subject: Can You Build Your Own Website For Free? [print this page] If you're like a lot of people who are hoping to create a website, you don't want to pay too much. After all, even if you think you'll make money off the site eventually, you may not have a lot to spend right away. Depending on the type of site you're planning on building, you can put together something effective for very little money. In some cases, you can even do it for free. Here's a look at some of your most important monetary considerations when you build a new site.
Hosting
The first and most important component of your new site will be the Web hosting. While most businesses and professional sites opt for paid hosting, you may be able to use a free site, especially while your webpage is fairly new. Remember that many free Web hosts restrict the content, size and uses of your site. They often also require you to display advertisements on your site, which can interfere with a professional look. If you're planning to build a small site that won't get a lot of traffic right away, however, a free host might be just what you need.
Domain Name
The next thing to consider is whether or not you require a domain name. Contrary to popular belief, not all site owners need to pay for their own domain. If you get a free website that provides you with a relatively short, memorable URL, you may not need to register your own domain name right away. If you run a business or need your site for other professional purposes, however, it's usually worth it to spend the $10 to $20 per year to secure a name your customers will remember.
Site Design
Your site design will be extremely important to your visitors. A poorly put together site can actively drive people away, while a well-made one will invite them in and entice them to stay. This doesn't mean you need a complex design in all cases, however. You may be able to use a very simple HTML layout, or even a pre-made template, to put together a basic page. If you need something a little more complex but don't know how to code, consider using a CMS, or content management system, to add the features you need. For a truly-professional site with all the bells and whistles, however, it's usually worthwhile to pay a professional.
Content Production
When you create a website, you can't forget about content. Once you know where your site will be hosted, how your visitors will find it, and what the site will look like, it's time to fill in graphics, text, store items and other content. Make sure this material is relevant, well-written and too the point. Again, if you don't feel as though you have the skills to do a good job, hire a pro. Otherwise, you can probably produce your own content for free. Just make sure you don't duplicate other material, that your content uses keywords intelligently, and that you check everything for correct spelling and grammar.
