4. Once the WordPress program is successfully downloaded install it following the instructions contained in the README file which you will find in the downloaded package.
5. WordPress should now be installed and configured on your server. Log in via the default user name and the random password that has been provided.
6. Next begin customizing the templates, change links, add/edit categories, and set up your preferences.
7. You can start blogging immediately by going to the section marked ‘Post'. If you want to edit or delete the default post use the 'Edit' button. Once you set up a blog all you need to do is add to it on a schedule that suits you.
If you prefer a short-cut you can set up your blog using a user-friendly interface like the one at Blogger.com. This is by far the easiest, hassle-free way to get your own blog. It only takes about five or ten minutes and you can start posting right away. Here are instructions for setting up a blog via Blogger.com.
1. Access the Blogger site at:
http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/XJ&sdn=weblogs&zu=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2F or www.blogger.com.
2. Next click the 'sign-up now' link or 'start now' button. At this point you will be directed to the registration page.
3. Once the ‘Create a Blogger Account' page is reached you must supply a username, your first and last name, your email address and a password. Type your password twice for security verification and read the Terms and Conditions of Blogger.
Next check the box to accept the terms and click on the 'Sign Up' button.
4. Register with a user name and password and you will reach the 'Create a New Blog' page.
5. Now you can create a title and description for your blog. If nothing springs to mind immediately you can always come back later after doing some thinking. Now you can decide whether you would prefer your blog to be private (available only to those with whom you decide to share the URL or public -which means it is listed on the 'recently updated' list by Blogger and its affiliates. The choice is yours when you set up a blog.
6. You will also be asked if you wish to host your blog at BlogSpot (Blogger.com's free, ad-supported hosting service) or use your personal server via FTP (File Transfer Protocol).
If you don’t have your own web host/server, you choose the first option. There is the opportunity to upgrade to an ad-free hosting service too via an affordable fee.
7. If you choose to host via BlogSpot to set up a blog you can do so via your blog title or your name as your address on the Web. This address will be used when visiting or sharing your blog. Read the Terms and Conditions of BlogSpot and check the box indicating acceptance. Click 'Next' and proceed with the last step.
8. Where you have a web host of your own you will need to provide your FTP information. Tip: e-mail your web hosting company and ask them.
9. Now that your blog is configured you may choose an eye-catching template for it. Browse the available templates to experiment with different looks to set up a look for your blog that mirrors your site.
10. Afterwards you will be directed to the administration page of your blog. Here you will be able to set up a blog entry!
