definition of websites

• More from M-W
• To save this word, you'll need to log in. Log In

Definition of website

Examples of website in a sentence.

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'website.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

1993, in the meaning defined above

Articles Related to website

OMG: The Internet and the Dictionary

Part Three: The Internet

Dictionary Entries Near website

web spinner

Cite this Entry

“Website.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/website. Accessed 24 May. 2024.

Kids Definition

Kids definition of website, more from merriam-webster on website.

Nglish: Translation of website for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of website for Arabic Speakers

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

Can you solve 4 words at once?

Word of the day.

See Definitions and Examples »

Get Word of the Day daily email!

Popular in Grammar & Usage

More commonly misspelled words, your vs. you're: how to use them correctly, every letter is silent, sometimes: a-z list of examples, more commonly mispronounced words, how to use em dashes (—), en dashes (–) , and hyphens (-), popular in wordplay, the words of the week - may 24, flower etymologies for your spring garden, birds say the darndest things, a great big list of bread words, 10 scrabble words without any vowels, games & quizzes.

WEBSITE ESSENTIALS

What is a website? Definition + examples

• Rachel Bistricer
• 13 min read

Get started by:  Creating a website →  |  Getting a domain →

Before the internet age fundamentally changed global communication, businesses relied on things like newspaper ads, flyers and word-of-mouth to reach customers. But in today's digital world, an online presence is essential, including creating a website . With 73% of small businesses  owning websites, a strong online presence is a prerequisite for brand recognition, lead generation and operating a successful venture, both on and offline. 

With drag and drop tools and AI website builders , website creation has evolved and changed the way in which people carve out their digital presence. Before diving in, it’s necessary to understand the basics—like what is a website and why do you need one? This article will cover website definitions, the characteristics of the various types of sites and why it's important to build a website.

What is a website?

A website is a place on the internet where you can easily post information about yourself, your business or topics you're passionate about. It's like having your own corner of the web to showcase your ideas and connect with others. Whether you're looking to share knowledge, sell online, communicate with others, learn something new or simply have fun—websites serve a variety of purposes. To access a website, users simply need a device with a web browser—like laptops, smartphones or tablets—along with an Internet connection.

What are websites used for?

From personal blogs to e-commerce stores, websites have become a crucial part of our routines, offering convenience and accessibility. Whether it's for entertainment, education, or business, websites are digital platforms that enable communication, information sharing, and online transactions. 

Learn more: What is an ecommerce website?

Websites can be used for personal purposes, such as blogging or sharing information about hobbies and interests. For businesses, a website serves as an online storefront where customers can view products or services, make purchases and reach out for customer support.

They are also commonly used for education purposes, with many schools and universities having their own websites to share information and resources with students. Additionally, organizations and nonprofits use websites to raise awareness about their causes and connect with potential donors.

Learn more: What is a wedding website?

How does a website work?

The first thing to understand is the internet and the web that provide a ground for websites. The internet is the technology or infrastructure connecting computers and facilitating information sharing. The web is the system that enables information sharing using the internet. It encompasses digital documents, websites, webpages, media and more. To view web content, we use web browsers like Google Chrome, Internet Explorer, Microsoft Edge, Mozilla Firefox or Safari.

When you enter a web address or domain name into your browser, your computer sends a request to the hosting server. This request passes through the Domain Name System (DNS)  to look up the server's internet protocol (IP) address . The web service uses protocols like Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP), Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure (HTTPS)  and File Transfer Protocol (FTP) to transmit information and files over the web.

Once the server receives the request, it sends back the requested webpage , along with images and other files, to your computer. The browser then displays the webpage using technologies like HyperText Markup Language (HTML)  and Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) . These technologies structure and present the information on the screen. Website loading time depends on a range of factors like server speed, internet connection quality and website size and complexity.

Difference between website, webpage and web server 

Understanding the distinctions between a website, webpage and web server is key for effective navigation in the digital landscape. Let's use a simple analogy—imagine a bustling marketplace. The website is like the marketplace itself, and each webpage is a unique stall or shop within it. Similar to a marketplace, each webpage offers different products—information, images and services —just like the goods in a shop. Now, picture the internet as the city where the marketplace is located, a vast network connecting countless marketplaces (websites). It's like exploring a city full of interconnected markets, each with its own offerings.

A webpage is a single document or page within a website. Websites can have multiple webpages, all linked together by hyperlinks, to display a cohesive website. The page you're currently on is a webpage. When you go to the home page, you're on a separate webpage, but still within the same website. 

Web server 

A web server  is a computer that stores and delivers webpages to users when they request them. It is the physical location where all the files and data for a website are stored. When someone types in your website's URL, the server gets the necessary files and displays them to create the webpage.

A website is a collection of webpages that are accessed with a single domain name or URL. It includes all the individual pages, multimedia details and files stored on a web server. Websites are built using languages like HTML, CSS and JavaScript  to make visually appealing layouts and functionality. 

Don't confuse websites and web servers. If someone says, "My website is not responding," it means the web server isn't responding, making the website unavailable. Remember, a web server can host multiple websites, but the term "web server" doesn’t refer to a specific website. In the previous example, if someone says, "My web server is not responding," it means multiple websites on that web server are unavailable.

Website definitions

A website is a collection of webpages hosted on a web server. In order to create a website , you need several components. Here’s what you need to get started:

Domain name

To reach your site, individuals type in a unique web address that typically reflects your business or brand name and ends with a domain extension like .com, .org, or .net. Registering your website name with a domain registration company, also known as a domain registrar, is necessary to secure this distinctive internet address.

Tip:   When you make a website with Wix, you can opt for  domain privacy  for no extra fee, when you register your domain. 

Domain extension

Also known as top-level domains (TLD), d omain extensions  can quickly identify specific elements of a website like its main purpose, owner or geographic location. You can check out  ICANN’s complete list of domain extensions here , or check out these guides:

. directory

Webpages, also known as individual documents within a website, present information to users. Each webpage should serve a specific purpose and contribute to the overall user experience by providing valuable material, images and interactive elements. Some websites may be concise and focused, with only a few pages, while others offer an array of information and services to cater to diverse user needs.

This is the service that stores your website's files and makes them accessible to users on the internet. By choosing the appropriate plan for hosting a website , you can optimize performance, enhance security and provide an exceptional usability to your visitors. 

URL address

The address of a website is also known as the Universal Resource Locator (URL) . When a user wants to open a website then they need to put the URL of the website into a web browser and the requested website is delivered by the web server. The URL of the Wix Blog for example, https://www.wix.com/blog is composed of three parts: 

Protocol identifier: Defines the protocol used to access the webpage (usually HTTP or HTTPS)

Server name: Refers to the domain name and extension where the web server is located ( wix.com )

File name: Indicates the specific page or resource on that web server (blog)

The homepage  is a very common and important part of the website. It serves as the initial point of contact for viewers, setting the tone and guiding them to explore the rest of the website. Thinking through and making a homepage  not only showcases the brand's identity but also directs users to other relevant pages.

Navigation structure

Website navigation  is the order of pages and the collection of links that connect them. When done correctly, it creates a smooth and intuitive browsing. Typically, this structure is supported by one or more menus, strategically placed to make it easy for users to find what they need and move around the sections of the website. 

A website template is a pre-made design that includes the layout, color scheme, font choice and all visual elements. It's like a ready-to-use blueprint for your brand's online presence. With Wix, you'll find a wide range of templates, from striking photography website  templates to stylish blog templates . These templates can be customized to fit your brand and content needs. 

Multimedia elements

These include a wide range of multimedia details such as images, videos, audio files and interactive website features  like animations and adaptive content. When used correctly, these elements can make a website engaging, informative and visually appealing.

Content is the information you put on your website to inform, guide, or influence visitors. This information can be presented with text, images, videos or audio recordings. Similar to website design , the primary responsibility of content is to keep people engaged, resulting in longer stays and repeat visits to your site. Additionally, well-optimized articles can improve your position on search engine result pages (SERPs), playing a crucial role in on-page search engine optimization (SEO).

“ There are over 2 billion websites out there and we all visit many of them daily. With visual and textual content you have the opportunity to make a statement and have your site stand out. This is the place to add your brand personality. If you are more traditional, no need to go wild. Often, unique copy or a cool visual is all you need for your site to be memorable. ”

Adi Huri, Product Manager at Wow for   Wix

Static vs dynamic websites

When it comes to creating your website, you'll face an important decision: choosing between a static vs dynamic website . This choice will affect how your webpages are stored and delivered to users in their browsers. Let's take a closer look at these website structures.

Static websites

A static website is a collection of pre-written webpages that are displayed as published. These sites aren't interactive, meaning the material on each page remains the same until manually updated. The information and appearance of static websites remain consistent for all viewers, regardless of their browsers, locations or devices. Often, businesses opt for static websites to establish a simple online presence, as they are cost-effective without requiring server-side processing in multiple languages.

While static webpages can't take input from users, they can still contain animations and clickable elements like hyperlinks or navigation buttons. This makes them a popular choice for portfolio and catalog sites.

V-labs  is an example of a static website. It displays text, images and navigation links that direct visitors to other pages.

Dynamic websites

Dynamic websites are more flexible and user-friendly. They can change information and appearance based on several factors, including the time of the day, visitor’s location, language preferences, past interactions with the site or device type. With these sites, the web server processes data in real-time to generate customized pages for each visitor. Dynamic websites can interact with users through forms, surveys, quizzes and other interactive factors that require server-side processing.

This makes dynamic websites most suited for eCommerce business, social media, ticket booking and forums. These sites also allow individuals to set up accounts, login and access personalized information or services.

Amazon.com is a popular example of a dynamic site. Its front page shows product recommendations to visitors based on their locations, purchases and search history.

Types of websites

Websites can also be broken down into categories based on their objectives, features or target audiences. Whether you’re starting a business  or simply want to start a blog , understanding the difference between these types of websites  will help you get started.

These sites are used to publish articles or posts in a chronological order, covering a wide range of topics from personal stories to news, as well as thoughtful essays, tutorials or practical advice lists. Keeping blog content up to date—as well as the feedback from users—must be constant. Many businesses start a blog to share news and information with their customers, using it as an SEO tool, attracting more organic visitors. Nowadays, professional blogging has emerged as a popular way to earn money online.

As an interior stylist and digital content creator, Brit Arnesen uses her blog, britdotdesign , as a platform to provide design inspiration and expertise to her readers.

An eCommerce website  is an online store  that helps you sell products, services and digital goods online by enabling you to accept payments , process orders, manage logistics and shipping and offer customer help. These websites are made up of several webpages where businesses show their products and users can place orders online, complete the transaction and apply various payment methods.

Adama Studio  creates modern, practical ceramic items for everyday use. Their website has an online store where customers can easily purchase and have products shipped.

An online portfolio  showcases a person's or business' work, skills and experience. It's used to attract prospective clients, employers or partners by sharing your previous projects. A portfolio website  can house images, videos, descriptions of the services provided as well as client testimonials.

Sharon Radisch  is a multi-talented creative who works as a photographer, art director and artist. Her online portfolio highlights the various projects she has undertaken in each of these roles.

Websites for professional services

Professional websites aim to encourage users to purchase products or services, but without strictly serving as an eCommerce site. The main individuals who create a professional website  are users from various fields, including suppliers and service companies. Their sales process works best through a quote or an in-person appointment.

Mango Marketing ’s website outlines their studio service packages for businesses looking to expand their business and enhance their online visibility.

Landing page or single page sites

One-page websites' popularity has grown because they are simple and easy to navigate. These websites concentrate all information on a single landing page , making them effective and cost-efficient for launching special products or services. Typically used by small businesses, they act as a digital business card, displaying contact information and advertising services.

Animal Music Studios  utilizes engaging videos and a navigation menu at the top to guide users to the different sections of the one-page site.

News websites present news articles, current events and other relevant information. They often include details like videos and images to support their stories. News sites update regularly and can be categorized into different sections such as world news, politics, sports or entertainment. As more individuals consume news online, newspapers have adapted by transitioning to digital. Many magazines and newspapers now offer subscription-based news sites as they no longer rely on print editions. 

New Wave Magazine  is a digital publication that also offers print editions. Readers can access articles on their website and purchase print copies through their online store.

Portal websites are primarily used within educational institutions like schools and institutes, as well as businesses. They make things easier by providing various functions, including a secure login process for students to view their information like grades and schedules. Employees also benefit from these websites, as they offer a convenient way to access emails, alerts and other relevant information needed for day-to-day tasks and responsibilities.

Jule Dancewear , is a small business that sells dance apparel. They have a website where customers can create an account to save their profile information, view order history, save blog posts they are interested in and create wish lists of products they may want to purchase in the future.

