How Do I Set Up My Own Web Page for Free?

Don't let the details of building a Web page overwhelm you. It doesn't have to cost a lot of money. Creating a website can actually be done for free. The Internet allows people to build free websites every day. With the proper resources, you can create a free Web page by following the steps below.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. 

   Find a free hosting website for your Web page. Try sites such as Webs.com, Microsoft Office Live or Yahoo! GeoCities (see Resources). All of these websites offer free hosting and easy tools to design your website. Be sure to take advantage of the free sub-domains for your website as well. That way you will not have to pay the fee to register a personal domain name.

2. 

   Plan your Web page. Decide what the purpose of your Web page will be. Is it for business, to promote a product or hobby, a school page or a family Web page? Think about the text you'd like to display on your website. Keep it simple and to the point.

3. 

   Use free clip art or photos that you already have on your computer to enhance your Web page. Microsoft Office online (see Resources), offers free photos and images you can use for your website. Be sure not to overload your page with too many images. Having too many images can make a Web page appear busy or take longer for other Web surfers to download.

4. 

   Sign up for a free email account at Yahoo!, Hotmail or Office Live so you have contact information for your Web page. Be sure to add the email address so others who visit your page may contact you.

5. 

   Publish your website once you have your design created. Share the website link on message boards in your profile signature line, or email it to friends, family and colleagues. This is often easy marketing for a new Web page.

Tips & Warnings

• Consult with those who have experience in creating Web pages. This should save on any upfront fees for the design of your Web page.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Free clip art at Office Live
• Free website and hosting at Webs.com
• Create a free website at Office Live
• Yahoo! GeoCities