5 steps to get your own website

In today's market, most small businesses know they need a website. They WANT to get online, but don't have a clear idea of what's involved. There is so much information about it on the Internet that it's hard to get down to the nuts and bolts. What do you really need to get online?

This overview lists the basics for the non-technically inclined. Yes, you. Say it loud: "I'M A NEWBIE AND PROUD!" Each part will require some research to choose the specs and price to suit your needs, but just take it one step at a time.

1. You need a computer that is capable of connecting to the Internet
If you want to read some simple blogs and send and receive text-only email, then a computer with a 56k modem will get you where you're going - eventually. It might be fun for about 15 minutes. Your first visit to YouTube will be a stark disappointment. If you want to take advantage of all that the Internet has to offer, get a computer with an ethernet card/port so that you can hook up to broadband (DSL or cable) Internet access. And no, not just to watch funny videos or listen to music. It's not much fun to publish a full website over a slow 56k dial-up connection, or email large attachments that take all night to send. Your computer also needs to have software to access the Internet (a browser), which usually comes pre-installed. The latest versions of popular browsers are available for download online.

2. You need to access the Internet through an Internet Service Provider (ISP)
Now that you have your own computer where you can build a website and access the Internet, there's certainly no need to spend your time surfing at the local public library, computer lab or Internet cafe. And what are you going to do in the wee after-hours when you finish your website changes or have a sudden urge to check your email? You need to get Internet access at home or at your office. The ISP simply provides access to the Internet. You need this if you're going to build and maintain a website, send and receive email and surf.

3. You need to register a Domain Name (DNS: Domain Name System)
The website you're about to create needs an address on the Internet. Your very own dot com. The address is called a URL (Uniform Resource Locator). Your URL can be any name that isn't already taken. Check through a domain search service to find out if your favorite name is available.

4. You need to post your website via a web host
A web host provides space on their server for you to make your website available on the Internet. This is where your actual website files are stored. (Of course, you have another full version on your hard drive, a back-up of that on an external drive and an archived version on CD - you can never be too safe). Web hosting services range from offering space and email addresses, to full eCommerce packages.

5. You need to design a website
No small matter here. You can hire someone to build a site for you, or try your hand with a web design package that contains step-by-step instructions for everything from creating content to uploading your first website to your web host.

Is that it? Well, it's the 10,000ft view. Hopefully it brings enough clarity to make a confusing process a little easier to follow.

If you're "new" and this article helped you, I invite you to click the link below to post a comment. This is my first blog, so I don't mind if it's your first blog comment. We can all learn something new today.