I have my own business and I want to expand it online but I have no idea what half the crap I am needing means or what it dose. Might as well talk German to me because I’m not understanding, I know I need a web template but how do I get a domain name , or a host? I’m not even sure what those are. There’s a bunch of things I’m sure I need I just don’t know or understand them. Please Help me!!!
You should take a look at Office Live Small Business from Microsoft. They make it really easy to pick your domain name, create a website, and host it.
Here is an explanation of what a domain name is: http://ask.officelive.com/smallbusiness/wiki/support/register-a-domain-name.aspx
And here is an explanation of domain hosting: http://ask.officelive.com/smallbusiness/wiki/articles/how-to-choose-a-web-host-for-your-business.aspx
Good Luck,
Jeff
MSFT Office Live Outreach
Actually, you may find some help at your local Small Business Administration. http://www.sba.gov
These folks are all about promoting small business and your local advisors may be able to point you at resources for expanding to an online presence.
Just be advised – this will be an electronic equivalent to a storefront. It will take maintenance, you will have to spend money on the infrastructure, and you will have to have a plan. Just like opening a new store, you will have to design your website including how it’s laid out and what sorts of information it will contain. There is a lot to think about. See if your SBA rep can connect you with web site designers, and then get proposals from them before spending any money. Beware of anyone who claims they can have you up and profitable online in just a few weeks. Something like this can take months to do well.
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