Top Tier Choices: The 10 Best Linux Web Hosting Providers of 2023

In the rapidly evolving digital landscape of 2023, the significance of selecting an optimal Linux web hosting provider has never been more pronounced. Every business, from fledgling startups to established enterprises, hinges on a robust, secure, and efficient online presence.

As we navigate an era where the virtual and physical worlds intertwine seamlessly, the choice of a hosting provider becomes the bedrock of a website’s performance, security, and scalability.

We curated a list of the 10 Best Linux Web Hosting Providers of 2023 to streamline your decision-making process. Each provider encapsulates a blend of innovation, reliability, and user-centric design, ensuring your website not only thrives but excels. As we unfold the distinctive features, benefits, and unique offerings of each provider, we empower you to make an informed choice tailored to your specific needs, objectives, and aspirations.

Understanding Linux Web Hosting

Before we dive into our list of esteemed providers, let's take a moment to unfold the essentials of Linux web hosting, laying a foundation for those less acquainted with the term and its pivotal role in the digital ecosystem.

Linux web hosting refers to a hosting environment where the server is based on the Linux operating system, one of the most popular and reliable open-source platforms globally. Known for its stability, security, and flexibility, Linux has become the preferred choice for many webmasters, developers, and businesses. This powerful operating system offers an optimal environment for a variety of websites, including content management systems like WordPress, Joomla, and Drupal, as well as e-commerce platforms and custom-built sites.

In the realm of Linux hosting, users gain access to a plethora of tools and features designed to enhance website performance, security, and functionality. The open-source nature of Linux means that it is continually enhanced and updated by a global community of developers. This collective contribution ensures that the operating system is not only robust but also equipped with the latest innovations and security protocols to navigate the ever-evolving digital landscape.

One notable attribute of Linux web hosting is its compatibility with PHP, Perl, Python, and other open-source programming languages. This compatibility ensures that websites hosted on Linux servers are fast, responsive, and capable of handling diverse functions and features. Furthermore, Linux hosting often comes with cPanel, a popular control panel that simplifies website management, offering users an intuitive interface to control various aspects of their site.

As we proceed to explore the top Linux web hosting providers of 2023, each embodying a unique blend of features, performance, and reliability, it’s essential to consider how the strengths of Linux can align with your specific needs, objectives, and technical proficiency. The subsequent sections will offer insights, not just into the providers, but also into how they leverage Linux's attributes to offer solutions that stand apart in a crowded marketplace.

1. BlueHost

Overview

BlueHost reigns supreme for those venturing into the world of web hosting for the first time, as well as for seasoned professionals. With a reputation for offering one of the most user-friendly experiences, BlueHost highlights its service with features aimed at simplifying and enhancing the user journey.

Key Features

• Staging Area: A sandbox environment allowing users to test changes before going live, ensuring optimal website performance and user experience.
• User-Friendly Interface: A native management panel complemented by cPanel integration for ease of use and advanced functionality.
• Performance Metrics: An impressive uptime of 99.99% and an average response time of 361ms, surpassing industry standards.

Hosting Plans

BlueHost caters to a diverse audience with four distinct plans, each designed to accommodate different needs and budget constraints:

Standard:

• Price: $90/mo*; 50% savings over 3 years, auto-renews at regular rate
• Includes: 4 core / 8 thread, Intel Xeon-D CPU, 8 GB RAM, 1TB HDD Storage, Unmetered Bandwidth, Linux, CPanel included with Root Access

Enhanced:

• Price: $120/mo*; 54% savings over 3 years, auto-renews at regular rate
• Includes: 8 core / 16 thread, Intel Xeon-D CPU, 16 GB RAM, 2 TB HDD Storage, Unmetered Bandwidth, Linux, CPanel included with Root Access

Premium: 

• Price: $140/mo*; 52% savings over 3 years, auto-renews at regular rate
• Includes: 8 core / 16 thread, Intel Xeon-D CPU, 30 GB RAM, 2 TB HDD Storage, Unmetered Bandwidth, Linux, CPanel included with Root Access

*Prices are promotional and subject to change; always refer to the official website for current pricing and offerings.

