Table Of Contents
Introduction
Choosing the right combination of tools to build and host a website can be overwhelming. With so many platforms available, users often wonder whether their choices are compatible. One such question is whether Hostinger, a widely known web hosting service, works well with Webflow, a website design and development tool favored by designers and non-coders alike.
Let’s say you’ve crafted a beautiful site on Webflow – with custom animations, responsive layouts, and interactive elements. Now comes the important part: getting it live. If you’re considering Hostinger for hosting due to its affordability or ease of use, the question is clear: can you export your Webflow site and host it on Hostinger without unnecessary hurdles?
This article breaks down the technical compatibility between Hostinger and Webflow, what to expect when pairing them, and how you can manage a professional-looking site with minimal hassle. Whether you’re a freelancer building client websites or a business owner setting up your brand online, understanding this integration can save time and avoid headaches.
Understanding Webflow and Hostinger
What is Webflow?
Webflow is a web design platform that allows users to build websites visually. It provides the flexibility of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript without writing code. You can host your site directly on Webflow, but it also allows exporting the static files (HTML, CSS, JS, images) to be hosted elsewhere.
What is Hostinger?
Hostinger is a budget-friendly hosting provider that offers shared hosting, cloud hosting, VPS hosting, and domain registration. Known for its easy-to-use interface and affordability, Hostinger is a popular choice among beginners and small businesses.
The main question, then, becomes: can the static files from Webflow be effectively hosted on Hostinger?
Compatibility: Does Webflow Work with Hostinger?
Yes, it does. Webflow allows users to export their site’s code, which can then be uploaded to any hosting service that supports static websites – Hostinger included. However, there are important considerations to keep in mind:
- CMS and Dynamic Features: Exported Webflow files are static. That means any CMS collections or dynamic content created in Webflow won’t function after export. If your Webflow site uses CMS features, you must find an alternative method to manage those functions post-export.
- Hosting Plan: Ensure your Hostinger plan supports custom file uploads. Any of Hostinger’s shared or cloud hosting plans will do the job.
- DNS Settings: You may need to update your domain’s DNS settings to point it to Hostinger if it was registered elsewhere.
Step-by-Step: Hosting a Webflow Site on Hostinger
Here’s how to move your Webflow project to Hostinger in five straightforward steps:
Step 1: Export Your Webflow Site
- Open your Webflow project.
- Click the “Export Code” icon (box with arrow) in the Designer.
- Download the zip file containing your HTML, CSS, JS, and assets.
Step 2: Log in to Hostinger
- Go to your Hostinger dashboard.
- Choose the website or domain you want to use.
Step 3: Upload the Files
- Access the File Manager from your dashboard.
- Navigate to the public_html directory.
- Upload your Webflow zip file.
- Extract the files into the folder.
Step 4: Update DNS (if needed)
If your domain is hosted elsewhere, you’ll need to update its DNS settings to point to Hostinger’s servers. This step is crucial for making your website visible online.
Step 5: Test Your Website
Once everything is uploaded and DNS settings are configured, open your browser and visit your domain. The site should load just as it did in Webflow’s preview.
Pros and Cons of Using Hostinger with Webflow
Benefits
- Cost Efficiency: Webflow’s hosting plans can be costly for some users. Exporting to Hostinger is more budget-friendly.
- More Control: You have complete control over files, server settings, and customizations.
- Scalability: Hostinger offers various plans you can scale up as needed.
Limitations
- Loss of CMS Features: Exported sites are static. No CMS functionality unless you rebuild it with a third-party tool or manually.
- Manual Updates: Changes to the site require re-exporting and re-uploading.
- Limited Interactivity: Features like form handling may require additional configuration or third-party integration.
Workarounds for Missing Webflow Features
If you’re missing dynamic functionality after exporting from Webflow, here are a few solutions:
Forms
Use a service like Formspree or Basin to handle form submissions. These platforms allow you to process form data without server-side scripting.
CMS Alternatives
If you need dynamic content, consider integrating:
- Firebase
- Airtable with custom scripts
- Third-party JavaScript-based CMS systems like Netlify CMS
These options require more technical know-how but can help replicate Webflow CMS features.
SEO and Analytics
Since Hostinger doesn’t interfere with your code, you can include SEO tags, Google Analytics scripts, and other tracking tools manually within your HTML files.
Real-Life Scenario: Freelancers and Small Business Owners
Imagine you’re a freelance web designer who uses Webflow to create client sites. Your clients love the designs but balk at Webflow’s hosting fees. Instead of pushing them toward Webflow hosting, you offer a lower-cost alternative by exporting the site and hosting it on Hostinger. This method gives clients a live site without ongoing design platform costs.
Or consider a small business with a basic informational site – a homepage, about page, services, and contact form. There’s no dynamic content needed. The site is built in Webflow for convenience and aesthetic quality but hosted on Hostinger to save costs. It’s a win-win.
Conclusion
While Webflow and Hostinger are built with different purposes in mind, they can work together effectively. Webflow shines in design and layout, while Hostinger is strong in affordability and hosting flexibility. By exporting static files from Webflow and uploading them to Hostinger, users can enjoy a great design experience with budget-friendly hosting.
That said, this setup isn’t for everyone. If your site relies heavily on CMS, interactivity, or needs regular updates, Webflow’s native hosting may be more suitable. But for portfolios, landing pages, or small business sites with mostly static content, the Webflow-Hostinger combination is both practical and cost-effective.
The key is understanding your needs and matching the right tools for the job. With a little technical effort, the result can be a site that looks great, functions well, and doesn’t break the bank.
FAQs
What is the best way to host a Webflow site on Hostinger?
Answer: Export your Webflow project’s HTML, CSS, and JS files, then upload them to Hostinger’s public_html folder using the File Manager. Update DNS settings if needed to connect your domain.
Can you use Webflow CMS features after exporting to Hostinger?
Answer: No, Webflow CMS features do not work after export. The site becomes static, and dynamic content must be recreated using other tools like Firebase, Airtable, or Netlify CMS.
How do I export a site from Webflow?
Answer: Click the export icon in the Webflow Designer, then download the zipped folder containing your site’s HTML, CSS, JS, and assets. This file is ready for upload to any standard hosting platform.
Does Hostinger support static website hosting?
Answer: Yes, Hostinger supports static website hosting. You can upload HTML, CSS, and JS files through the File Manager or FTP, making it compatible with exported Webflow sites.
Do I need coding knowledge to host a Webflow site on Hostinger?
Answer: Minimal coding knowledge is needed. You only need to upload files, extract them, and possibly configure DNS settings. No coding is required for basic static sites.
What happens to forms on an exported Webflow site?
Answer: Forms won’t work natively after export. Use third-party services like Formspree or Basin to collect submissions. Add their script to your form HTML for integration.
Is Hostinger cheaper than Webflow hosting?
Answer: Yes, Hostinger generally offers lower monthly costs compared to Webflow’s hosting plans, making it a more affordable option for hosting static websites.
Can I update my Webflow site hosted on Hostinger?
Answer: Yes, but updates require re-exporting the site from Webflow and re-uploading the new files to Hostinger’s File Manager, replacing the previous version.
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