Creating a website is an important task. Having an easy to find and easy to remember website will attract customers. When exploring ways to create your own website, there is a lot to keep in mind. You have many options as to your website address, shared hosting, virtual private servers and dedicated servers. Here are the basics that you need to know:

Creating a domain name (web address)
-Your web address should be short and sweet
-It should easily show the customer whose website they are visiting
-Once you come up with a desired web address, you must purchase it from a domain name registrar. There are many ways to do this, but one of the easiest and most cost efficient ways is through DreamHost.

Hosting your webpage
-The information on your webpage must be stored somewhere. A PC will not have the power to store the amount of information that your website will hold. Because of this you must have a server to store it on.

• Option 1: You can purchase a dedicated server to host your site. This can get pricy, but it may be worth it. Purchasing a dedicated server will allow your site to be protected and in your control. Choose this if you have a complex database and plan on having heavy traffic.
• Option 2: You can use a Virtual Private Server which will store your information virtually, almost like the Cloud. By purchasing a VPS you will save money, but you don’t have the security of the dedicated server to back up your website 24/7. This is the option for you, if your website has heavy traffic.
• Option 3: Shared hosting. If you choose shared hosting, you are choosing to have your website reside on one web server. This server is shared by all customers who use that host. This is the cheapest option, but the least controllable. It is a great option for small businesses and bloggers.

You can contact me at JS@jscottco.com to set up a consultation. At that time we can discuss, in depth, what options would be best for you.