When you register a domain name with any hosting provider, you are not required to host your website with them. Domain Registration and Web Hosting are separate services, allowing you to select different providers for each.

Why You Can Host Your Domain & Website with Different Companies 

When you register a domain and choose a web hosting service, each comes with its own set of options and providers. Purchasing a domain gives you the right to use a specific website address. 

This allows you to point your domain to any web hosting provider’s servers, where your site’s files and data are stored and accessible to internet users. You can register a domain with one company and host your website with another based on customer support, pricing, and site needs. 

For example, with Domains.co.za, you retain your domain name and point it to any web hosting provider. So, you can choose Domains.co.za to host your website or select another provider. However, we recommend speaking to our Sales and Support Team first, as we may have a solution that meets your needs.

You don’t necessarily need hosting straight away when registering your domain if your website isn’t ready to go live. You can also design a great-looking page with our Website Builder add-on. 

At Domains.co.za, we offer free DNS hosting, so you can point your domain to a different hosting provider if that suits your requirements. 

Additionally, we recommend exploring our Email Only Hosting plans to maintain a professional image from the outset. This way, your email communications can include your custom domain name instead of a generic one. 

Additional Information 

Register a Domain vs. Web Hosting Services 

Here are some key differences between domain name registration and web hosting: 

Domain Name Registration 

• Secures your website with a unique web address (e.g., yourdomain.TLD). 
• Hosting providers like Domains.co.za allow users to register domain names, acting as intermediaries between you and the domain name Registrar. 
• Once registered, your domain allows visitors to access your website by typing the URL into their browser. 

Web Hosting 

• Provides the necessary server space and resources for your website’s files and data to be accessed online. 
• Includes services like disk space, bandwidth, CPU and RAM, security, and other resources needed to host a website. 
• After purchasing a web hosting plan, your website’s content and databases are uploaded to the hosting provider’s servers, e.g. via an FTP client. 
• Ensures that your website remains online and accessible to visitors 24/7. 

Why You Should Choose Domains.co.za for Domain Name Registration & Website Hosting 

Domains.co.za offers various plans that bundle domain name registration with hosting services, including features like Malware Protection, free SSL Certificates, and free domain name registration* with select Web Hosting, Email Hosting, and WordPress Hosting options. 

By hosting your domain and website with Domains.co.za, you benefit from seamless integration between your domain and hosting services, simplifying tasks like DNS configuration and domain renewal, all managed within one platform. 

Domains.co.za provides a user-friendly Control Panel, enabling you to easily manage your website, domain settings, email accounts, and other hosting features. The intuitive interface makes website management simple, even for beginners. 

For WordPress users, Domains.co.za offers optimised WordPress Hosting plans featuring automatic updates, built-in caching, and expert support to ensure security, performance, and reliability. 

With dependable customer support, Domains.co.za staff are ready to assist with any domain or hosting-related issues. Whether you have questions about domain registration, website setup, or technical troubleshooting, our support team can provide prompt assistance and guidance – or you can log a ticket.