While all web hosting providers are different, there are some tools that you can typically expect to get when you sign up for their services. These tools are simply there to make life easier for you. In the past, you had to get all of the tools and software programs that you needed on your own, and the hosts just rented out the server space that you would use for the site. You can definitely still take this approach if you know what programs you want to use, but you are not forced to with modern companies, which provide many of the programs so that you do not have to buy them. The following are a few examples, but you should know that there are many other useful tools on top of these.
Web Design Programs
The most powerful tool for someone who is working on their first site is the web design program. This is a system that allows you to create a new site without knowing how to write a single line of HTML code. You can change the setup, choose a template, pick out your colors, and upload things like text, videos and photos. While this does limit your freedom a bit – there are not endless choices for templates – it can also lead you to a site that looks more professional than anything you would make on your own.
FTP Programs
An FTP allows you to upload your own files onto the hosting server. If you want to build all of the pages online, you may not have to use this, but most people prefer to build the sites on their computers and then upload them when they are done. If you download an FTP on your own, you then have to link it to the right host server, and you have to learn how to use it, which can simply be a waste of time, especially if things get confusing for you. A program that is offered by the host often lets you simply drag and drop your files, making it incredible easy to use.
FAQ Directories
While an FAQ is not technically a tool that you can use to built the site, you may find that it is the most useful thing that a web host provider offers you. They know that you have a lot of questions, which can all be answered quickly and effectively.
