Static web hosting in AWS is a way to publish a website made of fixed files, such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, images, and videos. These files are sent directly to visitors without using a traditional web server or database.
A static website can include a portfolio, landing page, company information site, event page, or simple blog. However, it cannot run server-based systems such as PHP or WordPress by itself. It can still use JavaScript and connect with outside services to provide forms or other useful features.
How Does AWS Static Website Hosting Work?
Amazon S3 is commonly used for AWS static website hosting. S3 stands for Simple Storage Service. It stores your website files inside a container called a bucket.
To publish a website, you create an S3 bucket, turn on static website hosting, upload your files, and select an index page such as index.html. You can also add an error page that appears when visitors open a missing link.
AWS also recommends AWS Amplify Hosting for static website content. Amplify can securely deliver your website through a global content delivery network and supports HTTPS. An S3 website endpoint alone does not support HTTPS.
What Are the Benefits?
One benefit of static website hosting is speed. Since pages are already created, they can load quickly. Static sites also require less server management and can handle growing traffic.
The cost is often low because Amazon S3 follows pay-as-you-go pricing. You mainly pay for file storage, requests, and data transfer, with no minimum charge.
Static hosting is best for websites that do not need user accounts, a database, or frequently changing server-generated pages. It offers a simple, reliable, and affordable way to host basic websites on AWS.