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[tinystepsforward]

autocrattic (more matt shenanigans, not tumblr this time)

I am almost definitely not the right person for this writeup, but I'm closer than most people on here, so here goes! This is all open-source tech drama, and I take my time laying out the context, but the short version is: Matt tried to extort another company, who immediately posted receipts, and now he's refusing to log off again. The long version is... long.

If you don't need software context, scroll down/find the "ok tony that's enough. tell me what's actually happening" heading, or just go read the pink sections. Or look at this PDF.

the background

So. Matt's original Good Idea was starting WordPress with fellow developer Mike Little in 2003, which is free and open-source software (FOSS) that was originally just for blogging, but now powers lots of websites that do other things. In particular, Automattic acquired WooCommerce a long time ago, which is free online store software you can run on WordPress.

FOSS is... interesting. It's a world that ultimately is powered by people who believe deeply that information and resources should be free, but often have massive blind spots (for example, Wikipedia's consistently had issues with bias, since no amount of "anyone can edit" will overcome systemic bias in terms of who has time to edit or is not going to be driven away by the existing contributor culture). As with anything else that people spend thousands of hours doing online, there's drama. As with anything else that's technically free but can be monetized, there are:

Heaps of companies and solo developers who profit off WordPress themes, plugins, hosting, and other services;

Conflicts between volunteer contributors and for-profit contributors;

Annoying founders who get way too much credit for everything the project has become.

the WordPress ecosystem

A project as heavily used as WordPress (some double-digit percentage of the Internet uses WP. I refuse to believe it's the 43% that Matt claims it is, but it's a pretty large chunk) can't survive just on the spare hours of volunteers, especially in an increasingly monetised world where its users demand functional software, are less and less tech or FOSS literate, and its contributors have no fucking time to build things for that userbase.

Matt runs Automattic, which is a privately-traded, for-profit company. The free software is run by the WordPress Foundation, which is technically completely separate (wordpress.org). The main products Automattic offers are WordPress-related: WordPress.com, a host which was designed to be beginner-friendly; Jetpack, a suite of plugins which extend WordPress in a whole bunch of ways that may or may not make sense as one big product; WooCommerce, which I've already mentioned. There's also WordPress VIP, which is the fancy bespoke five-digit-plus option for enterprise customers. And there's Tumblr, if Matt ever succeeds in putting it on WordPress. (Every Tumblr or WordPress dev I know thinks that's fucking ridiculous and impossible. Automattic's hiring for it anyway.)

Automattic devotes a chunk of its employees toward developing Core, which is what people in the WordPress space call WordPress.org, the free software. This is part of an initiative called Five for the Future — 5% of your company's profits off WordPress should go back into making the project better. Many other companies don't do this.

There are lots of other companies in the space. GoDaddy, for example, barely gives back in any way (and also sucks). WP Engine is the company this drama is about. They don't really contribute to Core. They offer relatively expensive WordPress hosting, as well as providing a series of other WordPress-related products like LocalWP (local site development software), Advanced Custom Fields (the easiest way to set up advanced taxonomies and other fields when making new types of posts. If you don't know what this means don't worry about it), etc.

Anyway. Lots of strong personalities. Lots of for-profit companies. Lots of them getting invested in, or bought by, private equity firms.

Matt being Matt, tech being tech

As was said repeatedly when Matt was flipping out about Tumblr, all of the stuff happening at Automattic is pretty normal tech company behaviour. Shit gets worse. People get less for their money. WordPress.com used to be a really good place for people starting out with a website who didn't need "real" WordPress — for $48 a year on the Personal plan, you had really limited features (no plugins or other customisable extensions), but you had a simple website with good SEO that was pretty secure, relatively easy to use, and 24-hour access to Happiness Engineers (HEs for short. Bad job title. This was my job) who could walk you through everything no matter how bad at tech you were. Then Personal plan users got moved from chat to emails only. Emails started being responded to by contractors who didn't know as much as HEs did and certainly didn't get paid half as well. Then came AI, and the mandate for HEs to try to upsell everyone things they didn't necessarily need. (This is the point at which I quit.)

But as was said then as well, most tech CEOs don't publicly get into this kind of shitfight with their users. They're horrid tyrants, but they don't do it this publicly.

ok tony that's enough. tell me what's actually happening

WordCamp US, one of the biggest WordPress industry events of the year, is the backdrop for all this. It just finished.

There are.... a lot of posts by Matt across multiple platforms because, as always, he can't log off. But here's the broad strokes.

Sep 17

Matt publishes a wanky blog post about companies that profit off open source without giving back. It targets a specific company, WP Engine.

Compare the Five For the Future pages from Automattic and WP Engine, two companies that are roughly the same size with revenue in the ballpark of half a billion. These pledges are just a proxy and aren’t perfectly accurate, but as I write this, Automattic has 3,786 hours per week (not even counting me!), and WP Engine has 47 hours. WP Engine has good people, some of whom are listed on that page, but the company is controlled by Silver Lake, a private equity firm with $102 billion in assets under management. Silver Lake doesn’t give a dang about your Open Source ideals. It just wants a return on capital. So it’s at this point that I ask everyone in the WordPress community to vote with your wallet. Who are you giving your money to? Someone who’s going to nourish the ecosystem, or someone who’s going to frack every bit of value out of it until it withers?

(It's worth noting here that Automattic is funded in part by BlackRock, who Wikipedia calls "the world's largest asset manager".)

Sep 20 (WCUS final day)

WP Engine puts out a blog post detailing their contributions to WordPress.

Matt devotes his keynote/closing speech to slamming WP Engine.

He also implies people inside WP Engine are sending him information.

For the people sending me stuff from inside companies, please do not do it on your work device. Use a personal phone, Signal with disappearing messages, etc. I have a bunch of journalists happy to connect you with as well. #wcus — Twitter I know private equity and investors can be brutal (read the book Barbarians at the Gate). Please let me know if any employee faces firing or retaliation for speaking up about their company's participation (or lack thereof) in WordPress. We'll make sure it's a big public deal and that you get support. — Tumblr

Matt also puts out an offer live at WordCamp US:

“If anyone of you gets in trouble for speaking up in favor of WordPress and/or open source, reach out to me. I’ll do my best to help you find a new job.” — source tweet, RTed by Matt

He also puts up a poll asking the community if WP Engine should be allowed back at WordCamps.

Sep 21

Matt writes a blog post on the WordPress.org blog (the official project blog!): WP Engine is not WordPress.

