Website Hosting Suggestions

[viceroy]

Hello Everyone,

Last night my boss @ work asked me if I could create a website for the restaurant that we work at. I haven't made pages in years, not since the days of writting out all the code yourself.

I know that by now it's very easy, and there are programs out there to do everything for you. I will be using a mac, and was wondering if anyone can suggest a program I could use to help create a good looking page. A free one would be nice, if not, to buy one is ok.

Also, what are the best hosting options? It won't be that big of a website...no huge files or anything like that. Just mainly some photos of the restaurant, menu information and other misc. info.



I appreciate any help that you can offer. Thanks in advance.

peace,
Steve

[asdf_admin]

depends on how much you want and need.

if it is just simply photos & media related info, a 2.99 plan would be swell. if you want to payfor high tech features and super super servers. you can pay 1000 a month.

invest some time, you can also post an offer here ... http://www.hostingdiscussion.com

[darkmark]

Re: Website Hosting Suggestions

I suggest getting a free trial copy of Dreamweaver from Macromedia.com to do the HTML, a trial copy of Fireworks to do the graphics and then getting a domain/hosting package from http://www.1and1.com for $4.95/month and you'll be on your way. Expect to spend some time getting up to speed with Dreamweaver, FTP, fireworks, graphics design, etc. The trail versions last 30 days. This is about the cheapest way to get your project done that I know of. Good luck.

[viceroy]

cool, thanks for the help guys, I appreciate it.

peace,
steve

[3dx]

Dreamweaver is a cool program, but there are a ton more. These programs have a slight learning curve when you first open them, and if you are interested in doing more of this kind of work, this learning curve is not bad, but if this site is all you will be creating, then it could be too much. Programs such as Front Page are intended for the first-timer, and those that don't want to take the time to learn the better (yes, Dreamweaver is light years better than Front Page) programs.

You might also consider asking your host if they have a built-in HTML design program. These are usually web-based, and built to design small sites.

As far as hosting goes, do your research before you signup with anyone. Not all hosting is the same, and you'll regret the time you didn't spend now if you don't do it. I've been in the business for over 4 years, and I've seen them come and go, and I've seen even reputatable companies get hammered because they provide shitty service.

You might also check out http://www.webhostingtalk.com These guys only talk hosting, and you should be able to find the good and bad on any company you are looking into.

Good luck on your search, if you have questions, feel free to shoot me a PM.

[Kamal]

Steve, I dont even need to tell what is the best hosting service dude....

FUCKING 3DXHOSTING.COM by far... I have all Mercury sites hosted on there.... fast as shit and the best response to problems, you cant go wrong with them

-e-

[Kamal]

oh... and thanks 3dx for everything

-e-

[ian]

My host http://www.cube-media.com/ has a built in HTML editor. It's nothing too complex but if you have a basic knowledge of HTML code then it does everything you need it to! Best of all, it's free with the hosting!

I would steer away from dreamweaver for the minute - it is an incredible package, but it's got quite a steep learning curve- an inexperienced operator can easily churn out pretty shabby sites but to use it properly it takes quite a while learning it. Besides it's far too expensive to consider for a one off job (unless of course you can get it done in the 30 day trial! But personally I would expect to take at least that long learning it!)

[dvs]

i used site studio, www.dotsw.com, to make my webpage, real simple to use....also 3dx to host it...

[3dx]

Thanks for the praise you two. I host a few MS'ers, and would be happy to talk over anything you might need, if you are still looking.

You can use the PM button to contact, and the WWW button under this message or the 3dx Hosting button at the bottom of the page to check us out.