Performance and Reliability

In the world of web hosting, BlueHost stands as a pillar of reliability. Despite not having an official uptime guarantee, their 99.99% uptime is commendable. The response time, clocking in at an average of 361ms, underscores the provider’s commitment to speed and efficiency

Pros and Cons

Final Verdict

BlueHost marries simplicity with efficiency, offering an intuitive user experience without compromising on performance. While it is particularly favored by beginners, the range of advanced features and options makes it a viable choice for professionals as well.

2. SiteGround

Overview

SiteGround, with its modern technology stack and a commitment to excellence, emerges as a robust platform for diverse hosting needs. Known for its speed, security, and innovative features, SiteGround caters to both individual bloggers and large enterprises, offering tailored solutions to enhance every aspect of web hosting.

Key Features

• Speedy Technology: SiteGround employs state-of-the-art technology to ensure websites load at lightning speeds, enhancing user experience and SEO.
• Top-Notch Security: With proactive security protocols, SiteGround ensures websites are shielded from threats, offering peace of mind to website owners.
• Outstanding Customer Support: Boasting a team of experts available 24/7, SiteGround promises instant support, assuring every query is addressed promptly.

Hosting Plans

SiteGround’s versatile hosting plans are crafted to serve a varied audience, ensuring everyone finds the perfect fit:

StartUp: 

• Price: $2.99/mo* (83% off, usually $17.99/mo)
• Includes: 1 Website, 10 GB Web Space, ~10,000 Monthly Visits, Daily Backups, Free SSL, CDN, Email

GrowBig: 

• Price: $4.99/mo* (83% off, usually $29.99/mo)
• Includes: Unlimited Websites, 20 GB Web Space, ~100,000 Monthly Visits, On-demand Backups, Faster PHP

GoGeek:         

• Price: $7.99/mo* (82% off, usually $44.99/mo)
• Includes: 40 GB Web Space, ~400,000 Monthly Visits, Priority Support, Staging + Git

*Prices are promotional and subject to change; always refer to the official website for current pricing and offerings.

Performance and Reliability

SiteGround is renowned for its reliable service, backed by a 99.9% uptime guarantee. With an average response time of under 400ms, SiteGround promises not just availability, but speed, ensuring websites are always accessible and fast.

Pros and Cons

Final Verdict

SiteGround stands out as a fusion of innovation, speed, and security. With plans offering a suite of features tailored to various needs, it’s a favorite among individuals looking for reliability and performance. The provider's commitment to technology advancements and customer support places it in a league of its own in the hosting arena.

3. A2 Hosting

Overview

A2 Hosting stakes its claim in the hosting landscape as a provider synonymous with speed and reliability. Tailored for individuals and businesses seeking streamlined performance and enhanced security, A2 Hosting offers an amalgamation of features designed to optimize and secure websites effectively.

Key Features

• Turbo Servers: A2 Hosting's turbo servers promise up to 20X faster page loads, a feature integral for websites aiming for optimal user engagement and SEO rankings.
• Enhanced Security: With a suite of security features, including free HackScan, A2 Hosting ensures that websites are safeguarded against various online threats.
• Developer-Friendly Tools: A paradise for developers, offering a plethora of tools and features that cater to specific development needs, ensuring flexibility and customization.

Hosting Plans

A2 Hosting unveils a set of plans meticulously crafted to cater to a myriad of hosting needs:

Shared Hosting

• Price: $2.99/mo* (75% off with a 12-month term)
• Includes: Basic hosting for those getting started, cost-effective solution

Wordpress Hosting (Most Popular)

• Price: $11.99/mo* (50% off with a 36-month term)
• Includes: Enhanced WordPress tools for a professional, quick site setup

VPS Hosting

• Price: $39.99/mo* (48% off with a 36-month term)
• Includes: Control and scalability, ideal for growing websites

Dedicated Hosting

• Price: $155.99/mo* (37% off with a 24-month term)
• Includes: Optimal power and performance for demanding websites

*Prices are promotional and subject to change; always refer to the official website for current pricing and offerings.

Performance and Reliability

A2 Hosting is notable for its swift performance and robust reliability. With a commitment to 99.9% uptime, the provider ensures that websites remain accessible round the clock. The implementation of turbo servers guarantees enhanced speed, ensuring websites deliver content swiftly and efficiently.

Pros and Cons

Final Verdict

A2 Hosting is a haven for those in pursuit of speed and enhanced performance. Its focus on delivering swift page loads without compromising on security makes it a preferred choice for businesses and individuals alike. With a variety of plans and an emphasis on customer control and flexibility, A2 Hosting is an excellent option for hosting that scales with growth.

