Understanding Server Host Name: A Comprehensive Guide for Devs

As a developer, understanding server host names is essential in ensuring that your website or application runs smoothly. If you’re new to this concept, don’t worry. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about server host names in relaxed, easy-to-understand language.

What is a Server Host Name?

A server host name is a unique identifier that is assigned to a particular computer or server on a network. It acts as the computer’s address on the internet, making it easy for other devices to find and connect to it. Every computer or server has a host name, which is used to establish connections between them on the internet.

Host names are made up of two parts: the actual name and the domain name. The actual name is the unique name given to the computer or server, while the domain name is the name of the network or organization that the computer or server belongs to.

How is a Server Host Name Different from an IP Address?

While a server host name is a unique identifier for a server, an IP address is a numerical address that identifies each device on a network. IP addresses are used for routing data packets between devices, while host names are used to establish connections between computers and servers.

However, host names are often easier to remember than IP addresses, which are typically a series of numbers separated by periods. This is why most websites and applications use host names instead of IP addresses to connect to servers.

Why is a Server Host Name Important?

A server host name is important because it allows devices on a network to find and connect to the server. It also helps to identify the server on the internet, making it easier for users to access it. Host names are also used in email addresses, allowing users to send and receive emails to and from a specific server.

Furthermore, host names are used in SSL certificates, which are used to secure websites and applications. SSL certificates use the host name to verify that the website or application is legitimate and secure, helping to protect users from malicious activities.

How to Find Your Server Host Name

Now that you understand what a server host name is, you may be wondering how to find your own server host name. Luckily, there are several ways to do this:

Using the Command Prompt

One way to find your server host name is by using the command prompt on your computer. To do this, follow these steps:

Step	Instruction
Step 1	Open the Command Prompt on your computer
Step 2	Type “hostname” in the command prompt
Step 3	Press Enter
Step 4	Your server host name will be displayed in the command prompt

Using Online Tools

Another way to find your server host name is by using online tools. These tools scan your IP address and domain name to give you information about your server host name. Some popular tools include WhatIsMyIPAddress and DNSStuff.

Contact Your Host Provider

If you’re still having trouble finding your server host name, you can contact your hosting provider for assistance. They should be able to provide you with the necessary information.

Common Server Host Name Terminology

As you dive further into the world of server host names, you may come across some common terminology. Here are some important terms to know:

Fully Qualified Domain Name (FQDN)

A Fully Qualified Domain Name (FQDN) is a host name that includes both the actual name and the domain name, along with the top-level domain (TLD). For example, “www.example.com” is a FQDN.

Domain Name System (DNS)

The Domain Name System (DNS) is a hierarchical naming system that is used to map host names to their corresponding IP addresses. It allows devices on a network to find and connect to servers using host names instead of IP addresses.

Top-Level Domain (TLD)

A Top-Level Domain (TLD) is the highest level of the domain name system. Examples of TLDs include .com, .org, and .net.

FAQ About Server Host Names

What happens if I change my server host name?

If you change your server host name, it can potentially break any connections or services that rely on the old host name. It’s important to make sure that all affected systems are updated with the new host name to avoid any issues.

Can I have multiple server host names?

Yes, you can have multiple server host names for the same server. This can be useful in situations where you have different services or applications running on the same server.

Can I change my server host name without affecting my website or application?

If you change your server host name, it can potentially break any connections or services that rely on the old host name. It’s important to make sure that all affected systems are updated with the new host name to avoid any issues.

What is the difference between a domain name and a server host name?

A domain name is the name of a website or application, while a server host name is the unique identifier for the server that the website or application runs on. While both are important in establishing connections to a server, they serve different purposes.

Can I use an IP address instead of a server host name?

While you can use an IP address to connect to a server, it’s generally easier to remember and use a server host name. Using an IP address also makes it more difficult to switch servers or update your domain name, as you would have to update every instance of the IP address.

Conclusion

Understanding server host names is an important part of being a successful developer. Knowing how to find your server host name, as well as common terminology and best practices, can help you ensure that your website or application runs smoothly and securely. Hopefully, this guide has provided you with all the information you need to get started.