Forum websites bring people with similar interests together to connect and engage with each other. You can use timelines, chats or specialized forums to interact. Social networking sites like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat and Reddit are great examples of forums where you can connect with others who share your interests.

Brown Skin Brunchin  is a community for professional minority women. The website features a forum where members can connect by posting introductions, having discussions and sharing stories, ideas and photos.

Why you need a website

Whether you are a small start-up or an existing company, establishing an online presence can greatly benefit your business in many ways.

Increase competitiveness

A website can enhance your brand identity and make you stand out among competitors.  With many businesses relying on online sales, having an engaging and well planned website can give you a competitive advantage. A business website  allows you to showcase your products or services in an attractive and informative manner, encouraging potential customers to choose your business over others.

Reach a wider audience

Reaching a larger audience beyond your local community is made possible by creating a website. With the internet, your business can be accessible to anyone, anywhere, at any time. This increases your customer base and opens up opportunities for growth and expansion.

Cost-effective marketing

79% of online buyers  shop at least once per month. If you want to attract more people, one of the best ways is by making yourself visible on Google. You can employ search engine optimization (SEO) methods to help your website rank organically.

Sell products and services online

With an eCommerce website, you can sell your products and services online, reaching a wider customer base. This allows for 24/7 sales potential and removes geographical limitations. Online shopping is also becoming increasingly popular, making it essential for businesses to build an eCommerce site .

How to create a website

Now that you've learned about how websites work and the different types of websites, you might be considering one for your business. Let's explore what you'll need to start your own website. With this knowledge, you'll be empowered to build a website that suits your business needs.

Ready to set up your website? Watch the 10 most essential Wix tutorials  to get started.

Outline your website idea

The first step is to have a clear idea of what you want your website to achieve. This will help you determine the type of website that best suits your needs and goals. Consider what products or services you offer, who your target audience is and how you would like to present your brand online. Learn how to plan a website  to help you in the following steps.

Choose a domain name and web hosting

Your domain name acts as the digital address of your site so users can easily find you online. When selecting a domain name, it's important to pick one that reflects your brand and is memorable. Avoid using hyphens and numbers and aim for a short domain name. If you're struggling to come up with ideas, try using our domain name generator  to find a suitable name. 

Tip:  Use Wix’s domain name search  to check if your desired domain name is available.

Pick a website building platform

Fortunately, creating a website has become very accessible even for people without a technical background. In fact, you can turn your website idea into a fully functional site using a drag and drop website builder and all of the functionalities that come with it. 

Select a web hosting provider

Once you've chosen a platform to build your website, you'll need a web host. Web hosting is the service that stores your website files and makes them available to your customers when they visit your site. Your host handles all the HTTP requests and delivers the necessary files to fulfill those requests whenever someone accesses your website. Web hosts also support you with backups, uptime and security maintenance. When selecting a hosting website , consider cost, features, security and support. Wix's free web hosting  allows you to easily scale your hosting as your online business grows.

Design your website

Creating a successful website involves more than just visual appeal. It's about establishing a cohesive brand identity, ensuring a user-friendly experience and utilizing effective web design  elements. Consider factors such as your logo, color schemes and typography to reflect your brand's personality. When designing a website of your own, you can use website templates  that aligns with your brand and guides and prioritizes user interface (UI)  to provide seamless browsing. Check out these examples of web design inspiration .

Add page content and optimize for SEO

Your content is the heart of your website. Use engaging and informative material to attract and retain visitors. Your website should be easy to navigate, with a clear call-to-action on each page to encourage users to take specific actions, such as completing a purchase or signing up for a newsletter.

When creating your website, keep search engine optimization (SEO) in mind. This involves optimizing your website to improve its ranking on search engines like Google. This will help increase your visibility and drive more traffic to your site. Some tips for optimizing your website include using relevant keywords, creating high-quality information and ensuring fast page loading speeds.

Launch and maintain your website

Once you've completed all the necessary steps, use a website checklist  when launching a new website . However, building a successful online presence does not end here. Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your site up-to-date. This means updating pages, monitoring for any technical issues and keeping up with SEO techniques to maintain or improve your search engine ranking. Additionally, regularly checking in with your audience and collecting feedback can help you continually improve and enhance your website's performance.

What is a website FAQ

What is the most common website type.

The most common website type is a business or eCommerce website, followed by personal websites  and blogs. However, this can vary depending on the purpose and industry of the website.  With so many website types available, there is certainly one that will suit your needs and goals.

What is the role of the DNS in a website?

What are website cookies, why do some websites look different on my phone, how much does it cost to build a website, what is a website title, how does a website cms function, related posts.

How to make a personal website: a step-by-step guide

Best website builders for small businesses in 2024

What is an eCommerce website and why do you need one

Was this article helpful?

• Daily Crossword
• Word Puzzle
• Word Finder
• Word of the Day
• Synonym of the Day
• Word of the Year
• Language stories
• All featured
• Gender and sexuality
• All pop culture
• Writing hub
• Grammar essentials
• Commonly confused
• All writing tips
• Pop culture
• Writing tips

Advertisement

[ web -sahyt ]

• a connected group of pages on the World Wide Web regarded as a single entity, usually maintained by one person or organization and devoted to a single topic or several closely related topics.

/ ˈwɛbˌsaɪt /

• a group of connected pages on the World Wide Web containing information on a particular subject

/ wĕb ′ sīt′ /

• A set of interconnected webpages, usually including a homepage, generally located on the same server, and prepared and maintained as a collection of information by a person, group, or organization.

Discover More

Word history and origins.

Origin of website 1

Compare Meanings

How does website compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• web page vs. website

Example Sentences

They have delivered more than 10 million pounds of food to those in need countywide, according to the rescue group’s website.

Plus, SEOs have been complaining for a while that SERP features like rich snippets encourage searchers to stay on Google instead of clicking through to websites.

The company went from a little-known website to a platform dubbed “the nearest thing China has to YouTube.”

Agendas have only been posted in English so far on the commission’s website.

This will help you attract local traffic and make your website more search-friendly.

Have you looked around the American Dental Association website for an explanation of how fluoridation actually works?

The website, which as of now consists of just a homepage stating general principles, is indivisible.us.

She has had clients from all over the world, including Ireland and India, who are drawn to her via word of mouth and her website.

Nervous fans can keep a vigilant eye on it via a webcam hosted on the town website that offers 24-hour goat viewing.

As reparation, the court ordered $563 to be paid out to Yang and required the clinic to post an apology on its website.

These links function correctly whether the books are read online, or installed on a local drive or a website.

A suitable font was developed by Paul Morrow and can be downloaded from his website.

Related Words

A website is a collection of webpages grouped together using the same domain name and operated by the same person or organization. You can access a website using a web browser by entering its URL directly or by clicking a link to it from another website.

For example, techterms.com is a website, while techterms.com/definition/website is a single webpage on that website.

A web server (or several web servers working together) hosts a website by storing its webpages and other resources and making it accessible to anyone through the World Wide Web . Websites are organized around a single home page , which is accessible by entering the website's root URL. From the home page, you can navigate around a website by using its navigation links or search fields.

Websites are often built around a single topic or with a single purpose, like giving information about a topic or business, operating an online storefront, or providing a social networking service. Websites can provide either static or dynamic content; static pages are written and stored on a web server as HTML , while dynamic pages are generated on-demand using content in a database . Some websites serve a combination of static and dynamic content based on the particular webpage that a user is visiting.

Test Your Knowledge

Which term is synonymous with "Internet?"

Tech Factor

Related terms.

• Domain Name
• Static Website
• Dynamic Website

The Tech Terms Computer Dictionary

The definition of Website on this page is an original definition written by the TechTerms.com team . If you would like to reference this page or cite this definition, please use the green citation links above.

The goal of TechTerms.com is to explain computer terminology in a way that is easy to understand. We strive for simplicity and accuracy with every definition we publish. If you have feedback about this definition or would like to suggest a new technical term, please contact us .

Sign up for the free TechTerms Newsletter

You can unsubscribe or change your frequency setting at any time using the links available in each email. Questions? Please contact us .

We just sent you an email to confirm your email address. Once you confirm your address, you will begin to receive the newsletter.

If you have any questions, please contact us .

What is a Website? Everything You Need to Know

By Tibor Moes / Updated: June 2023

What is a Website?

Did you know that there are approximately 1.9 billion websites on the internet today? From e-commerce to social media, informational to entertainment, websites have truly revolutionized the way we interact, learn, and consume information.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the essence of websites, their evolution, diverse types, and the impact they have on society. So let’s dive in and unravel the fascinating world of websites!

• A website is a collection of interconnected web pages that can be accessed from a web browser.
• Websites have revolutionized how we access info, learn, communicate & consume content in the digital economy.
• Ten of the most visited websites are Google, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Baidu, Wikipedia, Yandex, Yahoo, and Amazon.

Don’t become a victim of cybercrime. Protect your devices with the best antivirus software and your privacy with the best VPN service .

The Essence of a Website

A website is essentially a collection of interconnected web pages and related content, all identified by a shared domain name and published on at least one web server. Websites are the building blocks of the World Wide Web, allowing us to access a treasure trove of information, entertainment, and services at our fingertips. They are versatile and come in various forms, from simple static websites that provide basic information to complex dynamic sites that allow users to interact and engage with the content.

The core technologies that underpin websites are the internet and the web, which provide the foundation for accessing and sharing content across the globe. Websites can be created for various purposes, such as a news site for information, an e-commerce platform for online shopping, or a personal blog to share your thoughts and experiences. With roughly 1.9 billion websites in existence, the impact of websites on our lives is evident in the way we learn, communicate, and conduct business.

Definition and Purpose

A website is a hub of interconnected web pages, all sharing the same domain name and accessible via the internet. It can serve various purposes, such as providing information or services from a business, organization, or individual. The content on websites can be presented in various formats, including text, images, videos, audio, and animation, making it a versatile platform for sharing information on a specific topic or purpose.

The home page of a website is the first web page users see when they enter the web address into their browser. It typically provides an overview of the website’s content and services, guiding visitors to explore the various web pages and interact with the content as they desire.

Some websites focus on a single page, known as one-page or single-page websites, while others, like a personal site, have different web pages that delve deeper into specific topics or categories.

Web Address and Domain Names

Every website has a unique web address, also known as a URL (Uniform Resource Locator). This address helps browsers access websites on the internet and fetch the requested content.

Alongside the web address, websites also have a domain name, which is a unique identifier registered with a domain registrar. To obtain a domain name, you need to search for an available domain with a domain registrar, finalize your choice, and then purchase the domain name.

The domain name is an essential component of a website, as it provides a unique identity for your online presence and ensures potential visitors can easily find your website on the internet.

Web Servers and Hosting

Websites are stored and delivered to users through web servers, which are computer systems that take requests from clients (browsers) and deliver web content to them. Web servers use HTTP or other network protocols to facilitate this communication.

Web hosting is the place where all the website files and content are stored, making it accessible to users on the internet. Web hosts and servers provide hosting services, which are essentially remote computers with ample memory and powerful processors. This infrastructure ensures that your website remains accessible to users worldwide, allowing you to reach a broader audience and effectively share your content or services with the online community.

Evolution of Websites

Websites have come a long way since the early days of the World Wide Web, evolving from simple text and image-based pages to complex, interactive platforms that cater to various user needs and preferences. This evolution has been driven by technological advancements, changing user behaviors, and the growing importance of websites as a means to access information and services.

From the birth of the World Wide Web to the rise of dynamic websites and modern website technologies, the evolution of websites has transformed the way we interact with the internet and consume content. Let’s take a closer look at this fascinating journey through the history of websites.

Early Beginnings and the World Wide Web

The World Wide Web was created by Tim Berners-Lee in 1989, marking the beginning of a new era in information sharing and communication. The first website, constructed at CERN by Tim Berners-Lee, went live on August 6, 1991, paving the way for the development of countless other websites that would soon populate the internet.

In the early days, websites consisted primarily of text and images, with the primary focus being on information dissemination rather than interactivity. As the internet grew, so did the number of websites, leading to the development of more advanced technologies and the proliferation of various types of websites catering to different user needs.

Static Websites vs. Dynamic Websites

Two main types of websites emerged during the evolution of the web: static and dynamic. Static websites are designed using HTML and don’t update automatically, presenting fixed information to users without any interactive elements.

On the other hand, dynamic websites can update web pages depending on user behaviors and preferences, often leveraging databases to provide personalized experiences and engaging content.

The distinction between static and dynamic websites is crucial, as it determines the level of interactivity and user engagement offered by a website. While static websites serve a purpose for providing basic information, dynamic websites have grown in popularity due to their ability to adapt to user needs and offer more engaging content.