4. HostGator

Overview

HostGator shines in the crowded space of web hosting providers with its robust features, reliable uptime, and versatile plans fit for all, from beginners to established businesses. Offering an intuitive interface coupled with strong customer support, HostGator is designed for those seeking a blend of performance and affordability.

Key Features

• One-Click Installs: HostGator makes site building accessible for beginners, offering one-click installations for popular content management systems like WordPress.
• Uptime Guarantee: A 99.9% uptime guarantee underscores the provider's commitment to ensuring websites are always accessible.
• Free Website Transfer: For those looking to migrate, HostGator promises a hassle-free transfer process, ensuring a

Hosting Plans

HostGator’s array of plans are crafted to serve the diverse needs of the online community:

Hatchling Plan:

• Price: $3.75/mo*
• Includes: Single website, 10GB SSD Storage, unmetered bandwidth, one-click WordPress installs, email, chat support, first year domain free

Baby Plan: 

• Price: $4.50/mo*
• Includes: Up to 2 websites, 20GB SSD Storage, unmetered bandwidth, phone & chat support, $500 Google Ad spend match credit, $100 Microsoft Advertising credit, first year domain free

Business Plan: 

• Price: $6.25/mo*
• Includes: Up to 3 websites, 40GB SSD Storage, Cloudflare CDN, dedicated IP, Positive SSL upgrade, SEO tools, professional website migration services, unmetered bandwidth, $500 Google Ad spend match credit, $100 Microsoft Advertising credit, first year domain free

*Prices are promotional and subject to change; always refer to the official website for current pricing and offerings.

Performance and Reliability

HostGator stands tall with a commitment to optimal performance, backed by a 99.9% uptime guarantee. Coupled with the provider's robust infrastructure, users can expect consistent and reliable website performance, ensuring optimal user engagement and experience.

Pros and Cons

Final Verdict

HostGator embodies a harmonious blend of reliability, ease of use, and affordability. Its adaptability to cater to a diverse audience, from individual bloggers to large-scale businesses, underscores its versatility. With an impressive uptime guarantee and an array of features enhancing the user experience, HostGator positions itself as a viable choice for those seeking a dependable hosting partner.

5. InMotion Hosting

Overview

InMotion Hosting distinguishes itself with a focus on performance and reliability, backed by an unwavering commitment to customer service. This provider has carved a niche in delivering scalable hosting solutions imbued with features that cater to both newcomers and experienced webmasters.

Key Features

• Max Speed Zone Technology: Offers enhanced speed and performance, ensuring websites load quickly for optimized user engagement and SEO.
• Free Website Migration: InMotion takes the hassle out of the transition, offering seamless, worry-free website transfers.
• Secure Servers: With advanced security protocols, InMotion ensures that websites are safeguarded against various threats and vulnerabilities.

Hosting Plans

InMotion offers a rich array of hosting plans, ensuring that every user finds a tailored fit for their specific needs:

Core:

• Price: $2.99/mo* (68% off for 3 years)
• Includes: 2 websites, 100GB SSD, unlimited bandwidth, 2x speed and performance, 10 email addresses, free SSL, security suite, US data centers only

Launch:

• Price: $5.99/mo* (54% off for 3 years)
• Includes: 25 websites, unlimited NVMe SSD, 6x UltraStack speed, unlimited bandwidth and email addresses, free domain & SSL, choice of data center location (including US and EU)

Power:

• Price: $5.99/mo* (65% off for 3 years)
• Includes: Unlimited websites, NVMe SSD, 12x UltraStack speed, unlimited bandwidth and email addresses, advanced caching, free domain & SSL, live phone support, choice of data center location (including US and EU)

Pro Plan: 

• Price: $13.99/mo* (42% off for 3 years)
• Includes: All features of Power, 20x UltraStack speed, Pro Support SLA, dedicated IP, live phone support

*Prices are promotional and subject to change; always refer to the official website for current pricing and offerings.

Performance and Reliability

InMotion is steadfast in its commitment to performance, offering a 99.9% uptime guarantee. The incorporation of Max Speed Zone Technology ensures that websites aren’t just up and running, but are also delivering content at optimal speeds, ensuring a superior user experience.

