Yes, it absolutely can.
You can ask AI to generate HTML, CSS, even a full layout. In minutes, you’ll have code that looks like a website.
But then what?
Where does that code live?
Do you have hosting?
Do you know how to upload files?
What about DNS?
SSL certificate?
Backups?
Email routing?
AI can generate the files. It can’t deploy them, and you have to know how to ask the right questions to get there.
It doesn’t log into your domain registrar. It doesn’t configure your nameservers. It doesn’t install an SSL certificate so your site doesn’t show a “Not Secure” warning. It doesn’t set up automatic backups in case something breaks.
Even if you upload the files, you still have to:
- Point your domain to the right server
- Secure the site with HTTPS
- Make sure forms actually send emails
- Optimize images
- Ensure it works on mobile
- Confirm it’s accessible
- Test loading speed
- Set up analytics
AI can help you write code, but it doesn’t manage infrastructure, and infrastructure is what makes a website real.
This is where the difference shows up between “I have files” and “I have a functioning website.”
None of this means you shouldn’t use AI. It’s a powerful drafting tool. It can speed up ideas and remove friction.
But a website isn’t just code.
It’s hosting.
It’s security.
It’s configuration.
It’s maintenance.
AI can generate the blueprint. Someone still has to build and maintain the house.
