How to Build a WordPress Website in 2024? Step By Step

Choosing Your Hosting Provider

When you begin your WordPress journey, selecting the right hosting provider is vital for your website's success. They host a space for your website on the webserver to make it viewable online. Understanding the different types of hosting services and their key factors will help you choose better.

Types of Hosting

You may choose from a variety of hosting options based on their pros and cons. For beginners, shared hosting is a viable plan where many sites share resources on one server. For bigger businesses, Virtual Private Server (VPS) offers dedicated resources on one server. It balances affordability and performance for growing sites with moderate traffic.

Dedicated hosting provides the entire server to high-traffic websites, with better performance, security, and customization. However, it is quite costly. WordPress Managed Hosting, in contrast, optimizes server settings and provides WordPress-specific support. It simplifies website management with automatic updates, improved security, and better performance.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Hosting Provider

Begin by checking the uptime, server setup, and performance stats of the host server. Always consider future growth and the provider's ability to handle increased traffic. A reliable hosting provider offers responsive support for technical issues and server maintenance. They also use malware detection, firewalls, SSL certificates, and data encryption. Compare plans based on features to find the best fit for your budget and needs.

Selecting a Domain Name

Your domain name is not just a web address; it is your brand's digital identity and the entry point to your online world. Finding a catchy domain name is essential for credibility, traffic, and brand recognition. We have gathered some useful tips for you.

Tips for Choosing an Effective Domain Name

Select a short, easy-to-spell domain name after your brand, its products or services. Avoid using hyphens (dashes) and numbers as it gets harder to type and remember. Use relevant keywords to boost search engine visibility and allow for future expansion into new markets. Check available domain names on social media and online directories for consistent branding.

Importance of Domain Name for Branding

Your domain name is the foundation of your brand's online identity. It supports marketing, boosts recognition and builds trust around your brand. A professional domain name instills confidence in visitors, showing your website is legitimate.

Setting Up Your WordPress Site

Installing WordPress

There are two methods to install WordPress - via cPanel or auto-installer scripts. For cPanel, users need to log in to their web hosting account. Then they should find the "WordPress Installer" icon, select WordPress for installation, enter site details, and click "Install."

With auto-installer scripts, users need to access the script, choose WordPress from the menu and enter site details. Then they confirm the settings and proceed with the installation. After the installation, users receive their WordPress login details.

Navigating the WordPress Dashboard

The dashboard provides access to various tools and features that allow users to manage their websites. The main sections of the dashboard include the Dashboard Overview, Posts and Pages, Themes, Customizer, and Plugins.

The Dashboard Overview provides site updates and access to tools. The Posts and Pages sections allow users to create and manage content. Themes enable users to change their site's design while Customizer allows users to adjust theme settings. Plugins, on the other hand, add functionality to the site (read below to find more about plugins).

Choosing and Installing a Theme

When selecting and customizing a theme for a website on WordPress choose a theme that matches the style and needs of the site. Install it by uploading or searching for it in the dashboard. You may further customize it using the WordPress Customizer.

Plugins

Plugins can be used to enhance the features of a website. There are four types of website plugins: SEO, security, performance, and functionality plugins. SEO plugins such as Yoast SEO can help improve search engine visibility. Security plugins such as Wordfence Security can protect your website from threats. Performance plugins such as WP Rocket can boost site speed. Functionality plugins such as Contact Form 7 and NextGEN Gallery can add features like contact forms and galleries.

Creating Content and Customizing Your Site

There are a few things to note when creating unique content for your WordPress website.

Creating Pages and Posts

Pages are static content, while posts are dynamic entries displayed in the blog or news feed. The Gutenberg Editor is a tool accessible in the dashboard's "Pages" or "Posts" section. It is easy to use and has blocks for text, images, videos, and other elements. The editor lets you customize content without coding and see real-time changes, making it ideal for beginners.

Customizing Your Website’s Layout

Customize a website's layout and navigation to improve the user experience. Use "widgets," such as search bars or recent posts, and "Menus," to create custom navigation links to pages, or posts. Both features can be accessed through the "Appearance" section in the dashboard.

Enhancing Visual Appeal

To attract and retain visitors, it is important to boost your website's visual appeal. Add multimedia such as images, videos, and infographics using the Gutenberg editor and optimize them for the web. Using WordPress tools can also help create engaging content and a user-friendly layout.

Launching Your Website

Optimize your WordPress website for performance, visibility, and usability before launching. Perform keyword research, tweak meta tags, and install Yoast SEO or Rank Math for search engine optimization (SEO). 

Optimize pictures and choose a lightweight theme. This improves your site’s loading speed and responsiveness across platforms. Once ready, promote your site with content, email, SEO, and social media.

WordPress Website Maintenance

Site security and stability require regular maintenance. Regularly update the WordPress core, themes, and plugins to resolve bugs and vulnerabilities. 

Use dependable plugins like UpdraftPlus for automatic updates and backups. They ensure an emergency recovery. We also suggest testing backups regularly. 

FAQs

Do I need coding knowledge to build a WordPress website?

No, you do not need coding knowledge to build a WordPress website. Use the Gutenberg editor and WordPress interface for content creation and customization.

How much does it cost to build a WordPress website in 2024?

The cost varies based on factors like hosting fees, domain registration, themes, plugins, and services. Custom design and functionality can cost more, while basic hosting costs a few dollars per month.

Can I convert my existing website to WordPress?

Yes, you can convert an existing website to WordPress with migration tools. Depending on the complexity, elements may need modification to fit WordPress.

How do I keep my WordPress site secure?

Update WordPress, themes, and plugins, use strong passwords; and install Wordfence or Sucuri. Enable SSL encryption and install measures like two-factor authentication and regular malware scans.

What should I do if I need help with my WordPress site?

Ask your hosting provider for technical support, and check the WordPress documentation and forums. For customized solutions, hire a developer or designer, or join online communities for advice.

Conclusion

In conclusion, WordPress will be the top website builder in 2024, benefiting both individuals and businesses. Whether starting a new venture or revamping an existing site, WordPress equips you with the tools to succeed online.

DigiPix offers WordPress development and digital marketing services. Contact us for a free consultation or website audit.