Modern Website Technologies

Today’s websites are built using a diverse range of modern technologies, such as HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript, ReactJS, AngularJS, VueJS, Progressive Web Applications, Web 3, Advanced AI, and low-code/no-code platforms. These technologies have enabled the creation of more advanced, interactive, and visually appealing websites that cater to the ever-evolving needs of internet users.

As the internet continues to grow and evolve, so too will the technologies used to build websites. This constant innovation ensures that websites remain relevant and effective in meeting the diverse needs of users worldwide, shaping the way we interact with the internet and consume content.

Diverse Types of Websites

Websites come in all shapes and sizes, catering to various purposes and user needs. From informational and content websites that provide knowledge on specific topics, to e-commerce platforms facilitating online shopping, and social media websites connecting people worldwide, the diversity of publicly accessible websites is vast and ever-expanding.

As the internet continues to grow, so too does the range of websites available to users. Understanding the different types of websites and their purposes can help you navigate the online landscape effectively and make the most of the wealth of information and services at your fingertips.

Informational and Content Websites

Informational websites are designed to provide information on a particular topic or subject, often focusing on communicating the details about a business or organization to their online audience. Content websites, on the other hand, display unique content related to a specific category, such as news, education, or entertainment. These websites serve as valuable resources for users seeking knowledge or insights on a particular subject.

Examples of informational and content websites include news websites, educational websites, personal websites, webcomics, archives, and help and Q&A websites. These websites provide a wealth of information to users, enabling them to learn, explore, and stay informed on a wide range of topics.

E-commerce and Business Websites

E-commerce and business websites are designed to facilitate online transactions, allowing users to purchase goods or services directly through the website. A well-designed business website often features online shops, payment gateways, and customer review sections, providing a seamless shopping experience for users.

Examples of e-commerce and business websites include online marketplaces, auction websites, and affiliate websites, among others. From small businesses to global corporations, e-commerce websites play a crucial role in the digital economy, enabling businesses to reach customers worldwide and drive growth through online sales.

Social Media and Online Communities

Social media websites and online communities are platforms that facilitate communication, content sharing, and collaboration among users. These websites often feature user profiles, messaging systems, and various tools for sharing and engaging with content, such as likes, comments, and shares.

Popular social media websites include Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube, each catering to different user preferences and content formats. Social media websites have become an integral part of modern life, enabling users to stay connected with friends and family, discover new content, and share their experiences with the world.

Building and Managing a Website

Creating and managing a website may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and resources, it can be a rewarding and enjoyable process. From choosing the right website creation option to registering a domain name and selecting a hosting provider, there are several steps to building a successful website.

Once your website is up and running, it’s essential to maintain and secure it, ensuring that it remains accessible, up-to-date, and protected from potential threats. In this section, we’ll explore the various aspects of building and managing a website, helping you navigate the process with confidence.

Website Creation Options

There are several options available when it comes to creating a website, each catering to different levels of technical expertise, budget, and requirements. Website builders, such as Wix, Weebly, and Squarespace, are user-friendly platforms that allow you to create a website without any coding knowledge, using pre-designed templates and drag-and-drop features.

For those who prefer more control and customization, content management systems (CMS) like WordPress, Drupal, and Joomla offer a more flexible solution, allowing you to create, manage, and publish content with ease.

Lastly, custom development is an option for those with technical experience and a larger budget, enabling you to create a website from scratch using coding languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.

Domain Registration and Hosting

Registering a domain name is a crucial step in creating a website, as it provides a unique identity for your online presence. To obtain a domain name, you’ll need to find a domain name registrar, search for an available domain, and then purchase the domain name.

In addition to registering a domain name, you’ll also need to select a hosting provider, which is responsible for storing your website files and making them accessible to users on the internet. Hosting providers offer various plans and features to cater to different website needs, such as storage capacity, bandwidth, and security measures.

Website Maintenance and Security

Maintaining and securing your website is essential for ensuring a smooth user experience and protecting your online presence from potential threats. Regular website maintenance tasks include checking web traffic, updating content, fixing broken links, and ensuring compatibility with different browsers and devices.

To secure your website, it’s important to use strong passwords, install security patches, and utilize secure protocols. By regularly maintaining and securing your website, you can ensure that it remains accessible, up-to-date, and protected from malicious attacks and unauthorized access.

The Impact of Websites on Society

Websites have had a profound impact on society, revolutionizing how we access information, learn, communicate, and consume content. From shaping the digital economy to facilitating online learning and knowledge sharing, websites have transformed our lives in countless ways.

In this section, we’ll explore the various ways in which websites have influenced society, including their role in the digital economy, online learning and knowledge sharing, and entertainment and media consumption.

The Digital Economy

The digital economy encompasses all economic activities that are generated through online connections between people, businesses, devices, data, and processes. Websites have played a pivotal role in the growth of the digital economy, enabling businesses to reach customers worldwide, streamline operations, and drive innovation.

E-commerce websites, in particular, have transformed the way we shop and conduct business, providing consumers with greater choice, convenience, and access to products and services. The digital economy continues to evolve, with websites at the forefront of this transformation, shaping how we interact with the world around us.

Online Learning and Knowledge Sharing

Websites have revolutionized the way we learn and share knowledge, breaking down barriers to education and fostering a global community of learners. Online learning platforms, such as Coursera, Udemy, and Khan Academy, provide users with access to a wealth of educational resources, from lectures and tutorials to interactive quizzes and forums.

Knowledge sharing websites, such as Wikipedia, Quora, and Stack Overflow, enable users to collaborate and build on existing knowledge, furthering our understanding of various subjects and fostering a culture of learning and discovery.

Through online learning and knowledge sharing, websites have democratized education, making it accessible to individuals worldwide, regardless of their location or background.

Entertainment and Media Consumption

Websites have transformed the way we consume entertainment and media, providing users with unprecedented access to content from around the world. Streaming platforms, such as Netflix, Hulu, and Spotify, have revolutionized the way we watch movies and listen to music, while social media websites enable users to create, share, and discover new content with ease.

Online gaming websites, news portals, and media sharing platforms all contribute to the diverse landscape of entertainment and media consumption, ensuring that users have a wealth of options at their fingertips.

As technology continues to advance, websites will play an increasingly important role in shaping our entertainment experiences and the way we consume media.

From the early beginnings of the World Wide Web to the diverse and dynamic websites that populate the internet today, websites have truly revolutionized the way we interact, learn, and consume information. As we’ve explored in this blog post, websites are an integral part of our lives, shaping the digital economy, facilitating online learning and knowledge sharing, and transforming entertainment and media consumption. As technology continues to evolve, so too will the role of websites in our society, ensuring that we remain connected, informed, and engaged with the world around us.

How to stay safe online:

• Practice Strong Password Hygiene : Use a unique and complex password for each account. A password manager can help generate and store them. In addition, enable two-factor authentication (2FA) whenever available.
• Invest in Your Safety : Buying the best antivirus for Windows 11 is key for your online security. A high-quality antivirus like Norton , McAfee , or Bitdefender will safeguard your PC from various online threats, including malware, ransomware, and spyware.
• Be Wary of Phishing Attempts : Be cautious when receiving suspicious communications that ask for personal information. Legitimate businesses will never ask for sensitive details via email or text. Before clicking on any links, ensure the sender's authenticity.
• Stay Informed. We cover a wide range of cybersecurity topics on our blog. And there are several credible sources offering threat reports and recommendations, such as NIST , CISA , FBI , ENISA , Symantec , Verizon , Cisco , Crowdstrike , and many more.

Happy surfing!

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are the most frequently asked questions.

What is a website in simple words?

In simple words, a website is a collection of interconnected webpages that provide useful information to users online. It can be created and maintained by an individual, group, business, or organization and is usually designed to serve a particular purpose such as news, education, entertainment, e-commerce, or social networking.

What is the main purpose of a website?

The main purpose of a website is to help your business reach its goals by engaging with your target audience, building trust, and providing useful information. With an effective website, you can grow your business and connect with more potential customers.

What is the difference between a static and dynamic website?

The main difference between a static and dynamic website is the interactivity and content generation. Static websites display fixed, unchanging content, while dynamic websites can update web pages on the fly in response to user input and draw information from a database.

Author: Tibor Moes

Founder & Chief Editor at SoftwareLab

Tibor has tested 39 antivirus programs and 30 VPN services , and holds a Cybersecurity Graduate Certificate from Stanford University.

He uses Norton to protect his devices, CyberGhost for his privacy, and Dashlane for his passwords.

You can find him on LinkedIn or contact him here .

Antivirus Comparisons

Best Antivirus for Windows 11 Best Antivirus for Mac Best Antivirus for Android Best Antivirus for iOS

Antivirus Reviews

Norton 360 Deluxe Bitdefender Total Security TotalAV Antivirus McAfee Total Protection

• React Native
• CSS Frameworks
• JS Frameworks
• Web Development
• Cyber Security Tutorial

Introduction

• OSI Security Architecture
• Active and Passive attacks in Information Security
• Types of Security Mechanism
• A Model for Network Security

Cyber Technology

• Basics of Wi-Fi
• The Internet and the Web

What is a Website ?

• Cryptography and Network Security Principles
• Public Key Infrastructure
• What is Electronic Signature?
• Identity and Access Management
• What Is Cloud Computing ?

Cyber Ethics

• Intellectual Property Rights
• Fundamental Rights (Articles 12-35): A Comprehensive Guide
• Introduction to Ethical Hacking
• What is a Scam?

Cyber Crimes

• Psychological Profiling in Cybersecurity
• Social Engineering - The Art of Virtual Exploitation
• Cyber Stalking
• How to Defend Against Botnets ?
• Emerging Attack Vectors in Cyber Security
• Malware and its types
• What is Phishing?
• Cyber Crime - Identity Theft
• What is Cyber Terrorism?
• What is Proxy Server?

Cyber Crime Techniques

• Worms, Viruses and beyond !!
• Trojan Horse in Information Security

Keyloggers and Spyware

• Types of SQL Injection (SQLi)
• Buffer Overflow Attack with Example
• Reverse Engineering - Software Engineering
• Difference Between Vulnerability and Exploit
• Basic Network Attacks in Computer Network
• Kali Linux - Hacking Wi-Fi
• Web Server and its Types of Attacks
• Types of VoIP Hacking and Countermeasures
• How to Spoof SMS Message in Linux ?
• Difference between Backup and Recovery
• Manual Code Review : Security Assessment
• Penetration Testing - Software Engineering

Prevention and Protection

• What is Vulnerability Assessment?
• Secure coding - What is it all about?
• Chain of Custody - Digital Forensics
• Digital Forensics in Information Security
• Introduction of Computer Forensics
• What is Network Forensics?

Cyber Forensics

• Cybercrime Causes And Measures To Prevent It
• Digital Evidence Collection in Cybersecurity
• Digital Evidence Preservation - Digital Forensics
• Computer Forensic Report Format
• How to Stop Phishing?

Cyber Crime Investigation

• Intellectual Property in Cyberspace
• Cyber Security Policy
• History of Cyber Security
• What is Internet? Definition, Uses, Working, Advantages and Disadvantages
• Cyber Security Metrics
• What is Cybersecurity Framework?
• Cyber Security, Types and Importance

Cyber security Evolution

• Substitution Cipher
• Difference between Substitution Cipher Technique and Transposition Cipher Technique
• Difference between Block Cipher and Transposition Cipher

Cyber security Objectives

• Data encryption standard (DES) | Set 1
• Strength of Data encryption standard (DES)
• Differential and Linear Cryptanalysis

Classical Encryption Techniques

• Difference between AES and DES ciphers
• Advanced Encryption Standard (AES)

Block Ciphers and the Data Encryption Standard

• Implementation of RC4 algorithm
• Introduction to Chinese Remainder Theorem
• Discrete logarithm (Find an integer k such that a^k is congruent modulo b)
• Public Key Encryption

Advanced Encryption Standard

• Key Management in Cryptography
• Implementation of Diffie-Hellman Algorithm

Moreon Symmetric Ciphers

• Message Authentication Requirements
• How message authentication code works?
• Hash Functions in System Security

Introduction to Number Theory

• Whirlpool Hash Function in Python
• HMAC Algorithm in Computer Network

Public-Key Cryptography and RSA

• Types of Authentication Protocols
• Digital Signature Standard (DSS)

Key Management:OtherPublic-Key Cryptosystems

• X.509 Authentication Service
• PGP - Authentication and Confidentiality

Message Authentication and Hash Functions

• IP security (IPSec)
• IPSec Architecture
• Internet Protocol Authentication Header

Hashand MAC Algorithms

• Web Security Considerations
• Secure Socket Layer (SSL)
• Transport Layer Security (TLS)

Digital Signatures and Authentication Protocols

• Intruders in Network Security
• Password Management in Cyber Security

Authentication Applications

Electronic mail security, ip security, web security, malicious software.