He opens this blog post by claiming his mom was confused and thought WP Engine was official.

The blog post goes on about how WP Engine disabled post revisions (which is a pretty normal thing to do when you need to free up some resources), therefore being not "real" WordPress. (As I said earlier, WordPress.com disables most features for Personal and Premium plans. Or whatever those plans are called, they've been renamed like 12 times in the last few years. But that's a different complaint.)

Sep 22: More bullshit on Twitter. Matt makes a Reddit post on r/Wordpress about WP Engine that promptly gets deleted. Writeups start to come out:

Search Engine Journal: WordPress Co-Founder Mullenweg Sparks Backlash

TechCrunch: Matt Mullenweg calls WP Engine a ‘cancer to WordPress’ and urges community to switch providers

Sep 23 onward

Okay, time zones mean I can't effectively sequence the rest of this.

Matt defends himself on Reddit, casually mentioning that WP Engine is now suing him.

Also here's a decent writeup from someone involved with the community that may be of interest.

WP Engine drops the full PDF of their cease and desist, which includes screenshots of Matt apparently threatening them via text.

Twitter link | Direct PDF link

This PDF includes some truly fucked texts where Matt appears to be trying to get WP Engine to pay him money unless they want him to tell his audience at WCUS that they're evil.

Matt, after saying he's been sued and can't talk about it, hosts a Twitter Space and talks about it for a couple hours.

He also continues to post on Reddit, Twitter, and on the Core contributor Slack.

Here's a comment where he says WP Engine could have avoided this by paying Automattic 8% of their revenue.

Another, 20 hours ago, where he says he's being downvoted by "trolls, probably WPE employees"

At some point, Matt updates the WordPress Foundation trademark policy. I am 90% sure this was him — it's not legalese and makes no fucking sense to single out WP Engine.

Old text: The abbreviation “WP” is not covered by the WordPress trademarks and you are free to use it in any way you see fit. New text: The abbreviation “WP” is not covered by the WordPress trademarks, but please don’t use it in a way that confuses people. For example, many people think WP Engine is “WordPress Engine” and officially associated with WordPress, which it’s not. They have never once even donated to the WordPress Foundation, despite making billions of revenue on top of WordPress.

Sep 25: Automattic puts up their own legal response.

anyway this fucking sucks

This is bigger than anything Matt's done before. I'm so worried about my friends who're still there. The internal ramifications have... been not great so far, including that Matt's naturally being extra gung-ho about "you're either for me or against me and if you're against me then don't bother working your two weeks".

Despite everything, I like WordPress. (If you dig into this, you'll see plenty of people commenting about blocks or Gutenberg or React other things they hate. Unlike many of the old FOSSheads, I actually also think Gutenberg/the block editor was a good idea, even if it was poorly implemented.)

I think that the original mission — to make it so anyone can spin up a website that's easy enough to use and blog with — is a good thing. I think, despite all the ways being part of FOSS communities since my early teens has led to all kinds of racist, homophobic and sexual harm for me and for many other people, that free and open-source software is important.

So many people were already burning out of the project. Matt has been doing this for so long that those with long memories can recite all the ways he's wrecked shit back a decade or more. Most of us are exhausted and need to make money to live. The world is worse than it ever was.

Social media sucks worse and worse, and this was a world in which people missed old webrings, old blogs, RSS readers, the world where you curated your own whimsical, unpaid corner of the Internet. I started actually actively using my own WordPress blog this year, and I've really enjoyed it.

And people don't want to deal with any of this.

The thing is, Matt's right about one thing: capital is ruining free open-source software. What he's wrong about is everything else: the idea that WordPress.com isn't enshittifying (or confusing) at a much higher rate than WP Engine, the idea that WP Engine or Silver Lake are the only big players in the field, the notion that he's part of the solution and not part of the problem.

But he's started a battle where there are no winners but the lawyers who get paid to duke it out, and all the volunteers who've survived this long in an ecosystem increasingly dominated by big money are giving up and leaving.

Anyway if you got this far, consider donating to someone on gazafunds.com. It'll take much less time than reading this did.

[da12thkind]

Tumblr and The Old Internet Re-Awakens, An Opinion Essay

This is going to be a super long post about my thoughts on the current state of the internet, with a chunk of what I'm about to say having been stuff I've already said elsewhere on other sites. To save your dash, I'll be putting a READ MORE break.

The fact that Twitter and Reddit have basically been destroyed by their own hubris is both hilarious and sad. It's funny because "ha ha rich man's hubris" but also sad because this is very emblematic of the current direction many social media companies that have been at the top for too long are going.

Ever since the muskrat purchased Twitter, it was clear from the beginning that something seriously wrong had happened, with worse decisions to follow. Something I hadn't realized was just how extensive the ripple effects of this would be. Reddit is now being destroyed by their leader's desire for more and more money, as if they needed any more.

I've been having this conversation with my friends via Discord and with strangers on the Starmen dot net forums. The writing is on the walls. The internet is moving towards a future that caters to advertisers more than its users. If there's even the slightest hint of getting more money by screwing over users, the higher ups of a given site will be chomping at the bit.

Where does that leave us?

Well, with Reddit and Twitter both now in a state of complete and total self-destruction, albeit rather slowly, we have seen an influx of new and returning users. Fantastic! I love when an old place gets new life breathed into it.

That being said, I don't believe that Tumblr is the bastion of The Old Internet, far from it, and many of you would agree.

Instead, I think that the resurgence in Tumblr's popularity could be just the first step towards the return of The Old Internet. We have the power to go back to the days of making our own websites. Information on web design and web programming are available online for free, in addition to many places offering free hosting services for a basic website or blog that don't need many bells or whistles (just don't go to GoDaddy).

Tumblr, in my opinion, once you know how to use the advanced editing tools, can make for a great "Baby's First Web Blog." There are some users on here that have made GORGEOUS blogs that will absolutely blow you away.

What about peer-to-peer communications?

We've seen that Discord has been another victim to the plague that is internet gentrification. They've removed the discriminators for usernames, had a store put in, and so many other little changes that have consistently annoyed the end users.

That being said... Discord is not going to be falling apart anytime soon. It's still a fantastic way to connect with many people at once and have quick access to all your different communities.

However, you could make the case, and I certainly try to, that internet forums fulfill the same thing. It is true that forums for many topics have drifted into the void of internet history, but is that not simply the nature of the internet? Communities sprout up, thrive, have an internal way, break apart, and start anew. We've seen that with many Discord servers, albeit rather small ones.

