Website Basics

Before diving into the world of web creation or SEO, it's helpful to understand the core building blocks of a website. This section introduces the key terms that form the foundation of website creation and operation. Whether you're setting up your first site or just curious, these terms will help you understand the technical terms, typically used in web design, and get you started with confidence.

Website addresses and navigation

How users find and interact with websites on the internet.

• Domain Name: The unique address people type into a browser to visit a website. (www.example.com)

• URL (Uniform Resource Locator): The complete web address of a resource (e.g., https://www.example.com/about).

• DNS (Domain Name System): The system that translates domain names into IP addresses.

• Hyperlink: A clickable link that navigates users to another page or website.

Hosting and infrastructure

Understanding the back-end systems that make websites accessible.

• Hosting: The service that stores your website’s files and serves them online.

• Web Server: A computer or software that delivers website files to users.

• IP Address: A unique identifier for devices or servers on the internet.

Security and privacy

Key elements for ensuring a safe browsing experience.

• SSL Certificate: A digital certificate that secures data transfers between a user and a website (https).

• Cache: Temporary storage of website data to speed up performance.

• 404 Error: A message displayed when a webpage cannot be found.

Website content and design

Core elements for creating and displaying website content.

• CMS (Content Management System): Software for managing and editing website content without coding.

• Homepage: The main entry point of a website, often the first page users see.

• HTML (HyperText Markup Language): The code that structures content on the web.

• CSS (Cascading Style Sheets): The code that styles the visual layout of a website.