A website is a collection of many web pages, and web pages are digital files that are written using HTML(HyperText Markup Language). To make your website available to every person in the world, it must be stored or hosted on a computer connected to the Internet round a clock. Such computers are known as a Web Server .

The website’s web pages are linked with hyperlinks and hypertext and share a common interface and design. The website might also contain some additional documents and files such as images, videos, or other digital assets.

With the Internet invading every sphere, we see websites for all kinds of causes and purposes. So, we can also say that a website can also be thought of as a digital environment capable of delivering information and solutions and promoting interaction between people, places, and things to support the goals of the organization it was created for.

Components of a Website: We know that a website is a collection of a webpages hosted on a web-server. These are the components for making a website.

• Webhost: Hosting is the location where the website is physically located. Group of webpages (linked webpages) licensed to be called a website only when the webpage is hosted on the webserver. The webserver is a set of files transmitted to user computers when they specify the website’s address..
• Address: Address of a website also known as the URL of a website. When a user wants to open a website then they need to put the address or URL of the website into the web browser, and the asked website is delivered by the webserver.
• Homepage : Home page is a very common and important part of a webpage. It is the first webpage that appears when a visitor visits the website. The home page of a website is very important as it sets the look and feel of the website and directs viewers to the rest of the pages on the website.
• Design : It is the final and overall look and feel of the website that has a result of proper use and integration elements like navigation menus, graphics, layout, navigation menus etc.
• Content : Every web pages contained on the website together make up the content of the website. Good content on the webpages makes the website more effective and attractive.
• The Navigation Structure: The navigation structure of a website is the order of the pages, the collection of what links to what. Usually, it is held together by at least one navigation menu.

How to access Websites? When we type a certain URL in a browser search bar, the browser requests the page from the Web server and the Web server returns the required web page and its content to the browser. Now, it differs from how the server returns the information required in the case of static and dynamic websites.

Types of Website:

• Static Website
• Dynamic Website

Static Website: In Static Websites, Web pages are returned by the server which are prebuilt source code files built using simple languages such as HTML, CSS, or JavaScript. There is no processing of content on the server (according to the user) in Static Websites. Web pages are returned by the server with no change therefore, static Websites are fast. There is no interaction with databases. Also, they are less costly as the host does not need to support server-side processing with different languages.

Dynamic Website: In Dynamic Websites, Web pages are returned by the server which is processed during runtime means they are not prebuilt web pages, but they are built during runtime according to the user’s demand with the help of server-side scripting languages such as PHP, Node.js, ASP.NET and many more supported by the server. So, they are slower than static websites but updates and interaction with databases are possible. Dynamic Websites are used over Static Websites as updates can be done very easily as compared to static websites (Where altering in every page is required) but in Dynamic Websites, it is possible to do a common change once, and it will reflect in all the web pages.

There are different types of websites on the whole internet, we had chosen some most common categories to give you a brief idea –

• Blogs: These types of websites are managed by an individual or a small group of persons, they can cover any topics — they can give you fashion tips, music tips, travel tips, fitness tips. Nowadays professional blogging has become an external popular way of earning money online.
• E-commerce: These websites are well known as online shops. These websites allow us to make purchasing products and online payments for products and services. Stores can be handled as standalone websites.
• Portfolio: These types of websites acts as an extension of a freelancer resume. It provides a convenient way for potential clients to view your work while also allowing you to expand on your skills or services.
• Brochure: These types of websites are mainly used by small businesses, these types of websites act as a digital business card, and used to display contact information, and to advertise services, with just a few pages.
• News and Magazines: These websites needs less explanation, the main purpose of these types of websites is to keep their readers up-to-date from current affairs whereas magazines focus on the entertainment.
• Social Media: We all know about some famous social media websites like Facebook, Twitter, Reddit, and many more. These websites are usually created to let people share their thoughts, images, videos, and other useful components.
• Educational: Educational websites are quite simple to understand as their name itself explains it. These websites are designed to display information via audio or videos or images.
• Portal: These types of websites are used for internal purposes within the school, institute, or any business, These websites often contain a login process allowing students to access their credential information or allows employees to access their emails and alerts.

Please Login to comment...

Similar reads.

• Web Technologies

Improve your Coding Skills with Practice

What kind of Experience do you want to share?

A site or website is a central location of web pages that are related and accessed by visiting the website's home page using a browser . For example, the Computer Hope website address URL (uniform resource locator) is https://www.computerhope.com . You can access any web page on our website (like this one) from our home page . The image shows how the Computer Hope website looked in 2021.

• How to open a website.

When was the first website created?

How many websites are on the internet, what is the difference between a website and a web page, who creates websites on the internet, what can you do on a website.

• Types of websites.

Should I use "website" or "web site" when writing?

Should i capitalize the "w" in website.

• Related information.
• Internet help and support.

How to open a website

To view a website requires a browser (e.g., Internet Explorer , Edge , Safari , Firefox , or Chrome ). For example, you are reading this web page using a browser. Once in a browser, you can open a website by entering the URL in the address bar . For example, typing "https://www.computerhope.com" opens the Computer Hope home page. You can use a search engine if you don't know the URL of the website you want to visit.

Tim Berners-Lee built the first website at CERN and launched it on August 6, 1991 . You can still visit and browse the first website .

• The history of the Internet.
• Who invented the Internet?

As of January 2023, depending on which survey or hosting company is referenced, there are approximately 1.9 billion websites. Many of these websites are unused or not visited by people, but the websites still exist and are included in the count.

A website refers to a central location with more than one or several web pages. For example, Computer Hope is considered a website with thousands of different web pages, including the page you're reading now.

In the above URL example, the website is computerhope.com and the web page is "url.htm."

A web page does not need a file extension like .htm or .html to be a web page. Many sites are designed to show a default page in a directory (e.g., index.html ) or set up to have no file extensions.

See our web page definition for a breakdown of all the elements that help make up a web page.

Any business, government, organization, or person can create a website on the Internet. Today, the Internet consists of billions of websites created by millions of people. You can even create a website or blog on the Internet. See the below types of websites section for a list of the categories of websites.

• How to start in HTML and web design .

On most websites, you read the information on each web page. If there are any interesting hyperlinks , you follow those links by clicking or tapping on them to find more information or perform a task. You can also listen to music, watch videos, shop, communicate, and more on many websites.

• What things to do when bored on the Internet.

Types of websites

There are billions of websites today that can be broken into one of the following categories. Realize that a website can fall into more than one of the following categories. For example, a website may be a forum , webmail , blog , or search engine .

• Archive website.
• Blog (weblog).
• Business website and corporate website.
• Community website.
• Content website and information website.
• Dating website.
• Dynamic website.
• E-commerce website.
• Educational website.
• Gaming website.
• Government website.
• Help and Q&A website.
• Malicious website.
• Media sharing website.
• Mirror website.
• News website.
• P2P website and Torrent website.
• Personal website.
• Personality website.
• Review website.
• School website.
• Scraper website.
• Search engine website.

Secure website

• Social networking website.
• Social news website.

Static website

Unsecure website.

• Webcomic website.
• Webmail website.
• Wiki website.

Archive website

An archive website is a site that keeps a record of the contents of one or more other websites. The Internet Archive is the best example of an archive website.

Blog (weblog)

A blog is a website often created by an individual to keep a list of entries that interests them. See our weblog definition for a full description, services used to create a blog, and related pages. A microblog website is another popular form of blogging website that limits the number of characters someone can post in each blog entry. Twitter is an example of a social networking website for a microblog .

Business website and corporate website

A business website or corporate website is created to provide account information and access to customers, partners, clients, and potential customers.

Community website

A community website is a website or section of a website that helps bring the visitors visiting the site together using chat , forums , or another form of bulletin board.

Content website and information website

A content website and an information website are created to display unique content , often related to a specific category. For example, Computer Hope could be considered a content site with computer-related content. Other categories could include a political website with content relating to politics or a political view or a religious website with information about a specific religion.

Dating website

A dating website helps connect people interested in meeting or dating other people. Most dating websites require a small fee, a description of yourself, and often ask questions to help find people that best match your interests.

Dynamic website

A dynamic website is a website that uses a database and server-side scripting to help dynamically generate the content on the website. WordPress sites and other CMS (content management system) solutions make it easier for anyone to have a website without knowing much about HTML (hypertext markup language) or programming. See our dynamic website page for further information on dynamic and static websites.

E-commerce website

An e-commerce (electronic commerce) website is any site created to sell online goods or services. Amazon is an example of an e-commerce website. An e-commerce website may be broken down further into one of the following subcategories.

An affiliate website is a website created to sell third-party products. For example, Amazon has an affiliate program for anyone to link to their site and make a commission when products are purchased. An affiliate website should not be confused with an e-commerce website.

An auction website is a website that allows other people to sell their goods or services. For example, eBay is one of the most well-known online auction websites. See our online auction page for further information and examples.

A classified ads website is a site that allows anyone to list goods or services, usually for free or at a small cost. Craigslist is an example of a classified ads website.

A crowdfunding website is set up to help support a business, person, or another cause by making a one-time or monthly payment. An example of a crowdfunding website is Kickstarter .

Educational website

An educational website is any website containing content that aids in learning. It could be a school website , a library website, a homework assistance website, or other tools for gaining knowledge online.

Gaming website

A gaming website is any website that features games that can be played on the website. Often these online games are created using HTML5 , Flash , or Java . Gaming websites should not be confused with gaming content websites with content relevant to gaming with no actual games to play on the website.

Government website

A government website is a department, local, or state government site that was created to help inform the public about government business and services. A local government website may also be set up to help promote tourism.

In the United States, a government website has the domain suffix .gov. In the United Kingdom, they use .gov.uk.

Help and Q&A website

A help website and questions and answers website is where anyone can post questions, and other users help answer those questions. A full list of help websites where you can ask questions is on the link below.

• Where can I ask a question on the Internet?

Malicious website

A malicious website is any website set up to infect another computer or collect personal data. For example, a malware website is created to infect any visitor with malware , spyware , or a trojan horse . These types of sites could have an infected download and, if downloaded, infects your computer.

Other common malicious websites include phishing websites . These sites are designed to look like other official sites (e.g., your bank), hoping that they can phish sensitive information such as your username and password.

Fake news websites are another type of malicious site created to appear as a legitimate news source to help spread fear and lies.

• How to know if a news story is fake news.
• How to protect yourself while on the Internet.

Media sharing website

A media sharing website is any website that specializes in allowing visitors to share one or more types of media . For example, YouTube is a site for sharing video media. SoundCloud is a site for sharing music. Flickr is a place to share photos. DeviantArt is a page for sharing art.

Mirror website

A mirror website is a complete duplicate of another website used when a website becomes overloaded. It helps with a website's speed in different parts of the world. See our mirror definition for further information. Also, although similar, a mirror site should not be confused with a scraper website or a CDN (content delivery network).

News website

A news website is dedicated to giving the latest local or world news. A news site may also be dedicated to a specific topic. For example, many computer-related news websites are dedicated to discussing the latest computer and technology-related news.

P2P website and Torrent website

A P2P website and Torrent website are sites created to list available torrents that can be downloaded using a file-sharing program.

A warez website is similar to a torrent website, except that it stores and hosts music, video, and software that anyone can download to their computer. A warez website describes a site where copyrighted material is illegally downloaded.

Personal website

A personal website is created by an individual that talks about their life, family, and life experiences, and maybe contains a résumé . Today, many people create personal websites as a blog or use social networking websites to store information about themselves.

Personality website

A personality website covers an individual, such as an artist, celebrity, influencer , musician, author, or another person. These websites are set up by someone affiliated with the person, such as a publicist, agency, or fan of the personality.

A portal is a website or service that offers a broad range of services, such as e-mail, games, quotes, search, news, and stocks. See our portal term page for further information.

Review website

A review website is any site that focuses on reviews about a product or service. For example, Yelp allows consumers to review businesses in their area. Other review sites may review other things, such as movies or products. Also, many e-commerce sites have reviews from people who've purchased their products.

A secure site or secure website is any website that transmits data securely ( encrypted ). Secure websites are identified by looking for a lock next to the URL or a URL starting with " https " instead of "http."

School website

A school website is a site created to represent a local school or college. School sites have an overview of a school, giving students and parents a place to log in and review grades and other school-related information.

Scraper website

A scraper website is a website illegally stealing ( scraping ) another website's content. Doing this could allow the person to generate advertising revenue if enough traffic was driven to the scraper website. However, these sites are against all advertisers' TOS (terms of service) and, when caught, are blocked by the company providing the advertising. A scraper website should not be confused with a mirror website set up with permission.

Search engine website

A search engine website is a website dedicated to helping people find information on the Internet. Google is an example of a search engine website. See our search engine definition for further information on search engines and related links.

