Frequently Asked Questions
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How does this Website stuff work? |
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Where do my Web pages reside? |
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What is a Domain name? |
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What is Search Engine Registration |
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What is Search Engine Optimization |
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Website or Web site; which is correct? |
How does this Website stuff work?
Very simply, a Website is a collection of files that reside on a server. These files contain code that your browser, such as Mozilla Firefox or Internet Explorer, has been programmed to "read" or interpret. This collection of files includes image files, sound files, video files, database files - anything required to make up a Website. Typically this collection of files has one "primary" file to which your Website address (URL) points. That primary file (the Home page) then contains links to other pages in the site. (top)
Your web pages reside on a server - somewhere. If you have email, you have an Internet Service Provider (ISP). Many ISPs will allow their customers a certain percentage of web space for personal web sites, typically 2 - 5 megabytes of space. Typically, any site that is intended to be a business site is not eligible for this free space. There are also a number of free "hosting" sites on the Internet where you can publish your web pages. There are pros and cons to utilizing such sites. (top)
A Domain Name is a unique name and Internet address that is associated with your site and yours alone. Although names may be similar, there are no name duplications on the 'net. You will need to do a search on the Domain name you want to register to see if it is available; if it is, then you must register it with a company authorized to do so. ICANN, the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers, provides a list of companies with whom you can register your domain name. Prices and terms vary. It would be a good idea for you to Google "domain name" to get an idea of the wide range of prices and services relative to Domain name registration. (top)
What is Search Engine Registration?
A Search Engine is a database in which information about web sites is stored. When a user enters a search string, the database is searched for matching and similar information. Search engine information is gathered based on various keywords, page titles, descriptions and key phrases that are contained in a web site. You can also register your site directly with a search engine. Some search engines charge a fee for registration and some do not. (top)
What is Search Engine Optimization (SEO)?
Information is placed in your web page in such a way as to heighten your chances of being identified as a unique, or one of the top, providers of the product, service or information that users are seeking. This information includes keywords, page titles, descriptions and phrases that pertain to your product, service or hobby. In addition, sites can be registered with the many search engines - some for a fee - to enhance the site's chances of making it into the top sites. (top)
Website or Web Site; which is correct?
I have to admit I have vascillated time and again over this one. If you search the 'net you will find it used both ways - sometimes in the same site! My personal decision was to use Website, but there is still little to be found supporting either one or the other. In a brief online search I did find one opinion which supports my decision; I would be most interested to know if anyone has located a definitive decision on the matter! (top)
Read "Planning Your Website"