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The Basics.
Q:
How can I get Internet access?
A: Some might think this is an obvious
question, but we might as well start from the top. Most people, when they
get a computer, already have Internet access from commercial online services
such as America Online (AOL), Prodigy, or Earthlink.
If you don't
already have internet access, there are many services who meet various
needs. If you're not cost conscious, there are quite a few out there with
reasonable, nominal mothly fees (such as the ones named above). If you
have a limited budget, there are some out there that provide free internet
access, but you might have to content with banner advertisements and such
that remain on your screen while you are online.
Q:
What will it take to get my site on the Internet?
A: You need an Internet Service Provider
(ISP) to give you the Internet access, as well as someone to host your
Web site. (Sometimes ISPs do both). A Web host provides you with the physical
space to house your Web site. If you are using free Web space from one
of the commercial online services, it is simply a matter of uploading
your files to that space. If you would rather have a customized Web address
(i.e.: www.yourname.com), then it is necessary to register your desired
domain name - or Web address - if available. At that point, it's a matter
of uploading your files to the designated address that is being hosted
by an ISP.
You can check for a domain name here:
Here's a site that is a great resource for information
on ISPs and Web hosts, The
List.
Also try:
Finding
an ISP
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Web
Site Specifics.
Q:
What can a Web site do for me?
A: A Web site compliments whatever
promotional methods that you may already have in place. With the Internet
being a global means of communication, you have the opportunity to increase
your exposure to more people in a quicker manner than your would with
traditional means of advertising. Most importantly, it can be less expensive
in the long run. Just think of it as an online business card being given
to many people daily.
Q: What are the costs?
A:
Back to
the "Basics" questions, you need to consider any costs for your
ISP or domain registration. The following are some general averages and
are not to be taken as exact amounts.
Internet
Service Providers (ISPs): Free to just under $20.
Domain registration
(if not part of a Web hosting package): $70/ first two years of your site
(required upfront). $35 each year thereafter.
Web site
design: Obviously, price varies according to what type of site is needed,
and how complicated the pages are to build.
Q:
How
can I maintain the site myself?
A:
If you have
basic knowledge of HTML, you may be able to maintain the site yourself
and make any changes as necessary. If needed, I will provide an additional
service of showing you how to maintain and upload your site.
Also try:
Hot
Text: Web Writing that Works (a book on writing text that grabs your
audience)
CNET
Internet Services: Glossary of Internet Terms
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