Host Your Own Blog
Invest in Your Blog
Creating a blog can be as easy as typing words into a web form or as difficult as configuring software on a server. How do you decide on the best combination of services? Remember the old adage, "You get what you pay for."
Blog Hosting Decisions
To Host or Not to Host?
Running your own blog server will give you the most freedom to manage your blog and accompanying web assets. Purchase server space and either set up the blog yourself or pay someone to do the technical heavy lifting.
It doesn't have to be scary. Free blogging software, such as WordPress or MovableType, will help you manage your content. Sure, there are technical hurdles in the form of software updates and tough choices about which plugins to use. Help is just a click away. Wordpress.org has a robust support section, complete with forums for the community of users.
If hosting your own blog is not an option, you can create an account at a third-party blogging service like TypePad, Wordpress.com or Blogger and pay for a service plan. Worries about site performance and server maintenance will be lifted from your shoulders, and the purchase of upgrades can increase storage capacity, customization options and access to customer service. Though these services make setting up and running your blog a snap, they aren't a means of setting up a multifaceted web presence.
Who Will Set Up the Blog?
Finally, do a cost-benefit analysis of setting up the blog yourself vs. hiring someone to do the technical leg work.
Do It Yourself
How to Host Your Own Blog
- Purchase the domain name.
- Purchase web hosting (sometimes you can purchase a domain and hosting as a combo to save money).
- Make sure the domain name is pointed to your web server.
- Install blog management software such as WordPress or MovableType.
- Choose a pre-made theme or install CSS to set the look and feel of your blog.
- Select and install plug-ins to add functionality.
How to Host Your Blog with a Third Party
- Purchase the domain name.
- Create an account at a hosting service such as Blogger.com, WordPress.com or TypePad.com.
- Point the domain name to the hosting service.
- Use the provided tools to customize the look and functionality of your blog.