Hosting a website involves three key elements:
- a domain, also know as a web address
- a server, where the website files are hosted and processed
- and the website itself, or web app
By choosing the right domain, hosting option, and website platform, you can create a site that effectively serves your business and your customers. If you need help getting started, we’re here to assist you with everything from selecting a domain to setting up your website on our hosting services.
How to start a website: A Simple Guide
If you’re thinking about creating a website, it’s important to understand what’s needed to get your site up and running. Below, we’ll walk you through the three essential elements: a domain, a server, and the website itself. We’ll also explain some key factors to consider, so you can make the best choices for your needs.
1. A Domain: Your Website’s Address
A domain is the web address people type into their browser to find your website. For example, if your business is called “Best Coffee,” your domain might be something like bestcoffee.ie. The “.ie” at the end is particularly relevant for Irish users, as it indicates that your website is based in Ireland. This can also help your site appear more trustworthy to local customers.
To get a domain, you’ll need to register a domain here or through another domain registrar. Domains are registered on a yearly basis. Once you own the domain, it’s uniquely yours, and no one else can use it as long as you keep renewing it.
Important Considerations:
- Choose a domain name that is easy to remember and spell.
- If you’re targeting Irish customers, a “.ie” domain can be a great choice.
- Check that your desired domain name is available, as many popular names may already be taken.
2. A Server: Where Your Website Lives
A server is a powerful computer where your website is stored and from which it is delivered to anyone who visits your site. When someone types your domain into their browser, the server sends the website’s content to their device.
We offer two main types of hosting services:
- Shared Hosting: In this option, your website shares server space with other websites. This is a more cost-effective option, ideal for smaller sites or those just starting out. Find out more about our Shared Hosting here.
- Dedicated Hosting: With dedicated hosting, you get your own server. This means your website can handle more traffic and will generally load faster. This option is best for larger websites or businesses that expect high traffic. Find out more about our Dedicated Hosting here.
Important Considerations:
- Shared hosting is more affordable and suits most small to medium-sized websites.
- Dedicated hosting offers better performance, but at a higher cost.
3. The Website Itself: Your Content and Design
This is the actual content, design, and functionality that people see when they visit your domain. The website can be anything from a simple page with contact information to a complex web application with multiple features.
We use WordPress as our primary platform for building websites. WordPress is user-friendly, flexible, and allows for a wide range of customization, making it a great choice for most businesses. Whether you need a blog, an online store, or a portfolio, WordPress has the tools to help you create it. Find out more about our WordPress options here.
In addition to WordPress, we also support other web applications that might better suit your specific needs, such as invoicing and client support ticketing, tailored to specific projects. See our Web Apps section to see what options we have.
Important Considerations:
- Decide what you want your website to do (e.g., provide information, sell products, showcase work).
- WordPress is a great choice for most users due to its ease of use and flexibility.
- Ensure your website is mobile-friendly, as many users will visit from their phones.
Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need further assistance, or you can sign up to start your website with Krave Media.