I will still hold my ground that forums should be revitalized if we truly want to go back to the days of old.

What does the future hold?

I... don't know. Despite my vast horde of opinions, research, and second-hand accounts of what The Old Internet was like and how The Current Internet is becoming, I cannot say for absolute certainty that we will see a total collapse of these tech empires. At the very least, however, I do believe that they will become hollowed shells of their former selves.

I have yet to talk about YouTube and its history, and, to be quite frank with you all, I simply must avoid that topic for now. All I will say is that I implore my fellow content creators, specifically those that create Video On-Demand content for YouTube and TikTok, to look into creating your own websites to host your content in the event that something happens to these empires, too. If you don't have offline copies of your videos, do so when you can.

That will be it for now. Thank you for reading this essay. I love your faces. Stay safe.

[cindylouwho-2]

RECENT SEO & MARKETING NEWS FOR ECOMMERCE, AUGUST 2024

Hello, and welcome to my very last Marketing News update here on Tumblr.

After today, these reports will now be found at least twice a week on my Patreon, available to all paid members. See more about this change here on my website blog: https://www.cindylouwho2.com/blog/2024/8/12/a-new-way-to-get-ecommerce-news-and-help-welcome-to-my-patreon-page

Don't worry! I will still be posting some short pieces here on Tumblr (as well as some free pieces on my Patreon, plus longer posts on my website blog). However, the news updates and some other posts will be moving to Patreon permanently.

Please follow me there! https://www.patreon.com/CindyLouWho2

TOP NEWS & ARTICLES 

A US court ruled that Google is a monopoly, and has broken antitrust laws. This decision will be appealed, but in the meantime, could affect similar cases against large tech giants. 

Did you violate a Facebook policy? Meta is now offering a “training course” in lieu of having the page’s reach limited for Professional Mode users. 

Google Ads shown in Canada will have a 2.5% surcharge applied as of October 1, due to new Canadian tax laws.

SEO: GOOGLE & OTHER SEARCH ENGINES 

Search Engine Roundtable’s Google report for July is out; we’re still waiting for the next core update. 

SOCIAL MEDIA - All Aspects, By Site

Facebook (includes relevant general news from Meta)

Meta’s latest legal development: a $1.4 billion settlement with Texas over facial recognition and privacy.  

Instagram

Instagram is highlighting “Views” in its metrics in an attempt to get creators to focus on reach instead of follower numbers. 

Pinterest

Pinterest is testing outside ads on the site. The ad auction system would include revenue sharing. 

Reddit

Reddit confirmed that anyone who wants to use Reddit posts for AI training and other data collection will need to pay for them, just as Google and OpenAI did. 

Second quarter 2024 was great for Reddit, with revenue growth of 54%. Like almost every other platform, they are planning on using AI in their search results, perhaps to summarize content. 

Threads

Threads now claims over 200 million active users.

TikTok

TikTok is now adding group chats, which can include up to 32 people.

TikTok is being sued by the US Federal Trade Commission, for allowing children under 13 to sign up and have their data harvested. 

Twitter

Twitter seems to be working on the payments option Musk promised last year. Tweets by users in the EU will at least temporarily be pulled from the AI-training for “Grok”, in line with EU law.

CONTENT MARKETING (includes blogging, emails, and strategies) 

Email software Mad Mimi is shutting down as of August 30. Owner GoDaddy is hoping to move users to its GoDaddy Digital Marketing setup. 

Content ideas for September include National Dog Week. 

You can now post on Substack without having an actual newsletter, as the platform tries to become more like a social media site. 

As of November, Patreon memberships started in the iOS app will be subject to a 30% surcharge from Apple. Patreon is giving creators the ability to add that charge to the member's bill, or pay it themselves.

ONLINE ADVERTISING (EXCEPT INDIVIDUAL SOCIAL MEDIA AND ECOMMERCE SITES) 

Google worked with Meta to break the search engine’s rules on advertising to children through a loophole that showed ads for Instagram to YouTube viewers in the 13-17 year old demographic. Google says they have stopped the campaign, and that “We prohibit ads being personalized to people under-18, period”.

Google’s Performance Max ads now have new tools, including some with AI. 

Microsoft’s search and news advertising revenue was up 19% in the second quarter, a very good result for them. 

One of the interesting tidbits from the recent Google antitrust decision is that Amazon sells more advertising than either Google or Meta’s slice of retail ads. 

BUSINESS & CONSUMER TRENDS, STATS & REPORTS; SOCIOLOGY & PSYCHOLOGY, CUSTOMER SERVICE 

More than half of Gen Z claim to have bought items while spending time on social media in the past half year, higher than other generations. 

Shopify’s president claimed that Christmas shopping started in July on their millions of sites, with holiday decor and ornament sales doubling, and advent calendar sales going up a whopping 4,463%.

[christinafuego]

A New Beginning

Oh boy. I have not been on this website in probably over 10 years now. Anyone who is old enough to remember early 2010's internet knows this website. If you're too young to remember, you're probably too young to be absorbing my art. I've long thought about having a blog hosted directly on my website (www.christinafuego.com), however GoDaddy doesn't seem to have the customization settings that they have here. Who even knows if anyone will read this. Tumblr is dead right? And besides, it would be rather narcissistic of me to think anyone dare give a fuck what I have to say.

Being back on here after so many years is comforting to me. 15 years ago a 9 year old Christina would be so fucking proud to see herself at 23 writing this from her own apartment, sitting inches away from her own home recording studio!!! Also typing this on a Macbook laptop.. the ultimate status symbol in my young eyes. (as well as the iPhone of course).

I must have the worst case of imposter syndrome ever. At least 3 times a week I stare around my studio apartment and look in my dresser mirror. I cannot believe there is a grown woman staring back at me in the mirror. Something nobody tells you about getting into your early 20s is that you go through what I am going to call "second puberty". Second puberty started for me at 22, when I first got in the place I am living in now. Basically I am set back to the same level of emotional instability and horniness as being 13. Only this time around being actually sexually active and having more life experience (ie experiencing actual nervous breakdown + years of untreated mental illness which does not even compare to any gripes I may have had from 11-13.)

I'm chalking this up to being the new bitch on the block in regards to this neighborhood I moved to. I moved from a different state, back to a borough of my home city that I have no ties to. I know nobody here. At first, I worked two part time jobs to pay rent, while also releasing multiple singles with no marketing budget. So they're effectively invisible for now. I ended up getting a good enough paying full time job where I can work only one job, however the corporate world is definitely not for me. The work week drains me and I am putting my all into making time for creative and promotional endeavors. At least I have a little money to invest in this shit now??? Where there is a will there is a way and I am a stubborn little bitch. I've got a track record to prove.

