A static site is a set of pre-built HTML, CSS and JavaScript files served from a network of servers close to visitors. Several providers offer free tiers. They differ mainly in limits, terms and extra features rather than in the basic idea.
The Main Types, in General Terms
Static hosting on an edge/CDN network
How it generally works: Upload or push files; the provider serves them from many locations worldwide.
Questions to consider:
- What are the bandwidth and request limits on the free tier?
- Is commercial use allowed on the free plan?
Git-connected hosting
How it generally works: Each push to a code repository rebuilds and deploys the site automatically.
Questions to consider:
- How many build minutes or deploys are included?
- Can you deploy from your own machine if needed?
Framework-oriented platforms with serverless functions
How it generally works: Add server-side functions to a mostly static site.
Questions to consider:
- What happens to costs if traffic spikes?
- How hard is it to move away later?
Traditional shared hosting
How it generally works: A paid server account, often with a control panel and email.
Questions to consider:
- Do you need email or a database, or just pages?
Criteria and Questions to Ask
| Criterion | Why it matters | Question to ask |
|---|---|---|
| Limits | Free tiers have caps. | What are the bandwidth, build and file-count limits? |
| Commercial terms | Some free plans restrict commercial use. | Can I sell products or run ads on the free plan? |
| Domains & HTTPS | Trust and branding. | Are custom domains and HTTPS certificates included? |
| Privacy & logs | Hosts process visitor data. | What visitor data does the host log, and do I need a privacy notice? |
| Portability | Avoid lock-in. | Can I export and move my site easily? |
A Simple Checklist
- Read the free plan's acceptable-use and commercial-use terms.
- Set up a custom domain with HTTPS.
- Publish a privacy notice that mentions your host and any scripts you load.
- Keep a local copy of your site files.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is free hosting really free?
Usually up to published limits. Check what happens when you exceed them (throttling, suspension or charges).
Do I need a privacy notice for a simple static site?
If you serve visitors in places like the UK, EU or California, it is good practice and often legally required to explain what data your host and any third-party scripts collect.
- Each host's terms of service and plan limits page
- ico.org.uk guidance for small websites (UK)
