Recently my friend asked me how to start a web site. He thought you had to learn a lot of HTML and software packages. These days it’s a lot simpler. Here are the steps I outlined.

Option 1

Pick a domain

Some people buy domains from their host provider. I don’t recommend this since it usually creates problems if you ever want to switch your host. I recommend visiting Yahoo Domains, DirectNIC, or

Pick a Host

You have to get a host where you store your web site. If you are a novice not looking to do too much advanced work,  I like GooglePages or GoDaddy. For people looking to get their hands a little dirtier, I like DreamHost and MediaTemple.

Pick a CMS

People hardly build web sites from scratch anymore. While it helps to know PHP, HTML and such, people can rely more on framework that’s already built for them. Check out the article, Want to Build a Web Site? Choose an Open Source CMS.  I recommend Joomla for people looking for a site to advertise their business. I like Wordpress for blogging. Most host providers provide 1-click installs for the most common CMS packages.

Option 2

If you’re looking just to blog, there are many blogging networks you can join quickly and begin posting. This method costs nothing and you’ll get a subdomain at whatever site you choose (i.e. yourname.wordpress.com). A few networks I know of are WordPress, Blogger and Lockergnome.

Whichever option you choose, you will then begin the learning process. You will need to learn the system you chose and what works for you on your site. Good luck and happy blogging.