Social networking website

A social networking website connects users with friends, family, celebrities, groups, and organizations. The service is usually free because the website may collect and use the users' information. Facebook and Twitter are examples of social networking websites. See our social networking definition for other examples of social networks and further information.

Social news website

A social news website is a site that generates its content from its members and once posted, all other members can vote if they enjoyed or liked the story. Reddit is an example of a social news website that allows everyone to post almost anything. It is a great place to find things that interest you the most on the Internet.

A static website is designed using only HTML and doesn't change or update automatically. See our dynamic website page for further information on dynamic and static websites.

An unsecure site or unsecure website is any website that does not transmit data securely ( encrypted ). Unsecure websites are identified by looking for a URL starting with " http " instead of "https." When on an unsecured website, be cautious with transmitted information that could be intercepted and read with a man-in-the-middle attack .

Webcomic website

A webcomic website is a site that posts a comic strip daily, weekly, or monthly.

Webmail website

A webmail website allows a person to view, send, and receive e-mail without installing software. An example of a webmail program is Gmail . See our webmail definition for other examples, information, and related links.

Wiki website

A wiki website is created using Wiki software and is often edited and updated by more than one person.

Both versions are technically correct. However, most style guides ( e.g., Microsoft Manual of Style and The Associated Press Stylebook ) suggest website (one word) instead of web site (two words) in all forms of writing.

If you're writing documentation for a program or user interface, always use the style used in the interface.

Unless the word "website" is at the beginning of a sentence, it should be all lowercase . See our web definition for further information about capitalizing the word "web."

Related information

• How to block a website.
• How to create a website with no coding experience.
• HTML help and support

Coupon code , Dynamic website , Internet , Internet terms , Portal , Review , Static website , Web , Web design , Web design terms , Web page

• Cambridge Dictionary +Plus

Meaning of website in English

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 audio

• This website is currently under construction .
• Their website looks amateurish .
• I've found a really useful website about allergies on the Net .
• Their website is fairly plain , but very easy to navigate .
• If you have any problems , consult the FAQs on our website.
• above/below the fold idiom
• address bar
• affiliate link
• instant-message
• internet-enabled
• service provider
• the World Wide Web
• troll factory

website | Intermediate English

Website | business english, examples of website, collocations with website.

These are words often used in combination with website .

Click on a collocation to see more examples of it.

Translations of website

Get a quick, free translation!

Word of the Day

cross-country

from one side of a country to another; all over a country

Apples and oranges (Talking about differences, Part 2)

Learn more with +Plus

• Recent and Recommended {{#preferredDictionaries}} {{name}} {{/preferredDictionaries}}
• Definitions Clear explanations of natural written and spoken English English Learner’s Dictionary Essential British English Essential American English
• Grammar and thesaurus Usage explanations of natural written and spoken English Grammar Thesaurus
• Pronunciation British and American pronunciations with audio English Pronunciation
• English–Chinese (Simplified) Chinese (Simplified)–English
• English–Chinese (Traditional) Chinese (Traditional)–English
• English–Dutch Dutch–English
• English–French French–English
• English–German German–English
• English–Indonesian Indonesian–English
• English–Italian Italian–English
• English–Japanese Japanese–English
• English–Norwegian Norwegian–English
• English–Polish Polish–English
• English–Portuguese Portuguese–English
• English–Spanish Spanish–English
• English–Swedish Swedish–English
• Dictionary +Plus Word Lists
• English    Noun
• Intermediate    Noun
• Business    Noun
• Collocations
• Translations
• All translations

To add website to a word list please sign up or log in.

Add website to one of your lists below, or create a new one.

{{message}}

Something went wrong.

There was a problem sending your report.

• Skip to main content
• Skip to search
• Skip to select language
• Sign up for free

World Wide Web

The World Wide Web —commonly referred to as WWW , W3 , or the Web —is a system of interconnected public webpages accessible through the Internet . The Web is not the same as the Internet: the Web is one of many applications built on top of the Internet.

Tim Berners-Lee proposed the architecture of what became known as the World Wide Web. He created the first web server , web browser , and webpage on his computer at the CERN physics research lab in 1990. In 1991, he announced his creation on the alt.hypertext newsgroup, marking the moment the Web was first made public.

The system we know today as "the Web" consists of several components:

• The HTTP protocol governs data transfer between a server and a client.
• To access a Web component, a client supplies a unique universal identifier, called a URL (uniform resource locator) or URI (uniform resource identifier) (formally called Universal Document Identifier (UDI)).
• HTML (hypertext markup language) is the most common format for publishing web documents.

Linking, or connecting resources through hyperlinks , is a defining concept of the Web, aiding its identity as a collection of connected documents.

Soon after inventing the Web, Tim Berners-Lee founded the W3C (World Wide Web Consortium) to standardize and develop the Web further. This consortium consists of core Web interest groups, such as web browser developers, government entities, researchers, and universities. Its mission includes education and outreach.

• Learn the Web
• World Wide Web on Wikipedia
• The W3C website

A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

A lock ( ) or https:// means you've safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

• Signs and Symptoms
• U.S. Chickenpox Vaccination Program
• Clinical Overview
• Guidance for People at High Risk
• Clinical Signs and Symptoms
• Communication Resources
• Reporting and Surveillance
• Lab Testing
• Varicella Outbreak Control
• Shingles (Herpes Zoster)

Clinical Overview of Chickenpox (Varicella)

• Varicella (chickenpox) is an acute infectious disease caused by varicella-zoster virus (VZV).

The most common chickenpox complications are bacterial infections of the skin and soft tissues in children and pneumonia in adults.

• The most effective prevention for varicella is chickenpox vaccination.

Varicella is highly caused by varicella-zoster virus (VZV), which is a DNA virus that is a member of the herpesvirus group. Primary infection with VZV causes varicella. After the primary infection, VZV stays in the body (in the sensory nerve ganglia) as a latent infection. Reactivation of latent infection causes herpes zoster (shingles).

Who is at risk

People at risk for severe varicella include:

• Immunocompromised people without evidence of immunity to varicella.
• Pregnant women without evidence of immunity to varicella.
• Newborns whose mothers have varicella from 5 days before to 2 days after delivery.
• Premature babies exposed to varicella or herpes zoster.

Incubation period

The average incubation period for varicella is 14 to 16 days after exposure to a varicella or a herpes zoster rash. It takes from 10 to 21 days after exposure to the virus for someone to develop varicella.

How it spreads

Varicella is highly contagious‎.

Varicella is more contagious than mumps and rubella and less contagious than measles.

People with breakthrough varicella are also contagious.

The virus can be spread from person to person by direct contact, inhalation of aerosols from vesicular fluid of skin lesions of acute varicella or zoster; and possibly through infected respiratory secretions that also may be aerosolized.

A person with varicella is considered contagious beginning 1 to 2 days before rash onset until all the chickenpox lesions have crusted. Vaccinated people may develop lesions that do not crust. These people are considered contagious until no new lesions have appeared for 24 hours.

Based on studies of transmission among household members, about 90% of susceptible close contacts will get varicella after exposure to a person with disease.

Although limited data are available to assess the risk of VZV transmission from zoster, one household study found that the risk for VZV transmission from herpes zoster was approximately 20% of the risk for transmission from varicella.

Breakthrough varicella is also contagious

One study of varicella transmission in household settings found that people with mild breakthrough varicella (<50 lesions) who were vaccinated with one dose of varicella vaccine were one-third as contagious as unvaccinated people with varicella. However, people with breakthrough varicella with 50 or more lesions were just as contagious as unvaccinated people with the disease.

Disease rates

Prior to vaccine introduction:

Varicella used to be very common in the United States and contributed significantly to the burden of childhood disease. In the early 1990s each year:

• More than 4 million people got varicella
• 10,500 to 13,500 were hospitalized
• 100 to 150 died

More than 90% of cases, 70% of hospitalizations, and about half of the deaths occurred in children.

Clinical features

A mild prodrome of fever and malaise may occur 1 to 2 days before rash onset, particularly in adults. In children, the rash is often the first sign of disease.

In unvaccinated people, varicella progresses rapidly from macular to papular to vesicular lesions before crusting.

Breakthrough varicella occurs less frequently among those who have received 2 doses of vaccine; compared with those who have received only 1 dose.

Photos of Chickenpox

Breakthrough Varicella Fact Sheet

Chickenpox vaccination

CDC recommends two doses of varicella vaccine for all children, adolescents, and adults without evidence of immunity to varicella. Those who previously received one dose of varicella vaccine should receive their second dose for best protection against the disease.

Prevention in healthcare settings

Nosocomial transmission of VZV is well-recognized and can be life-threatening to certain groups of patients. Reports of nosocomial transmission are uncommon in the United States since the introduction of varicella vaccine.

Patients, healthcare providers, and visitors with varicella or herpes zoster can spread VZV to susceptible patients and healthcare providers in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and other healthcare settings. In healthcare settings, transmissions have been attributed to delays in the diagnosis or reporting of varicella and herpes zoster and failures to implement control measures promptly.

Although all susceptible patients in healthcare settings are at risk for severe varicella and complications, certain patients without evidence of immunity are at increased risk.

Testing and diagnosis

Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) laboratory testing information applies to testing and diagnosis of primary VZV infection (varicella) and reactivation (herpes zoster). Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is the most helpful laboratory test for confirming cases of varicella. PCR can detect VZV DNA rapidly.

Recommendations for Clinicians for Testing Varicella

Laboratory Testing for Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV)

Specimen Collection for Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV) Testing

Patient management

Routine testing after 2 doses is not recommended‎.

Healthcare providers should follow standard precautions, airborne precautions (negative air-flow rooms), and contact precautions until lesions are dry and crusted. If negative air-flow rooms are not available, patients with varicella should be isolated in closed rooms. They should have no contact with people without evidence of immunity. Patients with varicella should be cared for by staff with evidence of immunity.

Evidence of immunity

Evidence of immunity to varicella includes any of the following:

• Preschool-age children (i.e., age 12 months through 3 years): one dose
• School-age children, adolescents, and adults: two doses
• Commercial assays can be used to assess disease-induced immunity, but they lack sensitivity to detect vaccine-induced immunity (i.e., they might yield false-negative results).
• Birth in the United States before 1980 (should not be considered evidence of immunity for healthcare personnel, pregnant women, and immunocompromised people)
• Diagnosis or verification of a history of varicella or herpes zoster by a healthcare provider

Verify history of varicella

Healthcare providers should inquire about either:

• An epidemiologic link to another typical varicella case or to a laboratory confirmed case.
• Evidence of laboratory confirmation, if testing was performed at the time of acute disease.

People who have neither of the above criteria should not be considered as having a valid history of disease. For these people, a second dose of vaccine is recommended if they previously received only one dose. If a healthcare provider verifies the diagnosis based on the above criteria, then vaccination is not needed.

Impact of the U.S. Varicella Vaccination Program

25 years of the program‎

Main findings from 1995-2019.

The varicella vaccine program has dramatically decreased virus circulation and increased community protection.

• Varicella hospitalizations and deaths declined 94% and 97%, respectively, among people 50 years old and younger.
• The greatest decline in cases was among people 20 years old and younger who were born during the program, with 97% drop in hospitalizations and more than 99% drop in deaths.
• The risk of shingles is significantly lower among vaccinated children, including those who are immunocompromised.
• There is about an 80% lower risk of shingles among healthy vaccinated children compared to unvaccinated children who had wild-type varicella.

Disease prevented and dollar saved

During the first 25 years, the U.S varicella vaccination program saved 118,000 life-years, at net societal savings of $23.4 billion. and prevented an estimated:

• 91 million cases
• 238,000 hospitalizations
• 1.1 million hospitalization days
• 2,000 deaths

For every $1 spent, the estimated return on investment is $1.70; however, the benefits of the investment will continue to accrue beyond 2020.

Case definitions

Chickenpox Reporting and Surveillance

Varicella Outbreak Identification, Investigation, & Control

• Materials for Talking to Parents about Vaccines
• Chickenpox Vaccine Information for Healthcare Professionals
• ACIP Recommendations for Varicella Prevention | MMWR
• Red Book 2018: Varicella-Zoster Virus Infections
• Pink Book: Varicella

Chickenpox (Varicella)

Chickenpox is a highly contagious disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). Protect your child from severe symptoms with the chickenpox vaccine.

For Everyone

Health care providers, public health.

An official website of the United States government

Here's how you know

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock A locked padlock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

• The Attorney General
• Organizational Chart
• Budget & Performance
• Privacy Program
• Press Releases
• Photo Galleries
• Guidance Documents
• Publications
• Information for Victims in Large Cases
• Justice Manual
• Business and Contracts
• Why Justice ?
• DOJ Vacancies
• Legal Careers at DOJ
• Our Offices

Archived Press Releases

Archived News

Para Notícias en Español

Justice Department Announces Framework for Prosecutors to Strengthen National Response to Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence

The Justice Department today announced an important new resource for prosecutors. The Framework for Prosecutors to Strengthen Our National Response to Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Involving Adult Victims , written by prosecutors for prosecutors, sets out five principles that, if implemented, will lead to better outcomes for victims, safer communities, and greater accountability for perpetrators of sexual assault and domestic violence.