I am declaring now that this blog is gonna be 100% raw and unfiltered Christina. I'll be the first to admit it is very hard for me to hop in front of my phone and spout all this off to a camera and put it on TikTok... that's what they want music artists like myself to be now... TikTokers. I am not a TikToker. I am a starving artist who posts on social media only because I have to. In reality I am a socially awkward shy girl who sits in her room writing songs and hiding from the world.

I am hoping to use this to sort of live journal my career and life trials and tribulations.

Lately I feel like I am living in a different decade, century even. Just like everyone else nowadays, I miss the early 2000s. The 2000s period. That perfect sweet spot where we did have computers, but social media and smartphones did not completely overrun our society. People spoke face to face, and they made eye contact when speaking to you. If they wanted to "surf the net", they had to go home and wait 15 minutes for the computer to boot up. I'm tired of driving into Manhattan and seeing people wandering into traffic looking at their phone. I hope everyone who does that gets ran over.

I'm going off on a rant now. What I really mean to say is the current state of our world feels so overwhelming to me that I cannot even force myself to be excited for the future, that includes my own. Since about 2022, I have hardly absorbed any NEW media. For me, it's been about discovering old shit that's only new to me cause I'm actually a fucking baby.

Why does it feel like the color has been drained out of our world over the last 20 years? Why is minimalism even a thing? When did the music industry (THE HIPHOP INDUSTRY) become any and every loser with 10k+ followers dropping songs out of nowhere? I am the youngest old head you will probably ever meet. It does bug me that none of those people have a knowledge of the history of this genre, or a passion for the craft. Does it make me sick? Yes. Do I feel envy? Hell no. I believe in myself and my talents and much like Plankton plotting on how to get Krabs' secret formula, I am plotting on how to crack the code and the algorithm to make me a fucking mega star.

That's enough ranting for now. Maybe check out my other social media pages and website if you give a shit? Also follow me on here as well, anything helps!

-A girl writing raps in her room

[shinescriptdigitalmarketing]

Top Web Hosting Companies in India 2025

According to the data, around 1.3 billion people are predicted to access the internet in 2025 via smartphone or PC. This means that almost every second individual has access to the internet. Hence, many businesses utilize this medium to run their online businesses. To store data and files, all websites have to be hosted to be accessible on the internet by the web hosting server. With the involvement of web hosting providers in India, you can get a reliable server. Through this blog, we have gathered information about the top web hosting companies in India and their premium features.

Best Web Hosting Companies in India 2025

Here is the list of the top 5 web hosting companies in India so you can make the right decision:

1.Namecheap:

Renowned as the leading web hosting company in India, Namecheap is well-known for its reliable and budget-friendly web hosting service in India for any size of business. Considering the different requirements of different companies, this web hosting provider has a wide range of hosting plans that meet every company’s requirements.

Prime Features:

Easy-to-use

Budget-friendly security

Scalable

2.Hostinger India:

Hostinger India is a trusted web hosting company that has gained remarkable popularity recently among startups and small businesses. With the utilization of the amazing services of this web host, you will get access to a free domain name “WHOIS protection”. Also, using this web host, you will get complete protection for your website to secure it from several cyber threats. This is the perfect solution for those businesses who have a small budget.

Key Features:

Affordable

Beginner-friendly setup

High performance

3. Miles Web:

Recognized as one of the best web hosting companies in India, Miles Web has been delivering premium services for the past 12 years. With a client base of more than 50,000, this company has a wide range of offers, including shared, VPS, dedicated, and cloud hosting. Regardless of your business size, this company caters to all websites of different sizes.

Main Features:

Data centers all over the world

Best security services

Incredible reliability

24/7 customer support

Pocket-friendly options

Freebies to get you started

4. A2 Hosting:

A2 Hosting is well-known for its fast shared hosting plans. The options available by this web hosting company are cPanel hosting, VPS hosting, and many more. With this affordable web hosting service, you can get a wide range of web hosting plans that can cater to businesses of all sizes. The data centers of this company are located in the EU, the US, and regions of Asia.

Key Features:

Turbocharge your website

Free migration of websites

Exclusive customer support named “Guru”

5.GoDaddy:

Based in the US, GoDaddy is a well-established web hosting company that is one of the prominent market players in India. Established in the 90s in the United States, this company has built a strong client base all over the world. With its user-friendly platform and comprehensive tools, clients can easily set up and manage their websites with this web hosting company.

Prime Features:

Outstanding customer support 24/7

Domain registration services

Website Builder

Enhance performance and improve accessibility

These are a few web hosting providers in India that can help you create and manage your websites easily.

[direct-actions]

Liberate the Internet -- Levels of Control

I've been thinking a lot about the way the internet has shrunk to just a few major platforms that can boost or silence us at a moment's notice.

I wanted to make a post talking about different types of platforms and the ways that they control what we see or say.

(disclaimer: I'm not an expert on this and am trying to start a conversation, so if you have more information or corrections please reblog and add / put in the comments / message me)

I'm not saying everyone needs to become experts on self-hosting (I don't know too much about it myself). There are options for people at all levels. So let's take a look.

Algorithms and Rules

This is your TikToks and your Facebooks. Here, all it takes is the algorithm being tweaked to suppress keywords or accounts and suddenly your content isn't being seen.

The pros here of course is that when you're not actively being suppressed, you have a much higher chance at reaching new people vs other options.

Moderated Spaces

Today, these platforms are generally separated into individual communities (think, MightyNetworks/Circle, Discord, forums, etc.). Reach is limited and niche, and content moderation is generally done by human beings instead of algorithms (with some exceptions).

The pros in these spaces are that you have stronger connections to people who will see your content, but your reach is narrower. As a community you get to decide what happens inside your group, but with the platform itself still in control, they could easily shut down an entire community if they wanted to.

Website Builders / Hosting

This is your Wordpress blogs, Blogger, and even Neocities, etc. Here, the website is mostly yours. You get to decide what's on it. Your content isn't being directly moderated or censored. But you're still part of a larger platform that helps connect / promote your site to others.

Pros here are of course you have MUCH more leeway in what you can post / share. Cons are that there is a lot less chance compared to some others for your website content to reach people. Also, your blog / site can in theory be disabled by the host platform if they decided to.

