How to create a website, step by step
You no longer need a web designer or any code to create a good website. You choose a platform, pick a domain, build the pages from a template or an AI draft, and publish. This guide covers each step, the choices that matter, and what a site really costs to run for a year.
1. Decide what the site is for
A portfolio, a small business site, an online store and a blog need different things. Write down the main job, such as bookings, sales or enquiries, and the pages you need: usually home, about, services or products, and contact.
2. Choose how to build it
There are three routes. A website builder such as Wix, Squarespace, B12 or Hostinger is the fastest: hosting, security and updates are included. WordPress gives you the most freedom and a site you own outright, but you look after updates yourself. An online store platform such as Shopify is the right start if selling is the main job.
3. Register a domain
Pick a short name that is easy to say and spell, ideally your business name. Many builders include a free domain for the first year on paid plans; otherwise a domain costs roughly $10 to $20 a year. Check the renewal price as well as the first-year price.
4. Build the pages
Start from a template or an AI draft that already fits your kind of business. Replace the sample text with your own, add real photos, and keep each page focused on one thing. Check every page on a phone before you publish.
5. Go live and connect the basics
Publish on your domain, set up a professional email address, and add a contact form or booking button. If you sell, test a real purchase from start to finish before you announce the site.
6. Get found on Google
Give each page a clear title and description, register the site in Google Search Console, and create a Google Business Profile if you serve a local area. Add new pages over time that answer the questions your customers actually ask.
What a website costs for a year
The cheapest credible route is Hostinger's builder at about $4 a month if you prepay four years ($16.99 a month on renewal). Mainstream builders cost more: Wix Core and Squarespace Core are $29 a month, and B12's Website plan is $24 ($20 billed yearly). WordPress software is free, but hosting, a premium theme and plugins typically add up to a similar amount. A one-page site on Carrd costs $19 a year.
| Score | From | Free plan | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wix | 8.6 | $17/mo | Yes |
| Squarespace | 8.4 | $19/mo | No |
| WordPress | 7.9 | $0/mo | Yes |
| Hostinger | 7.5 | $2.99/mo | No |
| Shopify | 9.0 | $29/mo | No |
Questions people ask
What is the easiest way to create a website?
An AI website builder such as B12, Wix or Hostinger. Describe your business, let it draft the site, then edit the details and publish.
Can I create a website for free?
Yes, on the builders' free plans, but the site uses the builder's address and branding. A paid plan is needed for your own domain.
Website builder or WordPress?
A builder if you want to be online quickly without maintenance; WordPress if the site will grow large or you want full ownership and do not mind looking after updates.
How long does it take to create a website?
A simple site can be live in an afternoon with an AI builder. Allow a few days if you are writing your own copy and taking photos.
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