[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.16″ locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Don\u2019t worry \u2013 you don\u2019t need to know how to code or be a tech expert. There are plenty of simple and intuitive solutions that allow you to build a website without writing a single line of code. In this article, I will guide you through the basics: domains, hosting, ready-made platforms, CMSs, and basic graphic design tools.<\/p>\n
A domain is the address where users can find you (e.g., mycompany.uk<\/em>).<\/p>\n A domain name is a unique address that identifies a website on the internet. It replaces complex IP addresses and makes it easier for users to access websites.<\/p>\n A domain consists of several key elements:<\/p>\n A domain can function perfectly without a subdomain or protocol \u2013 e.g., mycompany.co.uk<\/em> is a fully operational address. Thanks to this structure, each domain is a unique address allowing users to navigate websites easily.<\/p>\n As you may have noticed, the domain name must be unique. Therefore, you should be aware that the best domain for your website might already be taken.<\/p>\n Domain availability can be checked with domain registrars. Popular registrars in the UK include:<\/p>\n Cost:<\/strong> From several to several hundred pounds per year, depending on the domain extension ( [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_blurb title=”Tip:” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||fa||900″ icon_placement=”left” image_icon_width=”82px” content_max_width=”100%” icon_placement_tablet=”left” icon_placement_phone=”top” icon_placement_last_edited=”on|phone” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#5B665C” background_layout=”dark” custom_margin=”40px||40px||true|false” custom_padding=”40px|40px|40px|40px|true|true” custom_padding_tablet=”40px|40px|40px|40px|true|true” custom_padding_phone=”40px|20px|40px|20px|true|true” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” animation=”off” text_orientation_tablet=”” text_orientation_phone=”center” text_orientation_last_edited=”on|phone” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n If your website is mainly targeted at Polish clients, it is better to choose a .pl domain. For clients in the United Kingdom, .co.uk will be more appropriate. Domain geolocation can significantly impact SEO and search engine visibility.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Hosting is a service that allows you to store your website\u2019s files on a server and make them accessible online. In simple terms \u2013 it is the space where your website\u2019s files, databases, and resources are stored.<\/p>\n Every website requires both a domain (address) and hosting (storage space).<\/p>\n Here are some types of hosting services (even those you might not need now but should recognise by name):<\/p>\n Yes, server location impacts website speed. If your users are primarily in the UK, it\u2019s advisable to choose hosting with servers located in the UK or Europe.<\/p>\n Google also considers server location when ranking websites, so choosing a UK-based server can boost local SEO.<\/p>\n (with brief descriptions):<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_blurb title=”The simplest option:” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||fa||400″ icon_placement=”left” image_icon_width=”82px” content_max_width=”100%” icon_placement_tablet=”left” icon_placement_phone=”top” icon_placement_last_edited=”on|phone” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#5B665C” background_layout=”dark” custom_margin=”40px||40px||true|false” custom_padding=”40px|40px|40px|40px|true|true” custom_padding_tablet=”40px|40px|40px|40px|true|true” custom_padding_phone=”40px|20px|40px|20px|true|true” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” animation=”off” text_orientation_tablet=”” text_orientation_phone=”center” text_orientation_last_edited=”on|phone” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Most providers offer one-click WordPress installation. Look for “One-Click CMS” offers.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Hosting packages vary, so it\u2019s best to compare offers directly on the providers\u2019 websites.<\/p>\n Currently, the most budget-friendly option for learning and testing is OVH\u2019s Personal Hosting. It’s affordable and allows easy upgrades as your needs grow.<\/p>\n If you prefer not to worry about domains, hosting, and installations, ready-made platforms offer all-in-one solutions:<\/p>\n Note:<\/strong> Prices may vary depending on region and current promotions. It is recommended to check the latest rates directly on the official websites of each provider.<\/p>\n Choosing the right platform depends on your website\u2019s purpose and your expectations.<\/p>\n Among website builders, Wix<\/strong> stands out as the most popular solution for simple websites \u2013 offering an intuitive interface, a wide range of templates, and easy editing without coding skills.<\/p>\n If your goal is to create an online store, Shopify<\/strong> remains the clear leader. It offers ready-to-use sales solutions, integration with payment systems, and excellent product management tools, making it the preferred choice for small and medium-sized online shops.<\/p>\n Both Wix and Shopify provide users with ready-made, simplified systems that eliminate the need for server management or additional software installation, making them perfect choices for those taking their first steps in the world of websites.