There's also using something like GoDaddy or IONOS or some other website hosting thing. There's a lot of variety and crossover in this area but basically the website belongs to you more than say a Wordpress Blog would. In theory the web host could decide to drop you but I think that's pretty rare.

Self-Hosting

This is now territory I'm not very familiar with but you could in theory fully host your own stuff making it harder for anyone to shut you down. There's even creating your own internet networks but that's way beyond me. (Really cool tho, I'd love to learn.)

Email Lists

This one is very different but I think really important. Email lists / mailing lists are not just for businesses wanting to promote their latest sale or latest online course. This is one of the most DIRECT ways you can have access to your followers if they're interested in what you have to say. No matter what happens to any platform, if you have their emails you will likely retain the ability to contact them (unless email is somehow destroyed but at that point I think we'll be having very different conversations)

(This could even be physical addresses or an old-school mailing list)

---

I bring this up because I'm really interested in moving toward a more autonomous and networked internet, and I think it's going to be necessary in the years to come.

Look up digital gardens for an example.

And if you're hoping to create / share anything online, consider diversifying the kinds of platforms you use, and pushing followers to places where you have more control over what you can share, and getting their emails.

[topitservices]

Best E-commerce SSL Certificate 2024

Introduction to SSL Certificates

SSL, or Secure Sockets Layer, certificates are small data files that encrypt data transmitted between a web server and a browser. When installed on a web server, they activate the padlock and the HTTPS protocol, ensuring that all data passed between the web server and browser remains private and secure.

Why SSL Certificates are Essential for E-commerce

Why do you need an SSL certificate for your e-commerce website? Imagine walking into a store and feeling unsafe about handing over your credit card. You’d probably leave, right? The same goes for online shopping. SSL certificates build trust, protect sensitive information, and are crucial for PCI compliance, which is necessary if you accept credit card payments.

Types of SSL Certificates

There are several types of SSL certificates, each serving different purposes:

Domain Validated (DV) SSL

DV SSL certificates are the most basic type. They verify the domain name, ensuring the website belongs to who it says it does. They’re quick to obtain and ideal for blogs or informational sites.

Organization Validated (OV) SSL

OV SSL certificates offer a higher level of security. They not only verify domain ownership but also the organization behind it. These are suitable for businesses and e-commerce sites.

Extended Validation (EV) SSL

EV SSL certificates provide the highest level of security and trust. They require thorough vetting of the business and activate the green address bar in browsers, showing users that the site is highly secure. This is perfect for high-profile e- sites.

How to Choose the Right SSL Certificate

Choosing the right SSL certificate depends on several factors, such as the type of website development services in India you have, the level of trust you want to convey, and your budget. Ask yourself these questions: Do you need a single-domain, multi-domain, or wildcard certificate? What level of validation is necessary? How much are you willing to spend?

Top SSL Certificate Providers

Several companies provide SSL certificates, but some stand out for their reliability and customer service:

Symantec

Symantec (now part of DigiCert) is renowned for its robust security solutions. They offer a range of SSL certificates suitable for all types of websites.

Comodo

Comodo provides affordable SSL certificates with various validation levels, making them a popular choice for small to medium-sized businesses.

GlobalSign

GlobalSign is another top provider, known for its high-quality SSL certificates and excellent customer support.

Customer Reviews of SSL Certificates

Customer reviews can be incredibly helpful when choosing an SSL certificate. Look for feedback on ease of installation, customer support, and overall satisfaction. Websites like Trustpilot and G2 are great places to start. Remember, a product that works well for one person may not be ideal for another, so consider multiple reviews before making a decision.

GoDaddy SSL Certificates

GoDaddy is a well-known name in the domain and hosting industry, and they also offer SSL certificates. They provide a range of options, from DV to EV certificates, with competitive pricing and robust customer support. Many users appreciate the convenience of managing all their website needs under one provider.

SSL Certificate Prices

SSL certificate prices can vary widely based on the type and provider. Here’s a general breakdown:

DV SSL Certificates: These are usually the cheapest, ranging from free (e.g., Let’s Encrypt) to around $50 per year.

OV SSL Certificates: These typically cost between $50 and $200 per year.

EV SSL Certificates: These are the most expensive, often ranging from $200 to $1000 per year.

While it might be tempting to go for the cheapest option, consider the level of trust and security you need for your ecommerce site.

GoDaddy SSL Prices

GoDaddy’s SSL certificate prices are competitive:

DV SSL Certificates: Starting at $63.99 per year.

OV SSL Certificates: Starting at $159.99 per year.

EV SSL Certificates: Starting at $299.99 per year.

Installing Your SSL Certificate

Installing an SSL certificate can seem daunting, but most providers offer detailed guides and customer support to help you through the process. Generally, you’ll need to generate a Certificate Signing Request (CSR) from your server, submit it to your SSL provider, and then install the issued certificate on your server.

Maintaining SSL Certificate Security

Once your SSL certificate is installed, maintaining its security is crucial. Regularly update your server software, use strong passwords, and monitor your certificate’s expiration date to ensure it doesn’t lapse. Renewing your certificate before it expires helps maintain continuous security.

Common SSL Certificate Issues

Even with the best SSL certificate, you might encounter issues such as:

Mixed Content Errors: Occur when secure and non-secure content is loaded on the same page.

Certificate Mismatch: Happens when the domain name in the certificate does not match the URL.

Expired Certificate: An expired certificate can lead to security warnings for visitors.

Most issues can be resolved by following troubleshooting guides provided by your SSL certificate provider or seeking help from their customer support.

Conclusion

Choosing the best SSL certificate for your e-commerce site is a critical decision that impacts your site’s security and your customers’ trust. By understanding the different types of SSL certificates, reviewing customer feedback, and considering your specific needs and budget, you can make an informed choice. Whether you opt for a GoDaddy SSL certificate or another reputable provider, ensuring your website is secure is a step in the right direction.

FAQs

1. What is an SSL certificate and why do I need it? An SSL certificate encrypts data between your website and visitors, ensuring secure transactions and building trust.

2. How much does an SSL certificate cost? Prices vary: DV certificates range from free to $50/year, OV certificates from $50 to $200/year, and EV certificates from $200 to $1000/year.

3. What is the difference between DV, OV, and EV SSL certificates? DV verifies domain ownership, OV verifies the organization, and EV provides the highest security with thorough vetting and a green address bar.

4. Can I get an SSL certificate for free? Yes, providers like Let’s Encrypt offer free DV SSL certificates, suitable for basic websites and blogs.

