Clear answers about website ownership, domains, hosting, and Google Business Profile.
Ownership
Can my web designer still manage everything for me?
Yes. You can choose a fully managed service while keeping the accounts in your name. Invite the professional through each service's user or sharing feature instead of giving them the primary password. You remain in control and they can still do the technical work.
Which accounts should belong to my business?
Your business should control the domain, hosting, website administrator, backups, Google Business Profile, Search Console, Analytics, and paid licenses. Start with What Your Business Should Own Online.
Should I share my password with a designer?
Use separate, revocable access whenever the service supports it. Keep your password, two-factor authentication, and recovery codes private. If an owner-only action is required, you can sign in and complete that action yourself.
Do I own a domain forever after buying it?
No. A domain is a registration right for a paid period. It must be renewed. Your business should be the registrant and control the registrar account, recovery methods, and renewal payment.
Domains and Hosting
Do my domain and hosting need to be with the same company?
No. The domain can stay at Porkbun while the website runs on Hostinger or another host. DNS connects them. You normally do not need to transfer the domain to the hosting company.
Why does the hosting price say per month when checkout charges much more?
The displayed monthly number can be an equivalent rate for a long term paid upfront. Before paying, record the total due today, the term length, the renewal price, and the renewal date.
Should I use Hostinger Website Builder or WordPress?
Use WordPress when the ability to move the website matters. Hostinger Website Builder is easier in some cases, but it cannot export the complete design, store, forms, integrations, and settings. The right choice depends on your project, but portability should be decided before the build starts.
What backup should I receive?
For WordPress, a complete backup includes the website files and database. Keep a copy outside the hosting account. A content-only export is not the same as a complete site backup.
Google Business Profile
Is Google Business Profile free?
Yes. Google does not charge to create, verify, maintain, or reinstate a Business Profile. Be careful with unexpected callers or messages demanding payment or a verification code.
Can I use my home address for a service business?
Google may require the real operating address for verification. Hide it from the public when customers do not visit you there. Set a realistic service area instead.
Who should own my Google Business Profile?
The business should remain Primary Owner. A designer or agency normally receives Manager access through their own Google Account.