Going Online: Getting Started

So you've decided to take a chance with the online world. There are many reasons for people to have a website, blog, video channel, or social networking page.

Perhaps you're an individual with something to say or something to sell. Perhaps you own a local business or a company with the goal of reaching a wider audience and/or client/customer base. Maybe you're with a non-profit organization seeking to promote your noble cause.

Whatever the reason, if it involves reaching more people, then building an online presence is a good idea.

The next question to ask is how to go about it? We're going to assume that you already own a computer.

When it comes to Internet access, we can narrow the options down for you.

While dial-up is generally cheap, it isn't sufficient for today's needs. If you live in the sticks, you can still get high speed Internet.

DSL access has increased for rural areas, and parts of the country side in the United States. If mobile broadband through a provider such as Sprint, AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile or anyone else isn't available in your area, then satellite would be your best option.

If you live in a city, then cable Internet is likely available and would be the most reliable option. If you're fortunate enough to live in an area that has Google Fiber, take advantage of it.

If you're a business or non-profit, check your provider for business oriented options.

With Internet access out of the way, the next decision would be the appropriate venue.

Is web hosting needed? A blog? Social networking page?

For now, focus on paying as little money as possible. If your audience is large enough  then a dedicated website would work wonders.

To answer the question of what's appropriate in terms of starting, it depends on what you're doing.

If you'll be doing a lot of videos, you'll want a streaming video channel. If you'll be doing plenty of writing, you may want to start a blog. If you'll simply be sharing pictures and making announcements, a social networking page would be your best bet.

This isn't to say that doing all the above is a bad idea. However, it's better to focus on one thing and expand over time.

If you can, keep your wallet in your pocket and put away.

At this point, the only money thay should be spent besides ISP subscriptions would be a top level domain name, which will be covered in the next article.

For now, write out what you wish to accomplish online in terms of reaching a wider audience.