5. How do I install an SSL certificate on my website? Installation involves generating a CSR, submitting it to your provider, and installing the issued certificate on your server. Most providers offer detailed guides to help you through the process.

By taking the time to secure your e-commerce site with the right SSL certificate, you not only protect your customers but also enhance your site’s credibility and trustworthiness.

[sheguftapraveen]

5 Best: Web-Hosting With Free Domain Name (2023)

Do you want to start a blog or online store on a budget? You’ve come to the right place! We’ve compiled a list of the best web hosting providers that offer free domain names, so you can get your website up and running without breaking the bank.

While starting an online store or a WordPress blog, a domain name and web hosting plan are two of the necessary things you need. Typically, most people will purchase the domain name and hosting plan individually, spending more money.

There’s a hack to save money on your next domain purchase! And that’s exactly what I’m going to share with you today.

A few high-quality hosting companies offer free domain registration when you purchase their hosting plan for a year or more. They do this to market there product, and usually when people start an online business, they don’t change hosting often. With this tactic, there’s no catch, and you save $10 – $15.

Sounds interesting, right?

To help you save money on domain purchases, this article will show you the top five web hosting companies that offer free domain name registration. But before diving deep, let’s look at some essential things about the free domain name offer.

Page Contents

Important Things You Should Know About the Free Domain Offer

Understand the idea: The hosting providers will only give you a free domain name when you purchase any of their hosting plans. Most of the hosting offers this when you buy hosting for one year or more. If you are starting now, you should check my guide on how to save money on hosting.

No cancellations/refunds: While most of the hosting companies here offer 30-60 days refund, but domain name can’t be refunded. So even if you cancel hosting, you will be paying the domain name fees which is roughly $10, and this is only in case you end up asking for refund. Since these hosting companies are tried and tested by us, most of our users are happy users of these hosting companies.

You’ll get only selected extensions: The most popular extensions you can get are .com, .net, .org, .info, and so on. So, ensure the domain extension you need is available with the offer.

Renews at the standard rate: The free domain name registration is only available for the first year. You should renew it at the standard rate from the second year and afterward.

Best Web Hosting Companies that Offers Free Domain Name

In a nutshell, the companies are:

Bluehost

DreamHost

HostGator

GoDaddy

HostArmada

Below, I will explain what makes each platform different and unique. So based on your preference and requirements, you can choose a platform.

Without any further ado, let’s get into the list.

1. Bluehost – Trusted by Millions

Save

Bluehost is be the first web hosting provider that I recommend. I use Bluehost for a couple of my side projects, and it is one of the best platforms for hosting WordPress websites. The platform is also recommended by WordPress, which makes it even better.

When you purchase any of the Bluehost shared or managed WordPress hosting plans, you will get access to a free domain for a year! Besides free domain registration, Bluehost will also reward their customer with a $150 credit for first-time AdWord users in the US. With the credits, you can boost your ad campaign and get more potential customers.

To help you protect your online business from threats, they will offer you a malware-scanning option. If any of the theme files or WordPress core files get affected, the scanner will notify you regarding the case, and you can take appropriate action.

You can also use the in-built backup feature to protect your hard work from hackers. After purchasing the hosting plan, you’ll get instant access to the backup feature. When you start using the in-built backups feature, you do not need a dedicated WordPress backup plugin.

Finally, if you are running a WooCommerce store and need to enhance the user experience and conversions, Bluehost got something unique. Their online store hosting plans will give you access to plugins worth more than $450. It is an excellent start to creating a stunning online store without any hassle.

Notable Features

Free domain name registration

Google AdWord credits

Malware scanner

Daily backups

Free dedicated IP address

Free CDN

Pricing

Their most popular shared hosting plans are:Hosting PlanPriceRenewal PriceBasic$2.95/month$10.99/monthChoice Plus$5.45/month$19.99/monthOnline Store$9.95/month$24.95/monthPro$13.95/month$28.99/month

Every subscription comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. So if you are unhappy with their hosting platform, you can claim a full refund.

[alessiatummino]

How to start blogging topic:- how to cancel

Starting a blog is a rewarding endeavor that allows you to express yourself, share your expertise, and potentially even earn income. Whether you're passionate about a specific topic, want to document your journey, or simply love writing, blogging offers a platform to connect with like-minded individuals and make an impact. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to start blogging:

1. Define Your Purpose: Before diving into the world of blogging, take some time to clarify your purpose. Ask yourself why you want to start a blog and what you hope to achieve with it. Are you looking to share your knowledge, inspire others, or build a personal brand? Understanding your motivation will help guide your blogging journey.

2. Choose Your Niche: Selecting a niche is crucial for attracting a targeted audience. Consider your interests, expertise, and the needs of your potential readers. Focus on a specific topic or niche that you're passionate about and have knowledge in. This could be anything from travel and food to fitness and personal finance.

3. Pick a Blogging Platform: There are several blogging platforms to choose from, each with its own set of features and benefits. Some popular options include WordPress, Blogger, Medium, and Wix. WordPress.org is highly recommended for its flexibility, customization options, and scalability.

4. Secure a Domain Name: Your domain name is your blog's unique address on the internet. Choose a domain name that reflects your brand, is easy to remember, and aligns with your niche. You can purchase a domain name through domain registrars like GoDaddy, Namecheap, or Bluehost.

5. Set Up Web Hosting: If you choose a self-hosted platform like WordPress.org, you'll need to find a reliable web hosting provider. Look for hosting companies that offer good performance, uptime, security, and customer support. Some popular options include Bluehost, SiteGround, and HostGator.

6. Design Your Blog: Select a visually appealing theme or template for your blog. Choose a design that reflects your brand personality and is easy to navigate. Customize the layout, colors, fonts, and other elements to create a unique look and feel for your blog.

7. Create Compelling Content: Content is the heart of any successful blog. Start by brainstorming topics that resonate with your target audience. Write high-quality, engaging, and informative posts that provide value to your readers. Incorporate multimedia elements like images, videos, and infographics to make your content more engaging.

8. Develop a Content Strategy: Plan your content strategy by creating an editorial calendar. Decide on the frequency of your posts, types of content you'll create, and topics you'll cover. Consistency is key to building an audience and keeping them engaged.

9. Optimize for SEO: Search engine optimization (SEO) is essential for improving your blog's visibility in search engine results. Conduct keyword research to identify relevant keywords and phrases related to your niche. Optimize your blog posts for SEO by including keywords in your titles, headings, meta descriptions, and content.

