How to set up a WordPress blog on a web hosting service?

Hello Janine,

Your website, Digital Family, is a very useful and friendly website to learn about web development. With the help of the amazing tutorials on your website, I was able to create a WordPress blog by setting up my computer as a Web server (MAMP). However, now I want to put this blog on the Internet and that’s where I’m a little confused. I originally thought that I just needed a domain to upload this blog. When I emailed some people about this, they told me that I needed a web hosting plan. Is it necessary to buy a web hosting plan? How does it differ from buying just a domain?

Thank You,

Parth

You’re not the only person to be confused by the difference between domain name registration and web hosting. In my FAQ, I’ve tried to answer that question here:

Once you sign up with a web hosting service, you’ll need to move your blog from your computer to the web server on your host, and that’s a little more complicated than simply uploading files. Ideally, you should choose a web host that supports WordPress and includes support for installing WordPress, then you just need to transfer your templates and content.

One of the best ways to move a WordPress site, is also the best WordPress backup program. You can learn more about that in the FAQ at  http://ithemes.com/purchase/backupbuddy/

I hope that helps and I wish you all the best with your new blog.

Janine