A virtual host allows for the replacement of a long web address with one that is shorter and more descriptive. This helps users to remember web addresses more easily.

Any administrative unit, academic department, or university service with the exception of individual student organizations may request virtual hosts on servers maintained by the Information Technology Services (ITS). The exception is due to the large number of student organizations and their non-permanent status.

A virtual host will be created so long as the name is not in conflict with one that already exists at the university. Names are approved and assigned on a first-requested, first-assigned basis and should reflect an appropriate name. A virtual hostname can be denied at the discretion of the Mason Web Team.

All virtual hostnames will be in the form of http://www.yourname.gmu.edu or http://yourname.gmu.edu. The yourname part of the address can be specified by the unit or department.

Web addresses that end in .com or .net will not be hosted by ITS servers. A domain of .org can apply to be hosted, but the organization related to the .org site must purchase the rights to that name from a domain name registration company. At the discretion of the Mason Web Team, requests for hosting .org domains on ITS servers may be denied.

Apply for a Virtual Host

To request a virtual host, submit a Virtual Host Request on the Web Hosting service page. If the request is approved, the webmaster will notify the requestor when the virtual host is operational.

Note: No more than three virtual hosts per group, association, office, or department will be permitted.