SimplyWebtastic

WordPress is an extremely friendly and easy-to-use blogging system.  Depending on your needs and computer skills, there are a couple of methods you can use to setup your blog, and  some factors you should consider before you launch your WordPress blog.

Method #1 – Free WordPress Blog

Think about these questions:

1. Would you like to use your own custom domain name (ex. simplywebtastic.com), or a third-level domain name like myblog.wordpress.com?
2. Will you need to store lots of photos, music, or video files for your blog?
3. Do you like fiddling with the blog code to tweak your site just right?
4. Do you need to do lots of private blogs?

If you answered YES to any of them, you’re going to need to spend a little extra money if you host with wordpress.com because the features mentioned above are paid upgrades.

You should visit their site to get an idea of the extra costs involved.  Take some notes on the costs and compare them to the costs for a full hosting site. 

Method #2 – Paid Web Hosts

Your probably already thinking, “Why would anyone pay for a blog when they can get one for free?” The answer is simple; space, flexibility and lots of customization!  With most paid hosts, you’ll be able to do what you want, when you want, for a small monthly fee.  Depending on the goal of your website, these monthly hosting fees may afford you more flexibility and less headaches in the future.

I’ve dealt with many web hosting providers over the years.  Please DO NOT base your choice of web hosts solely on cost alone.  This can be very misleading.  You need to compare the services they offer, their reputation, and then their fees.

I personally like and have had success using the web hosts listed below:

1. Host Gator (read review)
2. 1&1 Internet, Inc.

There are literally thousands of web host providers out there.  Do your homework and read others comments about their compliments and complaints about various web hosts.  Not all web hosts are created equal.  You may never need help from your web host provider, but if you do, you’ll want to make sure there’s someone available, who’s competent enough to handle your problem, to assist you.