosted sites.These services typically offer the free hosting to give a sample of their services, in the hope that the hosted sites someday will grow into paid sites, or that those who have a positive individual experience with the host company will encourage current or future employers to consider the host’s paid services.

Primary technical considerations when selecting a web host

(Table entries reflect attributes of free accounts with these professional hosting services)

Primary usability considerations when selecting a web host

(Table entries reflect attributes of free accounts with these professional hosting services)