Here, I explain how to create a website. I also explain how to get your own domain name (eg, www.yourwebsitename.com), and how to host your website (make it available to the world).

Creating a website is much easier than you might think. By following these steps, you will be able to create your own website in no time at all!

The Website Creation Process

Now if you didn't click on the above link, you are probably curious to know what is involved in making a website. Creating a website basically involves the following 3 steps:

STEP 1 >>

Register a Domain Name

A domain name is the thing that looks like mysite.com. You register these on an annual basis.

Domain names can cost anywhere between $10 and $50 per year. I'll show you how to get one for $3.99 (below).

Your domain name represents the URL (or permanent web address) of your website. Therefore, when anyone types in "yourdomain.com" or "www.yourdomain.com", they will see your website.

You register your domain name through a domain name registrar or hosting provider. You simply check that your preferred domain name is available, then register it (online).

Domain names are registered on an annual basis, and you can usually register it many years in advance (or set 'auto-renew').

Prices can range from between $10 to $15 up to as much as $35 or even $40. Dynadot has some of the best prices on the web - and if you purchase hosting at the same time, the domain name is even cheaper ($3.99).

If you don't have a domain name yet, get your domain name now (before someone else beats you to it!)

STEP 2 >>

Get a Web Host

A web host is a company that enables your website to be viewed by the rest of the world, 24/7.

A web host (or hosting provider), is a company that makes your website available for the world to see. They have the equipment and technical skills to make sure your website is available to the world, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Choose your hosting provider carefully (Hostgator or Hostnine)- a good host will have excellent support. A bad host can have almost no support at all! If you're new to creating websites, good support can reduce the stress that comes from doing something for the first time.

Also, some web hosts have an online website builder. A good website builder can enable anyone to build a website - even complete novices.

STEP 3 >>

Build your Website

You can either build it yourself or use a website builder.

The easy way? The easiest way to build a website is to use your web host's website builder (assuming they have one).