Why you need a domain and web hosting plan to succeed online
By Elkanah Nyauma
Why you need a domain and web hosting plan to succeed online
Purchase a Web Hosting Plan
For more control and flexibility, invest in a low-cost web hosting plan. You can get a hosting plan for as low as KES 375 per month, which provides access to cPanel, where you can install WordPress and start building your website.
Steps to Purchase and Set Up Hosting
- Select a Hosting Provider:
- Recommended Providers: DoubleServ Web Consultancy, Truehost, HostPinnacle.
- Choose a Plan:
- Look for a basic web hosting plan that fits your budget, around KES 375 per month.
- Register Your Domain:
- During the hosting setup process, you can register a .co.ke domain for approximately KES 1,100 annually or a .com domain for around KES 2,200 annually.
- Set Up Your Web Hosting Account:
- Follow the instructions from your web hosting provider to set up your account and gain access to cPanel.
5. Install WordPress via cPanel
Once you have access to cPanel, you can easily install WordPress, which offers extensive customization options with themes and plugins.
Steps to Install WordPress
- Log into cPanel:
- Use the login credentials provided by your hosting provider.
- Find the WordPress Installer:
- Look for the “Softaculous Apps Installer” or “WordPress” icon in cPanel.
- Install WordPress:
- Follow the on-screen instructions to install WordPress on your domain.
6. Customize Your WordPress Site
With WordPress installed, you can start customizing your blog to make it look professional and unique.
Choose and Install a Premium Theme
- Select a Theme:
- Visit the WordPress theme repository or premium theme sites like ThemeForest.
- Install the Theme:
- Go to the WordPress dashboard, navigate to Appearance > Themes > Add New, and upload your theme.
- Customize:
- Use the WordPress Customizer to adjust the theme to fit your style, including colors, fonts, and layout.
Install Essential Plugins
- Yoast SEO: Helps with search engine optimization.
- Contact Form 7: Creates contact forms.
- WP Super Cache: Improves site speed.
- Site Kit: Offers security, performance, and site management tools.
7. Create Essential Pages
- About Page: Introduce yourself and explain the purpose of your blog.
- Contact Page: Provide a way for readers to reach you.
- Privacy Policy: Outline how you handle data and privacy (important for legal compliance).
8. Write and Publish Your First Post
- Quality Content: Focus on providing valuable, well-researched information.
- Engaging Titles: Create compelling headlines to attract readers.
- SEO Optimization: Use keywords and meta descriptions to optimize your posts for search engines.
9. Promote Your Blog
- Social Media: Share your posts on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
- Networking: Connect with other bloggers and participate in blogging communities.
- Guest Posting: Write for other blogs to reach a wider audience.
10. Engage with Your Audience
- Respond to Comments: Build a community by interacting with your readers.
- Email List: Encourage readers to subscribe for updates.
11. Monitor and Improve
- Analytics: Use tools like Google Analytics to track your blog’s performance.
- Feedback: Listen to your readers and make improvements based on their suggestions.
By investing a small amount in a web hosting plan and utilizing WordPress, you can create a professional and customizable blog that can grow with your audience.
Contact Us for your web hosting and domain
To create your blog or business website and enjoy affordable web hosting and domain prices, get in touch with us at DoubleServ Web Consultancy. We’d love to hear from you! Whether you have a question, feedback, or just want to say hello, feel free to reach out.
Email: web@doubleservweb.co.ke
Phone: +254 704 098 238
Website: https://doubleservweb.co.ke/