Website builders or hosting: which one suits you?
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Want a website but not sure where to start? There are two broad paths: an all-in-one website builder, or web hosting where you install and run the site yourself. Neither is "best". It depends on what you want to build and how hands-on you want to be.
1. What each one is
- Website builder: a service where you pick a template and edit your site in the browser. The building tools, hosting and usually security updates come as one package.
- Web hosting: you rent space on a server and put your own site on it, often using a content management system you install. You choose how it looks and works, and you look after it.
2. A builder may suit you if...
- You want something simple, like a small business page, a portfolio or a club site.
- You'd rather not deal with updates, plugins or server settings.
- You want one place to call for help.
The trade-off is less control. You can usually only do what the builder allows, and your site lives on their platform.
3. Hosting may suit you if...
- You want full control over design, features and where the site lives.
- You're happy to keep software and plugins updated, or to pay someone who will.
- You might want to move the site to another host later.
The trade-off is more responsibility. If something breaks, fixing it is usually on you.
4. Questions to ask either way
- What's included? A domain name, email, security certificates, backups and support can each be included or extra.
- What happens at renewal? Introductory deals can renew on different terms. Read the renewal and cancellation terms before you sign up, not after.
- Can I take my site with me? Check whether you can export your pages, images, posts and customer data in a usable form. With some builders, moving away means rebuilding.
- Who owns the domain? Make sure the domain name is registered in your own name, so you keep it if you change provider.
- How do I cancel? It should be clear and simple.
5. Watch for subscription traps
The ACCC has warned consumers about subscription traps, such as free trials that roll into paid plans, and terms that are hard to find. Set a reminder before any trial ends, and keep a copy of what you agreed to. Your consumer guarantees still apply to services.
6. A simple way to decide
Write down what the site needs to do in the next year: a few pages, a blog, bookings or an online shop. If a builder's template covers it and you value simplicity, start there. If you need custom features or want full control, look at hosting. Either way, try before you commit long term where you can.
The short version
- Builders are simpler but give you less control.
- Hosting gives you control but more to look after.
- Check what's included, the renewal terms and how to cancel.
- Make sure you can export your site and own your domain.
- Watch for free trials that roll into paid plans.
We don't list prices here, because they change depending on where you are. Check the provider's own site for current prices and plans.
