The scopes of hosting services vary widely. The most basic is file hosting (or Web page hosting), where Web pages and other files can be uploaded via FTP or a Web interface. The files are usually delivered to the Web "as is" or with little processing. Many ISPs offer this service for free to its subscribers. People can also obtain Web page hosting from services such as GeoCities or Yahoo!. Web page hosting is typically free, advertisement sponsored, or cheap.
Web page hosting is typically sufficient only for personal home pages. A complex site calls for a more comprehensive package that provide database support and application development platforms (e.g. PHP, Java, and ASP.NET). These facilities allow the customers to write or install scripts for applications like forums and content management. For e-commerce, SSL is also required. The host may also provide a Web interface (e.g. cPanel) for managing the Web server and installing scripts as well as other services like e-mail.
Some hosts specialize in certain software or services (e.g. e-commerce). They are commonly used by larger companies to outsource network infrastructure to a hosting company.
