multisite

Multisite refers to a software deployment model in which a single installation runs multiple distinct sites. The sites share a common codebase and, in many cases, a common database, yet each site can maintain separate content, configurations, and administrators. Multisite arrangements are common in content management systems, web portals, and hosting environments, offering centralized management, uniform updates, and resource efficiency while preserving site-level autonomy.

In content management systems, the best-known example is WordPress Multisite. It enables a network of sites managed from one dashboard. Sites can be addressed via subdomains, subdirectories, or mapped domains. A network administrator controls themes, plugins, and users, while individual sites manage their own content and settings. Data is typically stored in a shared database with per-site tables or prefixes.

Other platforms support multisite configurations. Drupal offers a multi-site setup that shares a core codebase but can use separate databases and configurations per site. The concept also appears in enterprise hosting and SaaS as multitenancy or site clusters, where multiple customer sites run on a shared infrastructure with tenant isolation.

Key considerations include performance, security, and maintenance. Because updates, plugins, or themes can affect the entire network, governance and testing are important. Backup, monitoring, and staging practices should cover all sites. Domain management and URL structure (subdomains versus subdirectories) influence SEO and user experience.

Common use cases include universities or corporations that run many department or regional sites, hosting providers offering managed networks, and organizations seeking centralized control with decentralized content creation. The multisite approach offers efficiency but can add complexity and risk, making selective isolation appropriate for some deployments.