In order for any web site to be present on the web, there must be a web server and a connection to the internet.

Because of low-cost, high-benefit to external hosting, most small and medium-sized businesses choose to host their web site elsewhere than in their own facility or office. They find what's called a web hosting provider.

Should you decide to set up internal web hosting, here is a checklist of things you would need: 

• Hardware -- the server itself, firewall, and routers
• Speed -- high speed Internet access and the appropriate network cables
• Static IP address -- an address that uniquely identifies your server, assigned by your Internet service provider
• Software -- operating system, web server
• Security -- to prevent physical theft and virtual theft 
• Redundancy -- a backup system in case this one fails, or an identical set of hardware, software, cables, etc.
• Procedures -- to back up files
• Space -- a room that is air conditioned so that the systems do not overheat
• Time -- to set up and maintain the systems
• Technical knowledge -- to handle all of the above. The person who sets up and maintains systems like these are called server administrators. Networking administrators or networking support personnel also often handle this role.

If you already have these resources in place, your web professional (me, if you choose) would partner with your server administrator to make sure your web site gets up and running properly.

Otherwise, a web hosting provider has these resources already in place at much more affordable prices. Web hosting providers offer different levels of service:

• Virtual Hosting. The most popular type of web hosting, virtual hosting is like renting an apartment. Your web site  shares the same server with other web sites. Virtual hosting is set up so that you have certain software available to you, a set amount of space and a certain amount of data transfer (also called "traffic" or "activity") per month. 
• Server Leasing. In this arrangement, the hosting provider essentially rents you a server hardware "package" and a service agreement. You configure the server and install whatever software you like. You pay per month for the service and per hour for server administrative support. 
• Co-location. Co-location means storing your own server hardware and software at the hosting provider's facility and can physically access your server equipment at scheduled intervals or on an emergency basis. If you have technical expertise on staff, this can be a way to avoid paying higher hourly consultative fees although the provider generally makes this kind of support available to you just in case.