BUILD YOUR OWN
    WEBSITE













FINDING A HOME

Now that you've surfed around and have an idea of the possibilities, your future website will need an address in cyberspace.

In the real world, your pages are actually computer files written in Hypertext Markup Language (HTML).  These files are stored in a computer called a server.  The server runs software that makes it possible for a browser (like Netscape or Internet Explorer) to display your pages.   The owner of the computer server(s), is called a host and the host usually charges rent for the web space.   Notice how I said "usually?"




You'll want to look at your hosting options--

major online networks like AOL, MSN, Prodigy, CompuServe and others offer web space for their members as part of the monthly access charge

local internet service providers (ISPs) like InterLink, Interpac, Lava.net, Verizon, RoadRunner, etc. also offer web space to their members

online free hosting communities such as Homestead, FortuneCity, Yahoo's Geocities, Netscape, Tripod, Angelfire and many, many others will host your site for free in return for running small banner ads on your site

online communities like iVillage, ZDNet  and will also give you access to free hosting but, unlike the free hosting communities that center around member pages, they center around their own pages

the UHH webserver also provides some web space to students and faculty at no cost

In addition to looking at the price of the hosting options, check out what they offer in terms of web building software, amount of space, and enhancements like graphics, storefronts, bulletin boards, guestbooks, search engine submission, and technical support.  

TIP:   Homestead, Fortune City and Tripod have free, downloadable, web builder software. Although it may take a while to do the initial download, the wait is worth it.  You can use these builders off-line without tying up your phone line (assuming you are using a phone modem, of course).