In the simplest terms, a web site is a collection of text files with hypertext mark-up language (HTML) codes. However you don't have to be a computer wizard to actually create your own web site these days. Several web hosts are so user-friendly that even a beginner can build a site on his own using the online tools provided. All it requires is the ability to follow simple instructions and a basic feel for color and design.
Easy-to-use HTML editors are very popular with those wanting to create their own web sites. They allow you to create your pages in a simple word processor-like format, while the program writes the HTML code in the background. To upload the page onto your site, you have to copy the code, paste it on a blank document, and save the page to the web via the hosting company.
Some HTML editors like Microsoft FrontPage help to not only create pages but also upload them to the web with built-in publishing features. This has become very popular with beginners over the past few years. In fact if you use Windows 98 or a more updated version you might have a free version of Microsoft FrontPage Express already loaded on your computer.
These editors offer web templates or site designs that can be customized with a user's own text and photographs to create a professional looking web site. While a custom-made web site can cost anything up to a thousand dollars, a web template can cut your cost to under $50. This is the ideal method for someone wanting to create a flexible and interactive business site.
While templates require a basic knowledge of HTML, some hosts offer tools that allow you to design and build a site online complete with text, graphics, logos and color schemes for about $30. These options are very useful for someone looking to create a small, personal web site.
How you create your web site will depend on what you require and what you intend to use the site for. An e-commerce web site or online store will require a different format from a simple web site that is only intended to provide information. Take your time to plan the structure, content and look before you set out to create a web site that is both attractive and effective!