Guide · Netlify (free)

Put your website online for free with Netlify

Netlify hosts static websites for free and very fast – ideal if your website doesn’t need PHP features (PHP contact form, login). Buy your domain separately or directly at Netlify.

Note: this provider does not support PHP. Contact form, booking request and login area will not work here.

New to this? Read the basics first – they explain domain, hosting and the structure of your ZIP.

  1. Create an account

    Create a free account on netlify.com.

  2. Drag & drop

    Open app.netlify.com/drop and drag the unzipped “website” folder into the field. After a few seconds your site is online at an address like xyz.netlify.app.

  3. Your own domain

    In your project go to “Domain management” → “Add a domain” and follow the steps. For a domain from another provider, change the DNS records there as Netlify shows you.

  4. HTTPS

    Netlify activates SSL automatically once the domain is connected.

  5. Updates

    For changes, drag the updated folder into the upload field under “Deploys” again.

Tips

  • PHP features (contact form, booking request, login) do not run on Netlify. Choose a classic web host for those.
  • Netlify is based in the USA – mention this in your privacy policy.

Hosts occasionally rename menu items. If you can’t find something, use the search in your customer area or contact your provider’s support.