“When investigating and prosecuting the heinous crimes of sexual assault and domestic violence, prosecutors must pursue justice in a manner that does not retraumatize victims and survivors,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “This framework for prosecutors reflects the Justice Department’s commitment to strengthening our collective response to sexual assault and domestic violence, and to setting the standard for how prosecutors should respond to victims and survivors.”

Declinations of meritorious allegations may result from misconceptions about how crimes involving sexual assault and domestic violence are committed and reported, how victims give their accounts, and the evidence required to prove their accounts beyond a reasonable doubt. This guide addresses that phenomenon by discussing: (1) relying on the evidentiary value of the victim’s account to frame the investigation; (2) the fundamental importance of prosecutors, investigators, and victim specialists working together and meeting with victims; (3) using the law and evidentiary rules effectively; (4) being thoughtful about what justice and accountability look like; and (5) sustaining a productive, healthy, and committed workforce by redefining success– all of which are rooted in a prosecutor’s primary obligation to seek the truth and uphold the U.S. Constitution and the rule of law.

“Achieving justice for victims and survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence is one of the Department’s highest priorities,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco. “This guide provides a framework that we encourage prosecutors throughout the country to use when evaluating, investigating, and prosecuting these critically important cases.”

More than 120 state, Tribal, military, and federal prosecutors, as well as advocates, academics, and investigators from an array of jurisdictions were consulted in developing this guide. The principles set forth in this guide are designed to encourage and assist prosecutors of all levels of experience to handle cases involving sexual assault and domestic violence. This guide further serves as a complement to the Justice Department’s 2022 updated guidance on Improving Law Enforcement Response to Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence by Identifying and Preventing Gender Bias .

“The Justice Department is committed to strengthening the prosecution of sexual assault and domestic violence crimes and ensuring a trauma-informed approach to working with victims,” said Acting Associate Attorney General Benjamin C. Mizer. “This guide provides a practical, accessible framework that prosecutors can use when evaluating, investigating, and prosecuting these crimes. We thank everyone who contributed to this guide for sharing their expertise and experience and for their years of dedicated work to address and combat sexual assault and domestic violence.”

“The framework announced today reaffirms our commitment to expanding access to justice for all survivors, who deserve respect and the right to be heard,” said Director Rosie Hidalgo of the Justice Department’s Office on Violence Against Women (OVW). “Enhancing the prosecution response to sexual assault and domestic violence in a trauma-informed manner is a key piece in ending gender-based violence, as part of a broader coordinated community response that includes services and support for survivors, and can have a real, immediate impact on the safety of survivors and entire communities.”

In conjunction with this guide, OVW launched a new webpage with resources designed to assist prosecutors in implementing the guide and its principles.

OVW provides leadership in developing the nation’s capacity to reduce violence through the implementation of the Violence Against Women Act and subsequent legislation. Created in 1995, OVW administers financial and technical assistance to communities across the country that are developing programs, policies, and practices aimed at ending domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. In addition to overseeing federal grant programs, OVW funds national training and technical assistance and undertakes initiatives in response to special needs identified by communities facing acute challenges. Learn more at www.justice.gov/ovw .

Related Content

Good morning. Thanks, Kristen. And thanks to all of you.

The Attorney General is always a tough act to follow. But I will now take my best shot at it and, if I can, say a few words about the...

The Justice Department and the Department of Labor announced today separate agreements with Arthur Grand Technologies Inc. (Arthur Grand), an information technology services firm based in Virginia. The Justice Department’s ...

• Division of Corporations

The Division of Corporations is the State of Florida's official business entity index and commercial activity website.

Para español, seleccione de la lista

• Department of State
• Start a Business

Start E-Filing

• Non-Profit Corporation

Florida Non-Profit Corporation

Articles of Incorporation

Important Message Regarding Credit/Debit Card Payments for Online Filings

The Division of Corporations uses a 3 rd party, NIC Services, LLC dba Tyler Payment Services, to process our credit/debit card payments for Online filings. A confirmation payment receipt will be emailed from   [email protected]    for successful transactions. Please keep a copy of the receipt, there is information contained in the receipt that will help us locate your filing and reconcile it.

To create a Florida non-profit corporation OR correct your rejected online filing:

• Review the instructions for filing the Articles of Incorporation for Florida Non-Profit Corporations .
• Gather all information required to complete the form.
• Have a valid form of payment .
• If additional space is needed to meet IRS filing requirements, prior to filing contact the Department of State at [email protected]  for appropriate instructions.

File or Correct Florida Non-Profit Articles of Incorporation

Filing Information

Answers to common questions about e-filing a Florida non-profit corporation are listed below.

What Web Browsers are supported?

The Division of Corporations' Web Application supports later versions of the following browsers:

The above browsers cover over 96% of browser market share.  Other browsers supporting HTML5 should also work fine with our web application.  If you are considering choosing or adding a new browser, you can see how they compare in HTML5 feature support  here .

What are my payment options to file the Articles of Incorporation online?

• Credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express or Discover).
• Debit card (Visa or MasterCard logo).
• Prepaid Sunbiz E-File Account .

Is the corporation name already in use?

Search our records to determine if the name is distinguishable and available for you to use.

I don’t want to file online. Can I print and mail my application and payment?

• Yes, you can print the Articles of Incorporation for a Florida Non-Profit Corporation (PDF) application, and mail it with a check or money order.
• All payments by credit card must use the online application.

Will I receive a confirmation that my filing was accepted?

Yes, you will receive a confirmation letter (which will include the corporation’s name, assigned document number, filed date, and its effective date, if requested). Your Certificate of Status and/or Certified Copy will also be included if you opted to purchase those items.

Online filings:

• You will receive your filing confirmation by email at the address you provided.
• Your confirmation will be sent to you once the document is examined and approved by the Division of Corporations.
• You will not receive a confirmation by U.S. Mail.

Filings by mail:

• You will receive your confirmation by U.S. Mail.
• It will be addressed to the mailing address you provided on the application.

How long does it take for my Articles of Incorporation to be processed and posted on Sunbiz?

• Filed online with a credit card:  Your document will be processed in the order it was received.
• If paying by check or money order: Your document will be processed in the order it was received.

How do I sign the online form?

• Typing your name in the signature block is sufficient pursuant to s. 15.16 , F. S.
• Electronic signatures have the same legal effect as original signatures.
• Typing someone’s name (signature) without permission constitutes forgery.

Can I get a copy of my corporation’s Articles of Incorporation?

Yes. Once your Articles of Incorporation have been processed and posted, you can download an image of the report from Sunbiz free of charge.

Why was my filing rejected?

The Division of Corporations is required to examine your document for minimum statutory filing requirements. If you received a rejection notice, then your application failed to meet one or more of those requirements.

How do I correct a rejected filing?

Enter your tracking number and PIN (supplied in the rejection email) in the Correct Articles of Incorporation form.

• Limited Liability Company
• Profit Corporation
• Instructions for Articles of Incorporation (FL Non-Profit)
• Search Corporation Records
• Limited Partnership
• Fictitious Name Registration

New Florida/Foreign Corporation Fees

Public Records Notice:   Any information you submit on your document will be part of the public record and made available for public view on the Division’s website.

Back to Top

Ron DeSantis, Governor Cord Byrd, Secretary of State

• Privacy Policy
• Accessibility

Questions or comments? Contact Us Submit a public records request.

Under Florida law, e-mail addresses are public records. If you do not want your e-mail address released in response to a public records request, do not send electronic mail to this entity. Instead, contact this office by phone or in writing.

Copyright © 2024 State of Florida, Florida Department of State.

Florida Department of State

The Centre of Tallahassee 2415 N. Monroe Street, Suite 810 Tallahassee, FL 32303

Ecommerce: Electronic Commerce Definition, Benefits, Types, Examples

• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to Linkedin

What Is ecommerce?

Ecommerce is the buying and selling of goods and services via the internet, and the transfer of money and data to complete the sales. it's also known as electronic commerce or internet commerce..

Today, questions about e-commerce usually center around which channels are best to execute business online, but one of the most burning questions is the appropriate spelling of e-commerce.

The truth is, there isn't any one spelling or abbreviation of electronic commerce that's right or wrong, and it usually comes down to preference.

Here's a few variations of how e-commerce is spelled:

(in other words, "what is e-commerce" is far easier to answer than how to spell it, so we may have to agree to disagree on the proper spelling)., how does e-commerce work.

The process of buying and selling goods and services online typically consists of the exchange of data or currency to process a transaction involving more than one entity or individual.

E-commerce allows a customer to place an order via online stores, websites, or social channels. After the customer places an order, the order details are relayed to a central backend system – an e-commerce platform, which facilitates or performs several tasks, including:

• Receiving the order
• Updating stock or inventory levels and confirming if there's sufficient stock
• Processing the payment for the order
• Confirming adequate funds were received to fulfill the order
• Notifying the customer that the order was successfully processed
• Notifying the shipping department for the order to be shipped to the customer, or access to the service to be granted

Types of e-commerce: Electronic commerce business models and examples

As commerce continues to evolve, so do the ways that it's conducted.

The most traditional types of e-commerce business models and examples of how they work include:

• Business to Consumer (B2C): B2C e-commerce is the most popular e-commerce model. Business to consumer means that the sale is taking place between a business and a consumer, like when you buy something from an online retailer.
• Business to Business (B2B): B2B e-commerce refers to a business selling a good or service to another business, like a manufacturer and wholesaler, or a wholesaler and a retailer. Business to business e-commerce isn't consumer-facing, and usually involves products like raw materials, software, or products that are combined. Manufacturers also sell directly to retailers via B2B electronic commerce.
• Direct to Consumer (D2C): Direct to consumer e-commerce is the newest model of ecommerce, and trends within this category are continually changing. D2C means that a brand is selling directly to their end customer without going through a retailer, distributor, or wholesaler. Subscriptions are a popular D2C item, and social selling via platforms like InstaGram, Pinterest, TikTok, Facebook, SnapChat, etc. are popular platforms for direct to consumer sales.
• Consumer to Consumer (C2C): C2C e-commerce refers to the sale of a good or service to another consumer. Consumer to consumer sales take place on platforms like eBay, Etsy, and Fivver.
• Consumer to Business (C2B): Consumer to business is when an individual sells their services or products to a business organization. C2B encompasses influencers offering exposure, photographers, consultants, freelance writers, etc.
• Business to Government (B2G): Also known as business-to-administration (B2A), business to government involves the sale of goods and services between the business sector as a supplier and a government entity as a customer. For example, government agencies may orders goods or services from external third-party contractors for cleaning and maintaining of public spaces like parks.
• Consumer to Government (C2G): Also called consumer-to-administration (C2A), consumer to government enables consumers to provide feedback or request information regarding public agencies directly to the government administration or authorities. Examples include paying an electricity bill or taxes through a government website.

Types of goods and services you can sell via an e-commerce business

There are generally three types of goods and services you can sell online:.

• Physical goods: The sale of physical goods is the exchange of monetary value for the purchase of goods that are tangible and have physical mass, for example, merchandize. Physical goods include both durable (think: cars, TVs, furniture) and non-durable goods (e.g., food and beverages).
• Digital goods: The sale of digital goods involves the exchange of monetary value for purchase of good that are intangible and exist in digital form, such as digital media like audio files, video files, and e-books.
• E-commerce services: The sale of e-commerce services involves the exchange of monetary value in return for value to customers that want to achieve specific outcomes. Put another way, a service is a means of delivering value to customers by facilitating specific outcomes that customers expect to achieve. Examples of e-commerce services include transportation, healthcare, and education.

Examples of ecommerce revenue models

An e-commerce business is a business that exchanges or sells products and services online. Everyone from independent freelancers to small businesses to the largest of corporations can benefit from the ability to sell their goods and services online at scale.

Following are some the most common types of e-commerce-business revenue models:

Retail: Retail e-commerce is the sale of products or services through an online store directly to a consumer without an intermediary. This ecommerce delivery model is also referred to by other terms such as online retail, e-tail, electronic retail, or e-retail.

Drop shipping: Drop shipping is the sale of products that are manufactured and shipped to consumers via a third party. The key difference from the retail ecommerce delivery model is that the selling party doesn’t stock or own inventory.

Digital products: These are downloadable items like templates, courses, e-books, software, or media that must be purchased for use. Whether it’s the purchase of software, tools, cloud-based products or digital assets, these represent a large percentage of ecommerce transactions.

