5 things you really should know about websites and the internet

We’ve been doing website “stuff” for years. Consequently we can’t remember what it’s like not to know the basics. So I decided to write a post about the basics, so you don’t have to feel embarrassed about asking us.

Enough waffle here we go:

1. Domain Names
   Our domain name is “edgeoftheweb.co.uk”. Domain names can be used for email (i.e. test@edgeoftheweb.co.uk) and for your company website (i.e. www.edgeoftheweb.co.uk). Without a domain name, you can’t have a website (or branded email). We include these free for 1 year with all web packages.
2. Hosting
   You need hosting for any website, otherwise it wont appear on the internet. Your website lives on one (or more) computers as a bunch of files in a folder. The computer(s) on which your website (files) reside, must be switched on and connected to the internet in order for people to be able to see (access) it. We include hosting free for 1 year with all web packages.
3. Content Management System (CMS)
   A tool that allows people to edit their own website without any sophisticated technical knowledge. You visit a special page on your website and enter your private login details to gain access to the program that lets you update your site. Very useful if you want to regularly change the words on your website (i.e. company news). We include a Content Management System free with most of our packages.
4. Logo
   A logo is the visual identifying mark of your company. Your logo should set the brand, trend and tone for the entire design of your website (and other marketing materiel). Sometimes your logo is a simple graphic, sometimes just your company name in writing, and sometimes a combination of the two. Avoid clipart, complicated or fussy designs and don’t let your friend do it for you, and you can’t go far wrong!
5. Search Engines
   A search engine is a tool that tries to guess which website you are looking for, based on the keywords you type in. Google is the most popular example of a search engine. Websites acquire most of their visitors through  search engines, although social media channels such as twitter and facebook are gaining credibility as sources for acquiring website visitors.