10. Promote Your Blog: Once you've published your blog posts, it's time to promote them to your target audience. Share your posts on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Engage with your audience, participate in online communities, and collaborate with other bloggers to expand your reach.

11. Build an Email List: Start building an email list from the get-go. Offer a lead magnet or incentive in exchange for visitors' email addresses. Use email marketing tools like Mailchimp or ConvertKit to create and send newsletters, updates, and promotions to your subscribers.

12. Monetize Your Blog: There are various ways to monetize your blog and generate income. These include affiliate marketing, sponsored content, selling digital products or services, offering online courses or coaching, and displaying ads through ad networks like Google AdSense.

13. Analyze and Iterate: Track your blog's performance using analytics tools like Google Analytics. Monitor key metrics such as traffic, engagement, conversion rates, and revenue. Use this data to analyze what's working and what's not, and make adjustments to your strategy accordingly.

14. Stay Consistent and Patient: Building a successful blog takes time, effort, and patience. Stay consistent with your posting schedule, keep learning and experimenting, and don't get discouraged by slow progress. With dedication and perseverance, you can achieve your blogging goals and create a thriving online presence.

Conclusion: Starting a blog is an exciting journey that offers endless opportunities for creativity, connection, and growth. By following these steps and staying true to your passion and purpose, you can build a successful blog that resonates with your audience and makes a meaningful impact in the digital world.

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[comparebuy-in]

Promote HP products, earn money through affiliate marketing.

Also read :Make Money with GoDaddy Affiliate Program: A Lucrative Opportunity for Online Marketers

The HP Affiliate Program is a great opportunity for anyone who wants to earn money through affiliate marketing. HP is a renowned brand in the computer and electronics industry, and it offers a wide range of products that are popular among consumers. By promoting HP products through the affiliate program, you can earn a commission on every sale that is made through your referral link.

To get started with the HP Affiliate Program, you need to sign up on the HP Affiliate Program website. Once you are approved, you can start promoting HP products on your website or blog. The commission rate for the HP Affiliate Program varies depending on the product category, but it can range from 2% to 8%.

Read more..

[sashibunbun]

I wouldn't even say it's because of smartphones, remember the latter third of Homestuck was done at a time when those were becoming big (and tablets were just getting started). Having read at least one webcomic a month since 2000 and up to the present day the bigger problem is that around about 2011 there was a Quadfecta of problems that practically killed webcomics.

First, and let's get this little thing out here, Tumblr Ask Comics (ESPECIALLY for a certain show about small, colorful horses) started to really clog up the few remaining ways to discover new webcomics by about 2012. I remember the Belfry Webcomic index (which was pretty good at exposing new comics of you knew about it) being literally useless because of it and the fact that in the year and a half that that was huge, it drowned out even the notoriously churn it out of indie Keenspace/Comics Genesis creators.

Speaking of the Keen brand, that's sorta the other side, with the rise of Twitter, Tumblr, and The/Drunkduck, as well as the rise of things like Godaddy and Squarspace, there was less reason to keep your stuff on Comic Genesis (for free) or Keenspot (for more than the above). Eliminating the word of mouth you could get because at its height you'd get crossovers all over (he'll I remember a Questionable Content, Friendly Hostility, and Girls With Slignshots crossover) that would end in massive amounts of exposure between artists in a sort of pseudo-webring. Speaking of...

The death of webrings and rise of the not long to be clogged aggregate sites (like Belfry or the forgotten Webcomics Index) really hit the webcomic "industry" hard, because should anything happen to those, you had to rely on word of mouth like Sabrina Online or Kevin and Kell had to back in the 90s, which was great if you were a long time person like Hussie (or until things came out Dave Kelly/Shmorky, Isabel Marks, or Jeph, etc) but would be terrible for people like Charby the Vampirate's Amelius.

And the final nail is/was endings. Around 2009-2012 you had a LOT of webcomics end, either from the creators being unable to do their comics (career ending injury, fuck this shit, or sadly death) or finishing the stories, and attempting to make a sequel/new series that wasnt't quite as good as their big comic at best or major letdown at worst. And we're not talking small numbers here, I went from a daily ritual of about 30 minutes reading about 7-15 webcomics in 2008 to literally 7 maybe once a week (arguably the same amount of time though) , with no change in free time just 4 years later. Because, as they ended, there was no real way to get into a new comic, webrings were long gone, KeenComics and TheDuck were effectively useless in promoting new comics, the aggregate sites were either little used so were outdated, or were clogged with MLP Ask Blogs that often lasted maybe a month or two, and all everybody would talk about was Homestuck (know I'll get flak for this, but it's not as revolutionary as people portray it, could go into that on my own time).

Basically the whole thing had a bottleneck about 2010-2013, that maybe, if we're lucky, will see the artform come back as more than just Webtoons kitsch or Slipshine porn (both of which are just following the old Keenspot/TheDuck formula) as people get over not being Homestuck and just create.

People don't like to admit it bcs cringe or w/e but Homestuck really did revolutionize the webcomic as a storytelling medium and I am endlessly frustrated that before webcomic artists could really stretch our legs fucking webtoonz swooped in, set a new, more restrictive standard, and then monetized and monopolized the ever living fuck out of the concept of The Webcomic until it drove away anyone who couldn't be a professional quality manga artist for free, and now the only webcomics that actually feel like spiritual successors to Homestuck are so obscure they're basically cult classics that you have to beg people to read.

Like it's just so wild to be in high school and see Homestuck be like "we're using like fifteen different artistic mediums to tell this story bcs we can" and be really fucking inspired by that, only to grow up and see basically every webcomic ever have to conform to One Single Standard or fucking perish.

[vawagencymarketing]

WordPress: The Ultimate Guide for Beginners

If you’ve ever considered creating a website, you’ve probably come across the name WordPress. As one of the most popular website-building platforms in the world, WordPress powers over 43% of all websites on the internet. Whether you want to start a blog, set up an online store, or showcase your portfolio, WordPress offers a user-friendly, flexible, and scalable solution. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know as a beginner to get started with WordPress.

What is WordPress?

WordPress is an open-source content management system (CMS) that allows you to create, manage, and customize websites without requiring advanced technical skills. Initially launched in 2003 as a blogging platform, WordPress has since evolved into a powerful website builder suitable for any purpose.

There are two versions of WordPress:

WordPress.org: The self-hosted version where you have full control over your website. It’s free to download, but you’ll need to purchase web hosting and a domain name.

WordPress.com: A hosted version with less flexibility but easier setup. It’s great for beginners who don’t want to deal with hosting.

