A web host is integral to website management as it provides the necessary infrastructure for a website to be accessible on the internet. It includes services like storage for website files, and the bandwidth that handles user traffic. A web host manages server uptime, security, and domain registration, ensuring that websites run smoothly and are available to visitors. By hosting the website's files on their servers, web hosts enable users to access content through a browser, making them essential for anyone looking to have an online presence.