Pros and Cons

Final Verdict

InMotion Hosting emerges as a blend of performance, security, and exemplary customer service. Its focus on speed, coupled with a variety of plans offering scalability, makes it a preferred choice for many. While the verification process can be a bit cumbersome for new users, the overall offerings and consistent performance make it a strong contender in the hosting space.

6. DreamHost

Overview

DreamHost stands out as a beacon of comprehensive hosting solutions, coupling affordability with a trove of features that cater to all—from novices launching their first website to businesses scaling to new heights. With an emphasis on performance, security, and unmatched support, DreamHost crafts a hosting environment where websites thrive.

Key Features

• Custom Control Panel: A user-friendly, intuitive control panel designed to simplify website management and optimization.
• Unlimited Traffic and Bandwidth: DreamHost offers the freedom of unlimited traffic, ensuring websites handle growth and traffic surges seamlessly.
• 97-Day Money-Back Guarantee: A testament to their confidence in providing top-tier service, offering one of the industry’s longest trial periods.

Hosting Plans

DreamHost’s hosting plans are as flexible as they are diverse, ensuring tailored solutions for varied needs:

Shared Starter: 

• Price: $4.95/mo* (monthly plan)
• Includes: 1 website, unlimited traffic, WordPress pre-installed, free automated WordPress migrations, WP website builder, fast SSD storage, free SSL certificate

DreamPress:

• Price: $19.95/mo* (monthly plan)
• Includes: 1 WordPress website, ~100k monthly visitors, unmetered bandwidth, 30GB SSD storage, pre-installed SSL certificate, unlimited email, 24/7 WordPress support, on-demand backups, 1-click restore, Jetpack FREE pre-installed, 1-click staging

VPS 1GB | Basic:

• Price: $15.00/mo* (monthly plan)
• Includes: Unlimited websites, unlimited traffic, unmetered bandwidth, 30 GB SSD storage, 1-click install WordPress, free SSL certificate, unlimited email, 24/7 support

*Prices are promotional and subject to change; always refer to the official website for current pricing and offerings.

Performance and Reliability

With a robust infrastructure, DreamHost assures a 99.95% uptime. The provider is committed to not just keeping websites online but ensuring they perform optimally. The blend of unlimited traffic and SSD storage ensures websites are fast and responsive, enhancing user engagement and SEO.

Pros and Cons

Final Verdict

DreamHost weaves affordability, performance, and an array of features into a hosting solution that resonates with a broad audience. While the absence of cPanel might be a switch for some, DreamHost’s custom control panel is designed for ease and efficiency. With an extensive money-back guarantee and a reputation for reliability, DreamHost confidently caters to a spectrum of hosting needs.

7. GreenGeeks

Overview

GreenGeeks marries eco-friendly hosting with robust performance, carving a unique space in the web hosting landscape. It combines a 300% renewable energy commitment with a suite of features ensuring speed, security, and reliability, making it a top choice for the environmentally conscious without compromising on website performance.

Key Features

• Eco-Friendly Hosting: A 300% green hosting commitment, making it one of the most environmentally responsible hosting options available.
• LiteSpeed Servers: Harnessing the power of LiteSpeed servers ensures optimal performance, swift load times, and enhanced user experience.
• Free Daily Backup: Security and data integrity are bolstered by daily backups, offering peace of mind and data recovery options.

Hosting Plans

GreenGeeks caters to a diverse range of needs, offering tailored plans designed for optimal performance and scalability:

Lite: 

• Price: $2.95/mo* (discounted from $11.95/mo)
• Includes: One website, standard performance, 50GB web space, unmetered transfer, 50 email accounts, free SSL certificate, free domain for 1st year, free nightly backup, managed WordPress, built-in caching

Pro: 

• Price: $4.95/mo* (discounted from $16.95/mo)
• Includes: Unlimited websites, better performance, unlimited web space, unmetered transfer, unlimited email accounts, on-demand backups, WordPress repair tool, managed WordPress, built-in caching

Premium: 

• Price: $8.95/mo* (discounted from $26.95/mo)
• Includes: Best performance, free dedicated IP, free AlphaSSL, object caching (Memcached & Redis), unlimited websites, web space, transfer, and email accounts, managed WordPress, built-in caching

*Prices are promotional and subject to change; always refer to the official website for current pricing and offerings.

