Creating a website can seem like a daunting task, but with the right guidance, it can be a smooth and rewarding process. Whether you’re starting a personal blog, an online store, or a professional portfolio, this guide will help you get started.
Why Are You Creating a Website?
Before you start, ask yourself: Why am I creating a website? Knowing the answer—whether it’s to generate more sales leads or to showcase the quality of your services through images—can help you decide if you need a web developer or if you can use AI tools to build a modern, purpose-fit website.
Step 1: Choose Your Domain Name
Your domain name is your website’s address on the internet (e.g., www.yourwebsite.com). Choose a name that reflects your brand or the purpose of your website. Keep it short, memorable, and easy to spell.
Step 2: Register Your Domain
Once you’ve chosen a domain name, you’ll need to register it through a domain registrar like IT Lifeline, GoDaddy, Namecheap, or Google Domains. This process ensures that your domain name is unique and reserved for your use.
Step 3: Set Up DNS (Domain Name System)
DNS is like the phone-book of the internet. It translates your domain name into an IP address that computers use to locate your website. When you register your domain, you’ll need to configure your DNS settings. Here’s how:
- Access Your DNS Settings: Log in to your domain registrar’s website and navigate to the DNS management section.
- Add DNS Records: You’ll need to add various DNS records, such as A records (which point your domain to your website’s IP address) and MX records (which handle email routing).
- Update Nameservers: If you’re using a web hosting service, you might need to update your domain’s nameservers to point to your hosting provider.
Step 4: Choose a Web Hosting Service
Your web hosting service stores your website’s files and makes them accessible on the internet. Popular options include shared hosting, VPS hosting, and dedicated hosting. Choose a plan that fits your needs and budget.
Step 5: Design Your Website
Now it’s time to design your website. You can use website builders like Go-daddy, WordPress, Wix, or Squarespace to build your own website. They offer user-friendly interfaces and customisation templates that allow anyone, even without technical skills, to quickly create a website. Alternatively, you can hire a web developer for a more personalised touch.
***********Pro Tip***********
If you are considering the website builders route and want to use your website to generate leads, take a look at Wes McDowell ‘s tutorial.
External Links: https://youtu.be/K5is_yACb7M?si=cXW40ekZCtHgWEaW
Step 6: Set Up Email
Having a professional email address (e.g., yourname@yourwebsite.com) adds credibility to your business. Here’s how to set it up:
- Choose an Email Hosting Provider: Many web hosting services offer email hosting as part of their packages. Alternatively, you can use services like Microsoft 365.
- Configure MX Records: Update your DNS settings to include MX records provided by your email hosting provider. This ensures that emails sent to your domain are routed correctly.
- Create Email Accounts: Set up individual email accounts for yourself and your team members.
Step 7: Launch Your Website
Before launching, thoroughly test your website to ensure everything works correctly. Check for broken links, test forms, and make sure your site looks good on both desktop and mobile devices. Once you’re satisfied, it’s time to go live!
Step 8: Get Your Website Found
Once your site is live, you’ll want it to be easily found by people searching for information. This is where Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) comes in. If your website is built to generate leads, aim to get it on the first page of Google search results. Some website builders offer tools to help improve your SEO score, but be aware that this may come at an additional cost. Other techniques include purchasing Google Ads, which is a significant industry, estimated to be worth $237.86 billion.
Conclusion
Creating a website is a journey, but with the right steps, it can be a rewarding one. Follow this guide to build a site that meets your goals and stands out on the internet. At IT Lifeline, we are always here to help. We can help you navigate the pitfalls. Please reach out and give us a call if you are considering creating you own website.