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If you've already had experience with websites, you probably don't need this information. But if you're new to websites, read on.
What's involved with starting and maintaining a website?
A domain name is not the same as a website. It is simply the alphanumeric representation of your website's IP address. IP addresses are to the Internet what phone numbers are to the phone system. In fact, they are very similar and everyone has one, even if you didn't know it. If you're interested, click here to find out your IP address. Domains are a much easier way to find someone than typing in 76.184.60.120 (for example). They are a cross reference that allows us to more easily find businesses and the like. Imagine if phone numbers had such a service and you could dial "John Smith in Burbank, CA".
To that end, you can obtain a domain name yourself or we can help you get one. We also have availability of sub-domains for therapists under the "latherapy.org" domain. In this way, your website could be janedoe.latherapy.org. Domain names usually run about $10 a year and need to be renewed yearly.
- Getting an Internet Service Provider (ISP)
There are many ISPs out there, but some are better than others. There are also various packages within each ISP and they increase in cost based on need. The majority of small businesses or sole proprietorships need only take the most basic account. As with domains, you can obtain these yourself or we can help you get one. If you choose to be a sub-domain with us, we can also provide this as part of the service package.
- Setting up a website, which type do you need or want?
For some people, a basic static page website is all they need. These are simple, would probably consist of only a few pages, and once they are set up, probably don't change much. They may provide some standard information on how to contact the business and little else.
For others, a more complex website might be in order. For them we suggest looking at a Content Management System (CMS). These allow users with little or no website training to modify their web pages. For more information on this, please refer to "What is a CMS?" page.
Most websites come with email addresses as well. It is easy enough to set those to be forwarded to your personal email address, thus giving you a security "wall" from unwanted contacts.
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