Performance and Reliability

GreenGeeks promises a 99.9% uptime guarantee backed by a service level agreement (SLA). Utilizing LiteSpeed servers ensures that websites are not only consistently available but also load at blazing speeds, ensuring optimal user engagement and improved search engine rankings.

Pros and Cons

Final Verdict

GreenGeeks stands as an exemplar in blending ecological responsibility with top-tier hosting performance. For businesses and individuals keen on reducing their carbon footprint while not compromising on speed and reliability, GreenGeeks emerges as an unequivocal choice. The host’s commitment to performance, backed by LiteSpeed servers and an array of features, underscores its place as a premier, green web hosting solution.

8. Kinsta

Overview

Kinsta emerges as a force in the realm of managed WordPress hosting, characterized by its cutting-edge technology, stellar performance, and dedicated support. Aimed at everyone from individual bloggers to large corporations, Kinsta’s tailored solutions are built on the Google Cloud Platform, ensuring reliability and scalability.

Key Features

• Google Cloud Platform: Utilizing this world-class infrastructure ensures optimal website performance and security.
• Managed WordPress Hosting: A focus on WordPress ensures that users benefit from expert support, optimized performance, and enhanced security features.
• Free Site Migrations: Kinsta’s experts manage the migration process ensuring a smooth and hassle-free transition.

Hosting Plans

Kinsta’s offerings are diverse, featuring plans that cater to a broad audience and varied needs:

Applications:

• Price: Starting at $7/mo* or $0.0000026600/second
• Includes: 0.3 CPU, 0.3GB RAM, scalable bandwidth at $0.14/GB

Databases: 

• Price: Starting at $18/mo* or $0.0000068493/second
• Includes: 1GB storage, 0.25 CPU, 0.25GB RAM

WordPress Sites - Starter Plan: 

• Price: $35/mo* or $350/year (save $70+ with annual payment)
• Includes: 25,000 monthly visits, 10GB storage, free migrations

*Prices are promotional and subject to change; always refer to the official website for current pricing and offerings.

Performance and Reliability

Kinsta guarantees a 99.9% uptime, backed by constant monitoring and an expert support team. Being built on the Google Cloud Platform, it ensures global reach, redundancy, and optimal speed, rendering websites that are both reliable and fast.

Pros and Cons

Final Verdict

Kinsta exemplifies the pinnacle of managed WordPress hosting. Its utilization of the Google Cloud Platform ensures not just reliability and speed but a global reach. Though it comes at a premium, the value offered in terms of technology, support, and features makes Kinsta a go-to option for those who seek an uncompromising WordPress hosting experience.

9. Hostinger

Overview

Hostinger is a popular hosting option for WordPress sites and it provides plans that are specific for Linux environments. It also offers 24/7 support which makes it easy to get set up and running if you haven't connected a site before. With over 2 million sites hosted on this provider, Hostinger is a trusted option for launching your first website.

Key Features

• NVMe SSD Storage: The NVMe SSD storage and AMD EPYC processors give you enhanced performance and the KVM virtualization platform gives you more control over hardware resources. 
• One-Click Installation: Get started almost immediately after signing up with one-click installation. Just pick your Linux-based operation system for your virtual server and Hostinger will handle the rest for you. 
• Automatic Backups: Your data is always safe with automated weekly backups and you can take manual snapshots of your platform so you can revert any changes as needed. 

Hosting Plans

Hostinger offers plans that are as sophisticated as they are varied, catering to different scales and complexities of hosting needs:

KVM 1: 

• Price: $6/mo*; 57% savings over 2 years; renews at $8/month
• Includes: 1 vCPU Core, 4GB RAM, 50 GB NVMe Disk Space, 1 TB Bandwidth, Dedicated IP Address, Full Root Access, AI Assistant, Malware Scanner

KVM 2: 

• Price: $8/mo*; 58% savings over 2 years; renews at $11/month
• Includes: 2 vCPU Core, 8GB RAM, 100 GB NVMe Disk Space, 2 TB Bandwidth, Dedicated IP Address, Full Root Access, AI Assistant, Malware Scanner

KVM 4: 

• Price: Starting at $11/mo*; 63% savings over 2 years; renews at $23/month
• Includes: 4 vCPU Core, 16GB RAM, 200 GB NVMe Disk Space, 4 TB Bandwidth, Dedicated IP Address, Full Root Access, AI Assistant, Malware Scanner

KVM 8: 

• Price: Starting at $18/mo*; 64% savings over 2 years; renews at $47/month
• Includes: 8 vCPU Core, 32GB RAM, 400 GB NVMe Disk Space, 8 TB Bandwidth, Dedicated IP Address, Full Root Access, AI Assistant, Malware Scanner

*Prices are promotional and subject to change; always refer to the official website for current pricing and offerings.

