The process of getting a website online has never been easier and more complicated than it is now. There are so many options to help you get a site online that it can be overwhelming. One of the biggest pain points my clients have is understanding all of the moving parts that are needed to getting and keeping a site online.
This isn’t unique to new website owners, but also to those that already have an existing website. Untangling what was done to get their site online can often be an impediment to growing an existing site. Small business owners, freelancers and those in the ‘gig-economy’ that find themselves in need of an online presence beyond social media are tasked once again at wearing another hat that may not fit well with their skillset.
Before you have a conversation with any developer you should have a basic understanding of two things I always talk to clients and potential clients about.
1. You should always register your domain name yourself. This is the single most important piece of advise I can pass along to clients. Owning your domain, as in registering it yourself, is crucial. Having it in your name allows you to control what you do with it, what is displayed when people type it into their browser, and gives you complete control of your website for as long as you own that domain name.
2. Web hosting comes in many forms. A ‘web host’ is someone that maintains or has access to maintain a server that your website is stored on and served to the internet from. There are a lot of options, free and paid, when it comes to hosting a website. There are also advantages and disadvantages when it comes to choosing the right hosting company.
It can be complicated, but it shouldn’t have to be. Understanding these basic concepts and working with a developer (not a designer) that understands both them and your needs can make getting your project online a breeze and ensures that your existing site has a solid foundation for success. If your website needs a facelift or complete re-do, give us a call. We’d love to help!
