How to Get Started with WordPress Hosting?

If you’re looking for a simple and reliable web host that supports the WordPress content management system (CMS), then you’ve probably come to the right place. We’ve compiled a list of the absolute essentials required in order to get started, and even then, you might want to consider alternatives.

1. Go Cheap

Although not always the case, it’s normally best to purchase cheap, yet reliable web hosts instead of expensive ones which might or might not be reliable. It’s better to spend a little less money now in order to save a lot later, especially if you’re trying to establish a long-term business relationship. This is especially important if you’re planning to use the host as a platform for affiliate marketing, as most web hosts don’t offer the same level of convenience for affiliates as premium web hosts do. Having said that, there are plenty of very cheap, reliable web hosts out there that you can take a look at, like Bluehost.

2. Install WordPress Yourself

WordPress is a free and open-source content management system (CMS) that is supported by a huge amount of third-party developers and volunteers. As a content management system, it is very easy to install and requires minimal technical knowledge. Additionally, WordPress is very flexible. You can use it for any sort of website or blog that you might want to create, and it can be tailored to fit your needs. If you’re looking for a reliable and free web host that you can install WordPress to, then you’ve come to the right place.

3. Choose A Custom Domain

A custom domain is a unique URL which points to a website or blog. Whenever someone clicks on a link which leads to your website or blog, they will be automatically navigated to the domain you select. If you run a blog, then you can use a free service like Bluehost to establish yourself as an authority in your industry — potentially growing your audience by a thousand percent within a year.

Custom domains are important because they give your site or blog a separate identity. For example, if you run a food blog that focuses on Italian culinary delights, you might want to consider using a custom domain that includes the word `italian` in it so that your content can be easily found in searches that include this term. Additionally, having a custom domain will make it much easier for people to find your content in the event that they are interested in your industry — increasing the chances of them turning into paying customers.

4. Install WordPress To The Fullest

The WordPress documentation is quite clear when it comes to this point:

• Make sure that you have the latest version installed.
• Keep plugins updated.
• Check for updates frequently.
• Customize all the necessary options.

As a general rule of thumb, it’s best to install WordPress to its fullest extent. This means that you should have a dedicated space on your server for WordPress files (usually located in your `public_html` folder) and make sure that it’s set up correctly with the required directories and files. In addition, you should also have a MySQL database available so that WordPress can connect to it easily. Lastly, if you’re using WordPress as a template-based system, then you’ll need to install a copy of the WordPress template hierarchy which contains all the default WordPress templates.

5. Install WordPress To A Dedicated Folder

A dedicated folder is just another way of saying “folder” or “directory” in the context of a server installation. It’s a place where you can host all your website or blog content without having to worry about whether or not it will interfere with the operation of the server itself — allowing you to effortlessly add and remove content as needed. When choosing a dedicated folder for WordPress, you should first consider the security of the location — making sure that it is a secure server and is located behind a firewall.

Dedicated folders are important because, generally speaking, they provide a secure and reliable place for website or blog content. Meaning that if someone does manage to hack into your main server or install a virus onto it, then they will not be able to access any of your content because it is contained within a dedicated folder. Additionally, if your content is located in a dedicated folder, then it will not count towards your daily file count — avoiding potential repercussions from overusing popular file sharing websites like CDN or Fast CDN.

6. Install WordPress To A Managed Cloud Hosting Plan

WordPress runs smoothly on all types of servers, but it is not advisable to run it from a free host that is offered by a social media platform or web host that you’ve never heard of. For that reason, it is best to go with a managed cloud hosting plan from a reputable company.

This kind of hosting offers all the advantages of a dedicated server without the associated technical complexity and cost. In addition, you can rest assured that your data will be encrypted at all times, as well as being backed up and restored automatically.

7. Use A Free DNS Service

A free DNS service is one that’s supported by a free or paid service of some kind (such as Bluehost or Cloudflare). These DNS services are important because they point your domain name to your server’s IP address, which is the Internet protocol (IP) address you use to connect to other websites. Without a DNS service, your domain name and associated websites will not properly function, displaying a “can’t find server” error message when clicked on.

DNS services are important because they give your domain name a human-readable identity, making it easier for others to find and connect to your content. For example, if you run a blog about fashion, you might want to consider choosing a DNS service that is dedicated to domain names related to fashion — making sure to input your blog’s URL in the appropriate field.

8. Use Cloudflare To Its Fullest

Cloudflare is one of the biggest providers of managed and free DNS services. While not quite as flexible as DNS services which are proprietary (i.e. from a single company), Cloudflare’s DNS is quite flexible — allowing you to use a wildcard in the A (Address) field when registering a new domain.

With a managed Cloudflare DNS, you get all the reliability of a dedicated server without having to pay for it. This is beneficial to those who are new to web hosting or are on a budget, as it can potentially save them hundreds of dollars per year. In addition, as a Cloudflare customer, you have access to all their powerful security tools — protecting your site from potential attacks or breaches. This could include things like advanced malware scanning, DDoS protection, and domain privacy.

Final Takeaway

WordPress is an excellent choice for those who want to establish a blog. Whether you’re looking to write about technology, gaming, or comics, you’ll be able to find a WordPress-backed blog or website that is suitable for your needs. As stated above, WordPress is very flexible, so you can find a template that suits your needs perfectly — without having to deal with bloated form letters from vendors.

If you’re looking to create a commercial site which includes eCommerce functionality, then you might want to consider Magento or Opencart. These are more expensive options but can give you the ability to create a fully-functioning website with all the bells and whistles — including backups, security, and support from a reputable company. Alternatively, if you don’t need an online store and are looking for a simple blogging platform, then you can use WordPress and its thousands of free plugins to create an ideal medium for your content.