How to Start a WordPress Blog

If you’ve always been interested in starting your own website or blog on your own domain name rather than using WordPress.com or Blogger.com, you’re probably wondering, what do I need to know in order to start a blog?

For the novice, creating a website can be an overwhelming process. Not only do you have to register a domain name and find a webhost, but you’ll also have to learn how to actually install WordPress. Here is a simple guide on how to install WordPress.

1. Register Domain Name – I always GoDaddy.com since they offer domain names for $10.69 a year and by Googling “Go Daddy coupon” you can also find coupons for $7.49 domain names or at least 10% off your purchase.
2. Find a Website Host – There are tons of domain providers out there and domain hosting is pretty affordable for starter plans. You should be able to find a website host for $10/month. GoDaddy also provides hosting as well, but I’ve found that other companies provide better prices and service.
3. Change DNS Records – In your domain control panel, you’ll have to change your website’s DNS, which is just a technical way of saying that you need to direct the domain name to the entity that is hosting your website.
4. Download WordPress – WordPress.org is where you have to go to download the files necessary to install WordPress.
5. Upload WordPress – You’ll need an FTP program and know how to log into your website in order to upload WordPress onto your website.
6. Create a Database – Your webhost should provide you with access to a Control Panel where you can create databases and create users to access the database.
7. Install WordPress – After giving your database a name and assigning a user to it, you’ll need to enter this information during the WordPress installation so WordPress can connect to the database.
8. Configuring WordPress – Once WordPress is installed, you’ll need to configure it to your liking by installing a customized theme and plugins.

There’s the simple guide to installing WordPress. It seems rather simple, but many people can end up experiencing a lot of headaches getting it set up. If you’re looking to start your own website using WordPress, I would be happy to register your domain name, host your website for you, install WordPress, and make all necessary configurations, so you are instantly “good to go” without any headaches. We are currently running a special for instant WordPress installations for $199. This price includes the purchase price of the domain name for two years and three months of free hosting, which is a $50 value. If you would like to get started, please visit our WordPress installation page for more information.