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Spotlight
PAGE: https://alison.com/course/introduction-to-multiple-domain-hosting-on-one-virtual-server
PROMISE: Learn to host multiple domains on one virtual server to cut hosting costs.
WHO: Small business owners or developers managing multiple sites on one budget server
WHYNOW: Monthly hosting fees add up quickly when each domain requires a separate subscription
DESC: Expand your knowledge of virtual machines and servers and learn how to configure Apache, MySQL, PHP and PhpMyAdmin on the DigitalOcean platform.
BEFORE: Paying for separate hosting accounts for each project or client domain
BEFORE: Struggling to configure DNS and Apache vhosts for multiple sites on one machine
BEFORE: Uncertain how to manage SSL certificates across different domains on a single server
AFTER: Consolidate all domains onto one digital ocean droplet to reduce total hosting fees
AFTER: Set up directory structures and virtual hosts to serve distinct sites from one IP
AFTER: Deploy free Let’s Encrypt SSL certificates for every domain managed on the server
GAIN: Ability to map multiple custom domains to a single virtual server IP address
GAIN: Skill in configuring Apache virtual hosts and DNS records for multi-domain hosting
GAIN: Knowledge of automating free SSL certificate issuance for all hosted domains
STEP: You need to test how DNS changes affect multiple sites on a single server. || Discuss the configuration of a DNS zone file, name server and virtual host files to multiple domains on one server || Point domain records to the server IP and verify resolution before deploying site content.
STEP: You need to serve different websites from one IP address without conflict. || Recall how to create the directory structure for hosting multiple sites on a single server || Organize document roots in separate folders and map Apache vhosts to each domain name.
STEP: You need secure HTTPS access for all subdomains or domains on that server. || Describe how to multiple domains on a single server with SSL certificates using Let’s Encrypt || Automate certificate issuance and renewal so all hosted sites use valid SSL without paid certs.
NOTFOR: Readers who only need a single domain and already have a working web host
NOTFOR: Users who are not comfortable with command line servers or digital ocean administration
FACT: Average duration: 4-5 Hours (Contains Video)
FACT: CPD-accredited certificate available
FACT: Advanced level
COVERS: Discuss how to create and attach floating IPs to DigitalOcean droplets
COVERS: Recall how to create the directory structure for hosting multiple sites on a single server
COVERS: Outline the installation process for MySQL and PHP
COVERS: Describe how to navigate the DigitalOcean admin panel
COVERS: Recall how to deploy Ubuntu 18.04 on a virtual server
COVERS: State the reasons for hosting multiple domains on one virtual server
COVERS: Identify the process for the configuration of a virtual host on our server for each domain
COVERS: Discuss the configuration of a DNS zone file, name server and virtual host files to multiple domains on one server
COVERS: Explain how to access and test server configurations through a web proxy
COVERS: Describe how to multiple domains on a single server with SSL certificates using Let’s Encrypt
COVERS: Analyze the management of the name server on our domain registrars admin panel
COVERS: Explain how to modify MySQL authentication methods
MODULE: Installations and Setup || Introduction to Course | Floating IPs | Installing Essential Services
MODULE: Web Server Configuration || Working with Virtual Host | Creating and Enabling Virtual Host File | Securing Domains with SSL
What you are probably seeing
You see a recurring charge on your card for hosting a site that mostly serves static text and images. Your hosting bill continues even when the site receives no new content.
You watch the monthly total add up while the server resources sit idle, creating a gap between the cost and the actual work the host does for you.
Why it happens
Most paid plans are designed for dynamic apps that need constant server processing and database access, not for simple pages.
The pricing model charges for the infrastructure and support bundle regardless of whether your static site actually uses those heavy features.
What changed recently
2026-10-07 · custom domain names
GitHub is now the default for that gap:
• Custom domains work with static sites
• Articles are markdown files and a push
• Drafts stay offline for privacy
• Replaces WordPress workflows
Source: autocomplete
Step by step
1. Verify your site is static and do not rely on server-side scripts or databases that GitHub Pages cannot execute.
2. Register a domain through your preferred registrar and note the nameserver records required for the migration.
3. Connect your domain to your GitHub repository by adding a custom CNAME record in your DNS settings.
4. Test the connection locally and ensure the browser loads the site over HTTPS before switching traffic away from the old host.
5. Cancel the hosting subscription after confirming the new domain resolves correctly and all assets load without errors.
Ways to go further
Start here: Beginner in Multiple Domain Hosting on One Virtual Server For when you need to set up multiple domains on a single server to test configurations. Open the free course on Alison ↗
Better fit: Beginner’s Guide to GitHub For when you are new to version control and need the basics before touching a repo. Open the free course on Alison ↗
Affiliate links: CHEAPUNO may earn a commission if you buy through them, at no extra cost to you.
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