Performance and Reliability

With architecture designed for speed and uptime, WP Engine promises a 99.95% uptime. It employs a proprietary caching technology and offers a global CDN, ensuring that websites deliver optimal performance and are highly responsive across the globe.

Pros and Cons

Final Verdict

WP Engine is for those who seek more than just hosting. It’s a comprehensive WordPress solution offering a blend of technology, support, and infrastructure that justifies its premium pricing. It’s particularly ideal for businesses and developers that demand superior performance, security, and a host of integrative tools to amplify their WordPress experience.

10. Liquid Web

Overview

Liquid Web distinguishes itself as a premium hosting provider, specializing in high-performance, managed services tailored for professionals, growing businesses, and enterprises. With an emphasis on stellar customer support, bespoke hosting solutions, and a suite of features designed for optimal performance, Liquid Web emerges as a go-to option for those seeking an enhanced hosting experience.

Key Features

• Fully Managed Hosting: Offering a hands-off hosting experience, where all technical aspects, including updates and security, are handled by Liquid Web’s expert team.
• Customizable Hosting Solutions: Tailored hosting configurations to meet specific business requirements, ensuring optimal performance and scalability.
• Dedicated Security Team: A round-the-clock security team dedicated to monitoring and mitigating potential threats, ensuring data integrity and website safety.

Hosting Plans

Liquid Web’s array of plans is as robust as it is diverse, ensuring a fit for varied professional hosting needs:

Essential:

• Price: $59/mo*
• Includes: 2 vCPU, 2 GB RAM, 40 GB SSD storage, 10 TB bandwidth, AlmaLinux or CentOS 7, InterWorx control panel

Advanced (Most Popular):

• Price: $99/mo*
• Includes: 4 vCPU, 4 GB RAM, 100 GB SSD storage, 10 TB bandwidth, AlmaLinux or CentOS 7, InterWorx control panel

Professional:

• Price: $139/mo*
• Includes: 8 vCPU, 8 GB RAM, 150 GB SSD storage, 10 TB bandwidth, AlmaLinux or CentOS 7, InterWorx control panel

Elite:

• Price: $169/mo*
• Includes: 12 vCPU, 12 GB RAM, 200 GB SSD storage, 10 TB bandwidth, AlmaLinux or CentOS 7, InterWorx control panel

*Prices are promotional and subject to change; always refer to the official website for current pricing and offerings.

Performance and Reliability

Liquid Web stands as a paragon of reliability with a 100% uptime guarantee, supported by a highly redundant infrastructure. The focus on premium hardware and technologies ensures websites hosted on Liquid Web are not just accessible, but also deliver peak performance consistently.

Pros and Cons

Final Verdict

Liquid Web is a sanctuary for professionals and businesses that crave a hosting experience marked by reliability, performance, and expert support. While its offerings come at a premium, the value delivered, especially for websites that cannot afford downtime or subpar performance, is unequivocal. It stands as a hallmark of quality in a world where hosting options are abundant but not always up to par.

Navigating Your Choices: Finding Your Ideal Linux Web Hosting Provider

Choosing the right Linux web hosting provider is an integral step in launching and maintaining a successful online presence. Each of the providers we’ve explored brings a unique blend of features, performance, and pricing to the table, tailored to cater to a diverse array of needs and preferences.

While each provider shines in its own right, your specific needs, budget, and technical expertise will play a pivotal role in determining the most suitable choice. Consider factors like uptime, customer support, security features, and scalability as key determinants in your decision-making process.

Remember, choosing a hosting provider is not a lifetime commitment. Most hosting companies offer money-back guarantees, and the flexibility to upgrade or downgrade your plans based on your evolving needs. Take your time to assess your requirements, explore the features, and make an informed decision that will serve as the foundation of your website’s success in the digital realm.