So you really want to make a website today?
Sounds good – I like people who take action.
Here’s your first step: Sign up with a web host and register a domain name (in case you haven’t already).
I’m using Bluehost as a hosting and domain name provider in the example below. You can use any other hosting provider (if you want), but Bluehost is super-reliable, user-friendly and they offer a FREE domain for a limited time.
If you already have a domain name, don’t worry. You can still use Bluehost as your hosting, even if you bought your domain name from somewhere else (GoDaddy). The registration process shouldn’t take longer than 5 minutes.
Once you’ve signed up with Bluehost, I’ll show you how to install WordPress (free platform to build a website) through the Bluehost control panel.
I’ve also included guides for Joomla & Drupal (if anyone needs it).
P.S.: When you are setting up/making a website; a domain name and hosting are necessary. Otherwise you’ll be unable to set up your website for others to read and browse.
STEP 1: Go to Bluehost
Go to www.Bluehost.com and click on the “Get started now” button. If you use this link, you’ll be able to get a FREE domain, too. This discount applies to all websitesetup.org visitors (Yay!).
Disclosure: Because I’ve used Bluehost and found their service great, all links to Bluehost are referral links. I’ll earn a commission if you make a purchase and you’ll get a discounted price. This is how I keep WebsiteSetup.org up and running.
STEP 2: Choose Website Hosting Plan
Once you’ve clicked “Get Started Now”, you’ll be able to choose your hosting plan.
Select their Basic option – it’s perfect for brand new websites.
The Plus and Prime aren’t really needed unless you’re getting millions of visitors from day one (and best of all, you can save some cash too).
STEP 3: Secure a Domain Name
It doesn’t have to end with .com, so you can also use different endings (such as: .net, .org or even .co.uk) if your first choice isn’t available.
If you already have a domain name (i.e you bought it from somewhere else), use the right form – ‘I have a domain name’.
If you don’t want to choose your domain right away, you can also do it later.
STEP 4: Fill In Your Details
Enter your personal details to complete the registration process. Add you name, address, e-mail address
STEP 5: Check Your “Package Information” and Finish Registration
Don’t rush, these are the lasts steps you need to complete
Don’t go crazy with add-ons.
The add-ons that Bluehost provides are great, but most aren’t required.
However, there are few decent, optional ones to consider:
- Domain privacy – this will hide your personal information (name & address) to help reduce the number of unsolicited marketing emails you receive. If you want to keep your website/domain fully anonymous, tick that option. If you don’t want to stay anonymous, untick that option and you’ll save $0.99 per month.
- Site Backup Pro – While WordPress is quite secure, it’s wise to sign up for Site Backup Pro just in case. If you are scared that you’ll mess something up, tick that one to start receiving regular backups of your site. (However if you don’t choose it, you are able to sign up for less than $60/year.)
Once you have signed up with Bluehost, you are now able to start making/building websites on your domain name. Just log in to your control panel and choose WordPress, Joomla or Drupal as your website builder.
How to Install WordPress (or Joomla & Drupal) on Bluehost’s ‘One-click-installation’
Bluehost provides a ‘one-click-installation’ option for beginners so that you can get a WordPress, Joomla or Drupal website up-and-running with just a few seconds.
Just click on your preferred website software below and the guide will expand (with images).
Once you have a domain name, web hosting and website platform installed, you can go ahead and start reading my more in-depth guides for editing your website, adding new content and making it really work.
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