A hosted platform runs the servers and software for you, within the limits of its own tools. A self-hosted site gives you full control of the software and code, and with it the job of keeping everything updated.
Servers, security patches for the platform and uptime are the platform's job. You pay for that convenience by working inside its tools.
When a feature is missing, the options are an app from its marketplace, an embedded third-party tool or custom code where the platform allows it.
Someone has to keep the software current. WordPress documents automatic background updates, one-click updates and manual updates, and recommends a backup before updating.
In return you can install any compatible plugin, change any line of code and move the site to another host.
| Criterion | Hosted platform | Self-hosted website |
|---|---|---|
| Who runs the servers[1][2][3][4][5] | The platform. Squarespace, Wix, Shopify and Webflow include hosting with their plans. | You choose a host that meets the software's needs; WordPress needs PHP, a MySQL or MariaDB database and HTTPS. |
| Software updates[1][4][6] | Hosting is managed for you, so there are no server updates for you to run. | Core, theme and plugin updates are run by you, your developer or your host, with a backup first. |
| Adding features[7][8][9][10] | Features come from the platform's own tools and its app or block library. | Any compatible plugin can be installed, or a feature built in code. |
| Custom code[11][12][10] | Limited to what each platform allows, such as code injection or code embeds. | Full access to themes and code. |
| Moving away later[13][14][15] | Exports vary: Squarespace exports part of a site, and Wix blog posts do not export to other platforms. | WordPress exports posts and pages as an XML file. |
Yes. Each includes hosting with its plans, so there is no separate host to choose.[1][2][3][4]
Yes. WordPress documents automatic background updates, one-click updates and manual updates, and recommends backing up before you update.[6]
Yes. Our Website Subscription covers hosting, security and maintenance as well as the design and build, so the upkeep is not left to you.
Your website, fully managed — no big upfront cost.
We design, build, host, maintain and keep improving your site for one simple monthly fee.
A one-off custom build you own outright.
A defined scope and a single fixed quote — delivered once, and yours to keep.
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