title: What do I need if I need a server for my app
body: <p>I've never hosted any website on server. I've mostly worked with localhost hence I am not sure what to expect here.</p>
  
  <p>I am trying to work with an android app. Now, this app is not going to be just work on a device without interacting with the outer world. i.e. there will be feature where you can add contacts from your phonebook and then do stuff with them. Basically, if I were to take example, let's say you want to build a simple messaging app.</p>
  
  <p>Now, surely I need to have a server for this (to store the user information, and his activities). Also, I need to write some script on the backend(server) wherein if some user sends a message to another one, then server takes that message and passes on to the intended recepient etc.</p>
  
  <p>Now how exactly do I go about developing something of this sort? Shall I get some server, and what exactly does 'getting a server' entail.</p>
  
  <p>Do I also need a domain name, like you do if you are hosting your website? Shall I first get a server and then start with the development, because I am not sure how to develop/test such app using localhost.</p>
  
  <p>Any reference to any links/resources will be extremely helpful.</p>