What is a self-hosted website?
A self-hosted website is one where you control the hosting environment. You rent a server from a hosting provider, install the software you choose, and are responsible for maintenance, security, and updates. This is the opposite of a managed platform like Wix or Squarespace, where the hosting and software are bundled together.
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WordPress.org (as opposed to WordPress.com) is the most common example of self-hosted software. You download WordPress for free, install it on your own hosting account, and have complete control over your site's themes, plugins, and data. Self-hosted WordPress sites can be customised in ways that closed platforms cannot match.
The trade-off is responsibility. With self-hosting, you handle WordPress updates, plugin updates, backups, and security. Managed hosting plans can take on some of this work, but the fundamental principle is that your site lives on infrastructure you control.
Self-hosting is the right choice when you need full control over your software, want to avoid being tied to a specific platform, or need to keep your data on servers in a particular location. Businesses with specific compliance requirements often self-host for exactly these reasons.
Getting started with self-hosting is simpler than it sounds. Most hosting providers include one-click WordPress installation, so you can have a self-hosted WordPress site running in under an hour. You do not need to understand servers in depth to host a simple website.
Common questions
What does self-hosted mean?
Self-hosted means running software on a server that you rent and control, rather than using a managed service where someone else controls the infrastructure. You have more flexibility but more responsibility.
Is self-hosting free?
Self-hosting requires paying for a server or hosting plan. The software (like WordPress) may be free, but the hosting itself costs money. Budget shared hosting starts around $3 per month.
Is it better to self-host or use a website builder?
Website builders like Wix or Squarespace are easier to start with and require no maintenance. Self-hosting gives you more control, lower long-term costs, and the ability to move your site. The right choice depends on your technical comfort and needs.