White labeling: The white label business model involves a company selling products with its own branding but manufactured by others. After a customer places an order, the electronic commerce company receives the white labeled product, applies their branding and packaging, then delivers the product to the customer.

Wholesaling: Wholesale distribution involves products sold in bulk. Wholesale products are usually sold to a retailer, who then sells the products to consumers.

Private labeling: Private labeling is a suitable approach for companies that may not have upfront capital or don't have their own manufacturing space to produce goods. Typically, private label ecommerce businesses send their plans to a contracted manufacturer, which manufactures the product. The manufacturer, also referred to as Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), may also have the ability to ship directly to a customer or ship directly to the company receiving the order.

Services: These are skills like coaching, writing, and influencer marketing, that are purchased and paid for online.

Subscription: A popular D2C model, subscription services are recurring purchases of products or services on a regular basis.

Crowdfunding: Crowdfunding allows sellers to raise startup capital in order to bring their product to the market. Once enough consumers have purchased the item, it's then created and shipped.

Benefits and disadvantages of ecommerce

Online commerce offers a plethora of benefits and features , from selling everywhere to personalized experiences that drive loyalty – and electric commerce provides a 24/7 storefront.

Let's dive into the top benefits of e-commerce:

• Convenience & accessibility. E-commerce can occur 24/7; for this reason, it provides customers with the best in both convenience and accessibility. They can find what they need, when they need it, and directly from their mobile or desktop devices. This level of convenience and access translates into sales and revenue opportunity round the clock for electronic commerce businesses.
• Increased selection of products. Retail brands have the flexibility to offer a wider selection of products through their online store online compared to their physical brick-and-mortar stores. Many retail brands also offer consumers access to exclusive inventory and promotional offers that aren't available elsewhere.
• Lower start-up cost. Compared to traditional retail stores, pure-play e-commerce businesses can avoid a lot of upfront start-up costs associated with running physical stores such as rent, inventory, and in-store headcount. However, they can have warehouse costs and shipping costs.
• International or cross-border sales opportunities. As long as a customers can place an order online and the e-commerce store can capture the revenue from the sale, then ship the product or service to the customer's location, online stores aren't limited by geographic location as brick-and-mortar stores are. An ecommerce store allows your business to reach more customers, globally — maximizing selling potential.
• Easily retarget customers online. E-commerce stores regularly use retargeting as a way to attract and retain existing customers, or acquire new look-a-like customers. With retargeting, you can either target your existing customers, or your most profitable customers with products that are similar to the ones they love, or complement their past purchases. Retargeting is also a strategy used by online stores to recover abandoned carts.
• Scalability with lower operational costs: As the customer base grows, brick-and-mortar retail operations are forced to either relocate to a larger location or expand their physical store footprint, all of which comes with significant costs. In contrast, an e-commerce platform can be equipped to handle high traffic volume and sales spikes, enabling an e-commerce businesses to scale with increased inventory and order fulfillment.
• Delivery personalized experiences. E-commerce businesses can personalize everything from onsite search to dynamic pricing and curated product recommendations. With an AI-powered e-commerce platform, you can upsell, cross-sell, and present products that customers are most likely to be interested in, thereby increasing revenue-per-customer
• Access to new technologies: With progressive enhancements to e-commerce platforms and technologies, you can always find ways to streamline your e-commerce business operations to save time and money. In contrast, there are limitations to what technology can do to streamline physical stores. Electronic commerce has the upper hand in its ability to leverage technology to streamline operations, market products, improve team collaboration, and provide faster customer service.

In comparison to a brick and mortar store, an ecommerce business has disadvantages, which include:

• Limited interactions with customers. If customers have questions or an issue with a product they purchased, they can visit a physical store and speak directly with a store manager or customer-service rep to address their issue by returning or replacing the product. Ecommerce business are can't provide direct in-person customer service and support. Some e-commerce websites employ online chat or click-to-call features to reach a live person, but it's not a standard practice.
• No ability to try-and-buy. Visual representation of products on e-commerce stores using images or video cannot deliver the full experience a physical store is able to provide its customers. For example, at a departmental or a footwear store you have the ability to try it and then buy it.
• Lack of instant gratification. With e-commerce, you must wait for the product to be shipped to you. While e-commerce businesses like Amazon have made significant investments to improve last-mile delivery by offering same-day delivery for some of its products, they can't offer the instant gratification physical stores provide customers.
• Unreliable technology and security breaches. E-commerce businesses are susceptible to website crashes, or websites needing to be taken down, especially in the event of a security breach compromising personal customer data. This leads to loss of sales and revenue while the electronic commerce store is down.
• Stiff competition. Due to low barrier to entry and low start-up costs, competitors can easily enter the market selling the same or competing products at lower costs, thereby cutting into your margins and revenue. As a result, e-commerce business must be hyper-diligent in their marketing strategies to remain competitive.

Top examples of e-commerce companies

E-commerce accounts for trillions of dollars in sales every year. Today it’s almost inconceivable that a company wouldn’t be using a digital space to drive sales and bottom lines.

Here are some examples of global e-commerce companies in 2024:

• Amazon: By far one of the largest e-commerce brands worldwide with nearly U.S. $575 billion dollars in sales for 2023 . With a market capitalization of over one trillion US dollars, Amazon captures 37.8% of all online sales, according to Statista. Amazon prioritizes a personalized and customer-focused approach, with the goal of making each shopping experience unique and customer-centric. Amazon was one of the first to introduce a review system on its website in 1995, improving consumer trust and engagement by allowing users to provide feedback on individual products.
• Alibaba: Launched in 1999, Alibaba is the most successful e-commerce retailer in China; it's sometimes referred to as the “Amazon of China.” Alibaba manages a network of delivery firms through Cainiao that can process up to 30 million items per day . Under the Alibaba Group umbrella, it boasts the largest B2B (Alibaba.com), C2C (Taobao.com), and B2C (Tmall) marketplaces across the globe.
• Prosus: Based in the Netherlands, Prosus N.V. stands out as a top global e-commerce brand with a diverse portfolio that spans online classified ads, payments and fintech, edtech, and food delivery. Prosus prioritizes its customers and local communities, supporting entrepreneurship, investing in local talent, and nurturing businesses in dynamic markets to foster sustainable value and make a positive societal impact.
• Booking.com: Based in Amsterdam, Booking.com is a market leader in the travel industry, known for its simple, user-friendly platform that offers a 24/7 online booking system. The website streamlines the process of finding hotels, enhancing the booking experience with tools that match users with services. The site offers discounts, promotions, and price guarantees. Booking.com operates as a subsidiary of Booking Holdings, an American travel technology company.
• Uber: Starting as a ride-hailing app in 2009, Uber rapidly expanded into a global e-commerce brand, operating in about 70 countries and completing an average of about 26 million rides per day in 2023. The mobile app's ease of use for both personal and business mobility needs, coupled with customer support and a commitment to enhancing the ride experience through community specialists, has helped Uber build and sustain a global customer base of 150 million users . Expanding into food delivery and freight, Uber now operates in the healthcare space by allowing organizations to arrange rides and services for patients and caregivers.

The ecommerce trends changing how we buy, sell, and consume

As they say, what got you here won’t get you there. Success depends on how an electronic commerce business adapts to buyer preferences that are constantly changing.

Here are the top e-commerce trends you need to know:

• Unified omnichannel experiences: Seamless omnichannel experiences will make or break online retailers in 2024. Seventy-three percent of retail consumers shop across multiple channels, and retailers who use three or more channels increase customer engagement 251% more than single-channel retailers.
• Artificial intelligence: AI is revolutionizing e-commerce; it’s no wonder that 97.2% of businesses are investing in big data and AI. Furthermore, 91% of top businesses report having an ongoing investment in AI—which they’re hoping to increase.
• Social commerce: Social commerce drives massive engagement in 2024: 96.9 million people in the U.S. shop directly on social media, and 83% of Gen Z consumers say their shopping starts on social media. It’s expected that social commerce will reach $2.9 trillion by 2026 ; in other words, the time for retailers to get social is now.
• Sustainability: Consumers are increasingly seeking and prioritizing eco-conscious options, willing to pay premiums for sustainable goods and services. Yet 60% are wary of "greenwashing," suspecting many companies merely pretend to be sustainable, as per Mintel's latest report .
• Hyper personalization: Consumers expect personalized experiences at every step of the journey, including customer service touchpoints. Their personal preferences, transaction history, and past service interactions should all inform how you engage with them. According to CMSWire , hyper-personalization is a fast emerging trend that's expected to accelerate this year, primarily driven by advances in AI and ML.
• Voice search: Smart speakers and assistants become even smarter, and consumers are using them more consistently. About 40% of US internet users use a voice assistant at least monthly. Major retailers like Walmart have already started making it possible for customers to place orders directly through smart speakers, and more are in the process of doing so.
• Mobile-first UX design: 91% of consumers make online purchases on their smartphones. In 2024, m-commerce is expected to account for 40.4% of all e-commerce sales. Looking ahead, mobile commerce is expected to account for $710 billion , or 10.4% of all retail transactions by 2025. Mobile-first experiences are no longer just a nice-to-have; they're table stakes.
• Inflation and redefining value: Inflation continues to rank high on everyone’s mind. As consumers tighten their budgets and likely curb online spending, retailers should consider offering "basic" product options, as well as bundled and tiered service packages. This can make all the difference for the price-sensitive consumer.
• ROPO (research online, purchase offline) + BOPIS (buy online, pickup in store): Consumers are increasingly blending their buying journeys across online and offline channels, expecting a seamless omnichannel experience. Trends like ROPO and BOPIS aren't new, but they present challenges for retailers in tracking how virtual user experiences translate into physical sales. In 2024, retailers are investing in customer data platforms (CDPs) to boost their omnichannel capabilities.
• AR and VR-enhanced shopping: A big drawback to online shopping has been the inability to try on clothing before purchase. Augmented reality and virtual reality technologies have transformed this, enabling shoppers to virtually try on everything from clothes to makeup using their smartphones. A survey by Snap/Publicis Media reveals that 80% of shoppers feel more confident in their purchases when using these technologies, and 66% of those who use AR are less likely to return their purchases.
• Privacy and transparency: E-commerce customers like personalized experiences, but don't want to risk their personal data and privacy. Gartner expects that by the end of 2024, 75% of the world’s population will have its personal data covered under privacy regulations. Companies found in breach of compliance will face hefty fines and legal consequences. Data privacy and transparency must be at the forefront of any e-commerce personalization or CX strategy.
• “Human as a premium”: In the world of digital commerce, as business seek hyper-growth by adopting emerging technologies like AI, there's a growing appreciation for the human touch. According to a report by Mintel , 58% of US consumers says that communicating with an actual human is what makes interactions with salespeople and customer service reps a positive experience. The report predicts that in the coming years, we can expect to see an emerging trend of “human-as-a-premium."
• Direct to consumer: The US market for DTC e-commerce is expected to reach USD 213 billion in 2024 . As consumers increasingly favor brands offering easy interactions with better rewards or pricing, more brands and retailers are planning to optimize their direct-to-consumer experiences to collect high-quality data, improve personalization, and foster ongoing loyalty.
• Subscription commerce: Subscription models remain popular, offering consumers the ease and convenience of automation while providing e-commerce retailers with predictable, ongoing revenue; global subscription e-commerce is expected to reach $904.2 billion by 2026 .

E-commerce everywhere: Fast. Personalized. Shoppable. It starts HERE .

This article first appeared on The Future of Commerce , and is republished here with permission.

• Editorial Standards
• Reprints & Permissions

Company Filings | More Search Options

Company Filings More Search Options -->

• Commissioners
• Reports and Publications
• Securities Laws
• Commission Votes
• Corporation Finance
• Enforcement
• Investment Management
• Economic and Risk Analysis
• Trading and Markets
• Office of Administrative Law Judges
• Examinations
• Litigation Releases
• Administrative Proceedings
• Opinions and Adjudicatory Orders
• Accounting and Auditing
• Trading Suspensions
• How Investigations Work
• Receiverships
• Information for Harmed Investors
• Rulemaking Activity
• Proposed Rules
• Final Rules
• Interim Final Temporary Rules
• Other Orders and Notices
• Self-Regulatory Organizations
• Investor Education
• Small Business Capital Raising
• EDGAR – Search & Access
• EDGAR – Information for Filers
• Company Filing Search
• How to Search EDGAR
• About EDGAR
• Press Releases
• Speeches and Statements
• Securities Topics
• Upcoming Events
• Media Gallery
• Divisions & Offices
• Public Statements

Statement on the Financial Innovation and Technology for the 21st Century Act

Chair Gary Gensler

May 22, 2024

Introduction

For 90 years, the federal securities laws have played a crucial role in protecting the public. These critical protections were created in the wake of the Great Depression after many Americans suffered the consequences of inadequately regulated capital markets. We saw sky-high unemployment, bread lines, and shantytowns springing up due to mass foreclosures.

