Website Basics
-
David
-
February 16th, 2012
I assume that the reason that you're here is because you're wanting to know how to make a website. Well, you've come to the right place because I have nearly 300 pages of information on how to make a website.
I've tried to break the layout of this website down into categories so if there's something that you're not interested in or you don't need the information at this time you can just skip it. With that said I welcome you to come back when you need further information on a new topic because I'm sure that I've included it.
Making A Free Website
Before we get started I'd like to address free websites. If you're looking to make a free website I just want to let you know that there are going to be limits to what you can do. I realize that you're probably on a budget making your first website but these days it's extremely affordable to make a website. Please visit make a free website for more information.
What Is Your Website Going To Be About?
This would probably be the first step when it comes to how to make a website. The topic or type of website that you'd like to build will dictate a lot about what tools you'll need. I've covered the types of websites to give you an idea of what to consider before getting started.
Register A Domain Name
Once you've decided what you plan on doing with your website you'll need to register a domain name. A domain name is the address where your website appears, for demonstration purposes you're currently viewing my domain name of HowTo.WebsiteSpot.com.
I've covered domain name registration in depth to inform you of certain things to expect from registering a domain name. Read more on how to register a domain name.
Website Design
Once you've secured your domain name I would recommend working on web design. Many sites would tell you to select a web hosting company but if it takes you a few weeks to get a website designed you just paid for something that you didn't need.
I cover web design tips in depth and you'll find that I've included information on easy web design software along with free website making tools to keep your website affordable. This includes free web building software to free professional website templates.
Read more on web design tips.
Choosing A Web Hosting Provider
Web hosting is the space on a web server that allows you to upload your files that make up your website. This server is connected to the internet so people can visit your web page.
Although there are free web hosting providers out there I cover the negative aspects of them along with features that you should expect from your web hosting company.
Read more on web hosting solutions.
FTP - File Transfer Protocol
Once you've designed your website and selected a web hosting plan you'll need to copy the files that make up your website to the server where you purchased web hosting. This is done with FTP software. You'll find that most FTP software is free and very easy to use.
Read more on file transfer protocol.
Marketing Your Website
The last part of how to make a website is marketing your website. There are tons of alternatives available and I cover them in depth to try to get you more website traffic.
The other part of this is search engine optimization. Search engine optimization is practice of optimizing your website for certain keywords that relate to your website with the intention of receiving a good listing on the top of search engines.
This is an area of making a website that will require a bit more knowledge because search engines are constantly changing and most markets are extremely competitive.
Read more on search engine optimization.
Webmaster Forum
You'll find that in most of the topics that I cover I touch on the most important topics and give brief explanations with the hope that you don't become bored with the content. If you have additional questions be sure to visit our webmaster forum.