Static websites are a strong fit for shared hosting. They are fast, simple to move, and do not need a database or application runtime. The main thing is uploading the correct files and checking how the site handles URLs.
Upload the Build Output, Not the Source Project
If your site was built with Astro, Hugo, Vite, React, Vue, or another static generator, the hosting account usually needs the finished output folder. That might be called dist, build, public, or something similar.
Do not upload the whole development project unless the generated files are already in the correct web root. Source files such as package.json, node_modules, theme source, or draft content are not normally required on shared hosting.
Make Sure the Index File Is in the Web Root
The first file the server looks for is usually index.html. If visitors see a 404 or an unexpected folder listing, check whether the site files were uploaded one folder too deep.
Check Nested Routes
Plain static sites usually have real files for each page, such as /about/index.html. Single page applications are different. They may need a rewrite so every front-end route loads index.html.
If a page works when clicked from the menu but fails after a refresh, check the routing mode and add the correct rewrite rules.
HTTPS and Mixed Content
After DNS points to the hosting account, enable SSL and force HTTPS. Then check the browser console for missing files or HTTP assets. A static site can still show mixed content warnings if images, fonts, scripts, or API URLs are hard-coded to HTTP.
Forms Need a Handler
A static site cannot send email by itself. Contact forms need a third-party form service, a PHP handler, or an API endpoint. Test the full form submission path before publishing the site.
Static Site Launch Checklist
- Upload only the generated live files.
- Confirm
index.htmlis in the document root. - Test direct visits to nested pages.
- Enable SSL and force HTTPS.
- Check the browser console for missing CSS, JavaScript, fonts, and images.
- Test contact forms, downloads, redirects, and analytics.
For step-by-step upload notes, read Uploading a Static Website.