Back then, the rules didn’t exist. That’s why President Roosevelt and Congress created the SEC and the laws it administers.

At their core is the critical concept of registering securities that will be offered to the public and registering the intermediaries that facilitate the exchange of those securities. For securities, registration means that issuers provide robust disclosures and are liable if their material statements are untruthful. For intermediaries, registration brings with it rulebooks that prevent fraud and manipulation, safeguards against conflicts of interest, proper disclosures, segregation of customer assets, oversight by a self-regulatory organization, and routine inspection by the SEC.

Today, these rules do exist.

Many market participants in the crypto industry, however, have shown their unwillingness to comply with applicable laws and regulations for more than a decade, variously arguing that the laws do not apply to them or that a new set of rules should be created and retroactively applied to them to excuse their past conduct. Widespread noncompliance has resulted in widespread fraud, bankruptcies, failures, and misconduct. [1] As a result of criminal charges and convictions, some of the best-known leaders in the crypto industry are now in prison, awaiting sentencing, or subject to extradition back to the United States.

The SEC, during both Republican and Democratic Administrations, has allocated enforcement resources to holding crypto market participants accountable. Courts have time and again agreed with the SEC, ruling that the securities laws apply when crypto assets or crypto-related investment schemes are offered or sold as investment contracts. [2]

The Financial Innovation and Technology for the 21st Century Act

The Financial Innovation and Technology for the 21st Century Act (“FIT 21”) would create new regulatory gaps and undermine decades of precedent regarding the oversight of investment contracts, putting investors and capital markets at immeasurable risk.

First, the bill would remove investment contracts that are recorded on a blockchain from the statutory definition of securities and the time-tested protections of much of the federal securities laws.

Further, by removing this set of investment contracts from the statutory list of securities, the bill implies what courts have repeatedly ruled – but what crypto market participants have attempted to deny – that many crypto assets are being offered and sold as securities under existing law.

Second, the bill allows issuers of crypto investment contracts to self-certify that their products are a “decentralized” system and then be deemed a special class of “digital commodities” and thus not subject to SEC oversight. Whether something is a “digital commodity” would be subject to self-certification by “any person” that files a certification. The SEC would only have 60 days to review and challenge the certification that a product is a digital commodity. Those that the SEC successfully challenges would be re-classified as restricted digital assets and subject to the bill’s lighter-touch SEC oversight regime that excludes many core protections. There are more than 16,000 crypto assets that currently exist. Given limits on staff resources, and no new resources provided by the bill, it is implausible that the SEC could review and challenge more than a fraction of those assets. The result could be that the vast majority of the market might avoid even limited SEC oversight envisioned by the bill for crypto asset securities.

Third, the bill’s regulatory structure abandons the Supreme Court’s long-standing Howey test that considers the economic realities of an investment to determine whether it is subject to the securities laws. Instead, the bill makes that determination based on labels and the accounting ledger used to record transactions. It is akin to determining the level of investor protection based on whether a transaction is recorded in a notebook or a software database. But it’s the economic realities that should determine whether an asset is subject to the federal securities laws, not the type of recordkeeping ledger. The bill’s result would be weaker investor protection than currently exists for those assets that meet the Howey test.

Fourth, for those crypto investment contracts that would still fall under the SEC’s remit, the bill seeks to replace Roosevelt’s investor protection framework with fewer protections than investors are afforded in every other type of investment. Doing so increases risk to the American public.

Fifth, the bill specifically excludes crypto asset trading systems from the definition of an exchange and thus removes, for investors on crypto asset trading platforms, the protections that benefit investors on registered exchanges. These crypto trading platforms would be able to legally comingle their functions in a way that fosters conflicts of interest, may allow trading against their customers, and reduces custody protections for their customers.

Sixth, the legislation creates an exemption from regulation under this Act for any entity or organization that falls under a broadly defined category called “Decentralized Finance.” Any number of firms would qualify for the exemption, regardless of potential conflicts of interest. This would include firms that intermediate crypto securities transactions.

Finally, the bill could be read to functionally eliminate the current Regulation A and Regulation D offering restrictions for crypto securities by creating a new exempt offering framework. Non-accredited investors would be allowed to purchase crypto assets worth up to 10 percent of their net worth or annual income before the issuer would be required to provide any disclosure. That’s a lot of risk for ordinary investors to take on without disclosure.

Risks to the Broader Capital Markets

The self-certification process contemplated by the bill risks investor protection not just in the crypto space; it could undermine the broader $100 trillion capital markets by providing a path for those trying to escape robust disclosures, prohibitions preventing the loss and theft of customer funds, enforcement by the SEC, and private rights of action for investors in the federal courts. It could encourage non-compliant entities to try to choose what regulatory regimes they wish to be subjected to – not based on economic realities, but potentially based on a label.

What if perpetrators of pump and dump schemes and penny stock pushers contend that they’re outside of the securities laws by labeling themselves as crypto investment contracts or self-certifying that they are decentralized systems? The SEC would only have 60 days to contest their self-certification.

History has shown for 90 years that robust securities regulation both creates trust in markets and fosters innovation. There are countless examples of American companies across many industries that have made world-changing innovations while also registering their securities. It is through the securities laws that we get full, fair, and truthful disclosure that arms investors with the information they need to make investment decisions and enables regulators to guard against the types of fraud we’ve seen in the crypto field.

The crypto industry’s record of failures, frauds, and bankruptcies is not because we don't have rules or because the rules are unclear. It’s because many players in the crypto industry don’t play by the rules. We should make the policy choice to protect the investing public over facilitating business models of noncompliant firms.

[1] See Chainalysis, “2024 Crypto Crime Trends: Illicit Activity Down as Scamming and Stolen Funds Fall, But Ransomware and Darknet Markets See Growth” (Jan. 18, 2024), available at   https://www.chainalysis.com/blog/2024-crypto-crime-report-introduction/ (Independent analysts found more than $24 billion in crypto assets transferred via illicit computer addresses, almost $15 billion of which were from U.S.-sanctioned computer addresses); See also Khristopher J. Brooks, CBS News, “Cryptocurrency fraud is now the riskiest scam for consumers, according to BBB” (March 6, 2024), available at https://www.cbsnews.com/news/crypto-scam-risk-bbb-report/ (Retail investor fraud in crypto is rampant. Eighty percent of individuals targeted by crypto scams lost money, with 67,000 scams with a median amount lost of $3,800, according to data from the Better Business Bureau); See also Federal Bureau of Investigation, “Internet Crime Report 2023,” available at https://www.ic3.gov/Media/PDF/AnnualReport/2023_IC3Report.pdf (Approximately $3.94 billion in crypto assets was stolen in scams in 2023.).

[2] See , e.g., SEC v. Coinbase, Inc ., 2024 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 56994, at *3, *43 (S.D.N.Y. Mar. 27, 2024) (explaining that “the challenged transactions fall comfortably within the framework that courts have used to identify securities for nearly eighty years");  SEC v. Genesis Glob. Capital, LLC , No. 23-cv-00287 (ER), 2024 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 44372, at *44-45 (S.D.N.Y. Mar. 13, 2024) (“Under both  Howey  and Reves, the SEC has plausibly alleged that Defendants offered and sold unregistered securities through the Gemini Earn program.”);  SEC v. Wahi , No. 2:22-cv-01009-TL, 2024 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 36788, at *21 (W.D. Wash. Mar. 1, 2024) (holding that, “under  Howey , all of the crypto assets that Ramani purchased and traded were investment contracts,” including to the extent that the assets were traded on the secondary market);  SEC v. Terraform Labs Pte. Ltd. , No. 23-cv-1346 (JSR), 2023 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 230518, at *43 (S.D.N.Y. Dec. 28, 2023) (stating that “ Howey’s  definition of ‘investment contract’ was and remains a binding statement of the law, not dicta” and finding that “[t]here is no genuine dispute that the elements of the  Howey  test – ‘(i) investment of money (ii) in a common enterprise (iii)with profits to be derived solely from the efforts of others’ [ ] have been met for UST, LUNA, wLUNA, and MIR [the crypto assets at issue]”);  SEC v. Ripple Labs, Inc. , 20-cv-10832 (AT), 2023 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 120486, at *19-20 (S.D.N.Y. July 13, 2023) (rejecting defendants’ argument that, in addition to satisfying the  Howey  test, all investment contracts must contain certain additional "essential ingredients" and finding that Ripple’s institutional sales of its XRP crypto token constituted the unregistered offer and sale of investment contracts and therefore securities);  SEC v. Terraform Labs Pte. Ltd. , No. 23-cv-1346 (JSR), 2023 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 132046, at *21-22 (S.D.N.Y. July 31, 2023) (rejecting argument that the Major Questions Doctrine “prevent[s] the SEC from alleging the company's digital assets to be ‘investment contracts’” and explaining that “Defendants cannot wield a doctrine intended to be applied in exceptional circumstances as a tool to disrupt the routine work that Congress expected the SEC and other administrative agencies to perform.”);  SEC v. LBRY, Inc. , 639 F. Supp. 3d 211, 221–22 (D.N.H. 2022) (granting summary judgment for SEC and rejecting fair notice defense, explaining that “[t]he SEC has not based its enforcement action here on a novel interpretation of a rule that by its terms does not expressly prohibit the relevant conduct. Instead, the SEC has based its claim on a straightforward application of a venerable Supreme Court precedent that has been applied by hundreds of federal courts across the country over more than 70 years.”);  SEC v. NAC Found., LLC , 512 F. Supp. 3d 988, 994 (N.D. Cal. 2021) (denying motion to dismiss and noting that motion “falls well short of demonstrating that the SEC's characterization of ABTC as a ‘security’ is implausible for pleading purposes”);  SEC v. Kik Interactive Inc. , 492 F. Supp. 3d 169, 174, 182–84 (S.D.N.Y. 2020) (granting SEC summary judgment on grounds that Kik offered digital currency Kin as a security);  SEC v. Telegram Grp. Inc. , 448 F. Supp. 3d 352, 371 (S.D.N.Y. 2020) (granting the SEC’s motion for a preliminary injunction notwithstanding Telegram’s argument that investors “bought Grams with the expectation to use them as currency” and not “with an expectation of profit”).

• Dictionaries home
• American English
• Collocations
• German-English
• Grammar home
• Practical English Usage
• Learn & Practise Grammar (Beta)
• Word Lists home
• My Word Lists
• Recent additions
• Resources home
• Text Checker

Definition of website noun from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

• For current prices please visit our website .
• The company has recently launched a new website .
• She sent me links to several useful websites.
• the festival's official website
• on a website I found this information on their website.
• The video will be posted on our website later today.
• receive/​get/​open an email
• write/​send/​answer/​forward/​delete an email
• check/​read/​access your email
• block/​filter (out) junk/​spam/​unsolicited email
• exchange email addresses
• open/​check your inbox
• junk mail fills/​floods/​clogs your inbox
• have/​set up an email account
• open/​send/​contain an attachment
• sign up for/​receive email alerts
• use/​access/​log onto the internet/​the Web
• go online/​on the internet
• have a high-speed/​broadband/​wireless (internet) connection
• access/​connect to/​locate the server
• use/​open/​close/​launch a/​your web browser
• browse/​surf/​search/​scour the internet/​the Web
• send/​contain/​spread/​detect a(n) (computer/​email) virus
• update your anti-virus software
• install/​use/​configure a firewall
• accept/​enable/​block/​delete cookies
• visit/​check a website/​an internet site/​somebody’s blog
• create/​design/​launch a website/​social networking site
• start/​write/​post/​read a blog
• update your blog/​a website
• be in/​meet somebody in/​go into/​enter an internet chat room
• download/​upload music/​software/​a song/​a podcast/​a file/​a copy of something
• share information/​data/​files
• post a comment/​message on a(n) website/​online message board/​web forum/​internet chat room
• stream video/​audio/​music/​content over the internet
• join/​participate in/​visit/​provide a(n) (web-based/​web/​online/​internet/​discussion) forum
• generate/​increase/​monitor internet traffic
• landing page
• social media
• City College's official website
• I was searching this history website for something about Alexander the Great.
• There were so many visitors to the website that it went down.
• We show you how to make your own website in ten simple steps.
• You can find details of all our products on our website.
• a website devoted to Rufus Wainwright
• the official website of Liverpool FC
• favourite/​favorite
• contain something
• offer something
• provide something
• on a/​the website
• a link to a website

Want to learn more?

Find out which words work together and produce more natural-sounding English with the Oxford Collocations Dictionary app. Try it for free as part of the Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary app.