How do I Build a Website for Beginners?
In today's connected world, it is easier than ever to advertise and promote a small business. Thanks to the creation of the World Wide Web, it is now possible for even the smallest operation to reach millions of people. The burgeoning writer, artist or video producer can also reach a global audience, while those with something to sell can reach a worldwide audience of potential buyers. The tool that creates these possibilities is a website. And even a beginner can build one in as little as an hour.
Instructions
Difficulty:
Step 1
Register a domain by visiting one of the certified domain registrars that offer them for sale. Choose a name for your website, then log onto one of the domain registrars and check the availability of that name. If it is not available, the registrar will suggest alternatives. Then you will be given the opportunity to register that name. As of 2010, registering most domain names costs anywhere from five dollars to twenty dollars in U.S. funds.
Step 2
Choose a hosting plan for your web site. Do your homework here to ensure that you will be getting the features that you want. For example, some website hosting is available for free but may place advertisements on your site. Paid hosting offers the greatest flexibility, but typically costs a minimum of $5 U.S. dollars per month or more.
Step 3
Choose a web design software package. Although those who are familiar with computer-building code (commonly known by its initials, HTML) can design a website template from scratch, there are plenty of pre-made designs and easy-to-use programs available on the Web that allow even a beginner to design a website with a minimum of fuss. With a WYSIWYG- What You See Is What You Get- editor, you don't even have to know HTML to design a website.
Step 4
Add content to your website. If you are using a WYSIWYG editor, the package will typically offer icons that allow you to easily enter text, add images and sound files, create links and even upload videos to your new website. Even with a simple editor, all that is usually necessary is copying and pasting text and HTML code snippets from your computer or elsewhere. If you just want to add text, you can simply type your text into the appropriate section of your editor.
References
Tips & Warnings
- Don't dismiss blogging sites. Some of them offer free hosting and software with a simple-to-use editor for posting content. They are a good way to get started with your first website.
Article Written By Tracy Underwood
Since 2008 Tracy Underwood has been fulfilling a lifelong dream of writing professionally. He has written articles for Possumliving.com and Woodsloafing.com online, and in print for "Backwoodsman Magazine." Underwood holds an Amateur Extra license from the FCC. He received an Electronic Technician certificate from the U.S. Navy BE/E school, NTC Great Lakes.