Ask How Do Membership Sites Really Work?

[SuperAffiliateX]

I recently came across the term "membership site," but I have no idea what it really means or how it works. I assume it's a website where people have to sign up or pay to get access to something. But how does it all come together? Do you need special tools to build one? How do you make sure only members can see the content?

I'd love to hear from those who have experience. Can someone explain how a membership site actually works?