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_blurb title=”Wix & Shopify” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||fa||900″ icon_placement=”left” image_icon_width=”82px” content_max_width=”100%” icon_placement_tablet=”left” icon_placement_phone=”top” icon_placement_last_edited=”on|phone” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#5B665C” background_layout=”dark” custom_margin=”40px||40px||true|false” custom_padding=”40px|40px|40px|40px|true|true” custom_padding_tablet=”40px|40px|40px|40px|true|true” custom_padding_phone=”40px|20px|40px|20px|true|true” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” animation=”off” text_orientation_tablet=”” text_orientation_phone=”center” text_orientation_last_edited=”on|phone” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Both Wix<\/strong> and Shopify<\/strong> offer users ready-made, simplified systems that eliminate the need to manage servers or install additional software, making them an excellent choice for those taking their first steps in the world of website creation.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n If you want full control over your website, consider using a CMS. If you are just starting, WordPress<\/strong> is the best option \u2013 flexible, beginner-friendly, and scalable as your needs grow.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_blurb title=”CMS – WordPress” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||divi||400″ icon_placement=”left” image_icon_width=”82px” content_max_width=”100%” icon_placement_tablet=”left” icon_placement_phone=”top” icon_placement_last_edited=”on|phone” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#5B665C” background_layout=”dark” custom_margin=”40px||40px||true|false” custom_padding=”40px|40px|40px|40px|true|true” custom_padding_tablet=”40px|40px|40px|40px|true|true” custom_padding_phone=”40px|20px|40px|20px|true|true” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” animation=”off” text_orientation_tablet=”” text_orientation_phone=”center” text_orientation_last_edited=”on|phone” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Choosing a CMS is a smart option if you want full control over your website and wish to avoid monthly fees associated with ready-made platforms.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Every website needs visually appealing graphics \u2013 from logos and homepage images to blog post illustrations and UI (User Interface) elements. Creating aesthetic graphics does not require expensive software like Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator \u2013 there are many free tools that can successfully replace paid solutions.<\/p>\n Here are three popular graphic design programmes that can help you create visuals for your website:<\/p>\n An intuitive tool for everyone and everything<\/p>\n Who is it for?<\/strong> Check out Canva<\/a><\/p>\n A free alternative to Photoshop<\/p>\n Who is it for?<\/strong>\n
https:\/\/<\/code> (important for website security, required for e-commerce and online payments) or http:\/\/<\/code> \u2013 defines the method of data transfer (HTTPS is more secure).<\/li>\nwww.<\/code> \u2013 can be customised, e.g., blog.mywebsite.co.uk<\/code>.<\/li>\nmywebsite<\/code>.<\/li>\n.com<\/code>, .co.uk<\/code>, .pl<\/code>, indicating the type or location of the domain.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nWhere to check domain availability and purchase it?<\/h4>\n
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.pl<\/code>, .com<\/code>, .co.uk<\/code>).<\/p>\n2. Hosting \u2013 Your Website\u2019s Home<\/h2>\n
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Does server location matter?<\/h3>\n
Top Hosting Providers in the UK<\/h3>\n
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From \u00a31\/month for the first year; then \u00a39\/month.<\/em><\/li>\n
From \u00a32.49\/month (3-year commitment).<\/em><\/li>\n
From \u00a32.99\/month (1-year commitment).<\/em><\/li>\n
From \u00a31.99\/month.<\/em><\/li>\n
Basic plan from \u00a32.95\/month (3-year commitment).<\/em><\/li>\n
WordPress Basic plan from \u00a31.99\/month.<\/em><\/li>\n
Basic plan from \u00a33.99\/month (1-year commitment).<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\nWhere to buy hosting?<\/h3>\n
3. Ready-Made Solutions for Beginners<\/h2>\n
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Starting from approximately $4.50 per month.<\/em><\/li>\n
Starting from $12 per month.<\/em><\/li>\n
Starting from $29 per month.<\/em><\/li>\n
Starting from $12 per month.<\/em><\/li>\n
Starting from $6 per month.<\/em><\/li>\n
Starting from $29.95 per month.<\/em><\/li>\n
Starting from $10 per month.<\/em><\/li>\n
Starting from $12.80 per month.<\/em><\/li>\n
Starting from $9.99 per month.<\/em><\/li>\n
Starting from $14 per month.<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\nAdvantages:<\/h3>\n
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Disadvantages:<\/h3>\n
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Wix & Shopify<\/h3>\n
4. CMS \u2013 Content Management System<\/h2>\n
A CMS allows you to manage, edit, and expand your website easily without deep technical knowledge.<\/p>\nTop CMSs on the Market:<\/h3>\n
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Why Choose WordPress?<\/h3>\n
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5. Basic Free Graphic Design Tools<\/h2>\n
Canva<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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\nCanva is a great option for those with no experience in graphic design who want to quickly and easily create visually appealing materials for websites or social media.<\/p>\nGIMP<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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\nGIMP is a great choice for those who need more advanced photo editing and graphic design features but do not want to pay for Photoshop. It is not as intuitive as Canva but offers greater control over editing.<\/p>\n