This guide focuses on WordPress.org, as it offers more customization and scalability.

Why Choose WordPress?

WordPress stands out among website builders for several reasons:

1. Ease of Use

Even if you’re not a tech expert, WordPress’s intuitive dashboard makes managing your site a breeze. You can easily add pages, blog posts, images, and other content without coding.

2. Flexibility

WordPress supports a wide range of website types, including blogs, eCommerce stores, portfolios, business websites, forums, and membership sites.

3. Customizability

With over 10,000 free themes and 60,000 plugins available, you can design your website to suit your specific needs.

4. SEO-Friendly

WordPress is optimized for search engines out of the box, and you can enhance it further with plugins like Yoast SEO or Rank Math.

5. Community Support

As an open-source platform, WordPress has a massive global community. You can find countless tutorials, forums, and resources to help you.

How to Get Started with WordPress

Step 1: Choose a Domain Name and Hosting Provider

Your domain name is your website’s address (e.g., www.yourwebsite.com). Choose something short, memorable, and relevant to your niche. Popular domain registrars include Namecheap, Google Domains, and GoDaddy.

Web hosting is where your website’s files are stored. Some popular WordPress-friendly hosting providers are:

Bluehost (officially recommended by WordPress)

SiteGround

HostGator

Most hosting providers offer one-click WordPress installation, simplifying the setup process.

Step 2: Install WordPress

Once you’ve secured hosting and a domain, log in to your hosting account and find the WordPress installer. Follow these steps:

Go to your hosting dashboard.

Look for the “Install WordPress” or “WordPress Tools” option.

Follow the prompts to complete the installation.

After installation, you’ll receive your WordPress login credentials. Access your site’s dashboard by visiting www.yourwebsite.com/wp-admin.

Step 3: Choose a Theme

Themes determine your website’s design and layout. To choose a theme:

Go to your WordPress dashboard.

Navigate to Appearance > Themes.

Click Add New to browse free themes.

Preview and activate the theme you like.

You can also purchase premium themes from marketplaces like ThemeForest for more advanced features and designs.

Step 4: Install Essential Plugins

Plugins add functionality to your website. Some must-have plugins for beginners include:

Yoast SEO: Helps optimize your content for search engines.

WooCommerce: Essential for creating an online store.

Elementor: A drag-and-drop page builder.

WPForms: Allows you to create contact forms.

UpdraftPlus: Simplifies website backups.

To install plugins, go to Plugins > Add New, search for the plugin, and click Install Now.

Step 5: Customize Your Website

WordPress makes it easy to customize your site. From your dashboard:

Go to Appearance > Customize to tweak your theme’s colors, fonts, and layout.

Add pages by navigating to Pages > Add New.

Create blog posts under Posts > Add New.

Tips for Managing Your WordPress Website

1. Keep Your Site Updated

WordPress frequently releases updates to improve security and performance. Always update your WordPress core, themes, and plugins to the latest versions.

2. Enhance Website Security

Install security plugins like Wordfence or Sucuri to protect your site from malware and hackers. Also, use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication.

3. Optimize for Speed

A fast-loading website improves user experience and SEO. Use plugins like WP Super Cache or W3 Total Cache and compress images with tools like Smush.

4. Monitor Your Site’s Performance

Track your website’s performance using tools like Google Analytics and the MonsterInsights plugin.

5. Regular Backups

Create regular backups of your site using plugins like UpdraftPlus to ensure you can recover your data in case of an emergency.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

1. Choosing the Right Theme

With thousands of themes available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Focus on themes that are responsive, lightweight, and well-reviewed.

2. Dealing with Plugins Conflicts

Too many plugins or poorly coded ones can cause issues. Use only necessary and reputable plugins, and always test new ones before activating them.

3. Improving SEO

SEO takes time and effort. Start by researching keywords, optimizing your content, and building backlinks to improve your search rankings.

4. Managing Spam Comments

Spam can clutter your site’s comment section. Use plugins like Akismet Anti-Spam to filter unwanted comments automatically.

Exploring Advanced Features

Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can explore advanced WordPress features:

Custom Post Types: Create unique content types beyond pages and posts.

eCommerce Features: Use WooCommerce to set up payment gateways, manage inventory, and handle shipping.

Multilingual Sites: Create a multilingual website with plugins like WPML or Polylang.

Membership Sites: Offer exclusive content with plugins like MemberPress.

Conclusion

WordPress is a versatile platform that empowers beginners to build professional websites with ease. By following this guide, you’ll have a solid foundation to create, customize, and manage your website effectively. Whether you’re starting a blog, launching an online store, or creating a portfolio, WordPress has the tools to bring your vision to life. Dive in and explore the endless possibilities WordPress offers—your journey to a stunning website begins today!

[mybestblogs]

Starting a blog is exciting, but choosing the right domain name can feel overwhelming. Your domain name isn’t just a URL—it’s part of your brand, identity, and online presence. A well-thought-out domain can help your blog stand out and attract the right audience. This guide will show you how to choose a domain name for your blog with practical tips and examples. 1. Keep It Short and Memorable Domain name for your blog. A short domain name is easier to remember, type, and share. Avoid long and complex names that may confuse visitors.Example: Instead of MyPersonalTravelAdventuresInEurope.com, opt for something shorter like TravelEuropeBlog.com. To check if your desired domain is available, use a reliable tool like GoDaddy's Domain Search. 2. Make It Relevant to Your Niche Your domain should reflect your blog’s topic or niche. It helps potential readers understand what your blog is about at a glance.Example: - If you’re blogging about food, names like TheTastyKitchen.com or HealthyEatingTips.com work well. - For tech blogs, names like TechTalksToday.com or SmartGadgetReviews.com are great choices. If you're unsure about your niche, check out this guide on choosing a blog niche. 3. Use Keywords Wisely Including a keyword in your domain can improve SEO and make your blog easier to find on search engines. However, don’t overdo it—keep it natural.Example: - Instead of keyword stuffing with BestFoodRecipesBlog.com, choose something like SavoryRecipes.com. 4. Avoid Hyphens and Numbers Hyphens and numbers make domain names harder to type and remember. They can also reduce credibility. Stick to clean, simple names.Bad Example: My-Blog-123.comGood Example: MyPersonalBlog.com 5. Choose the Right Domain Extension While .com is the most popular and trusted extension, other options like .blog, .net, or even country-specific extensions like .com.au can work depending on your audience. - Use .com for global appeal. - Use .blog if it’s available and directly relevant. - Use country-specific extensions if your blog targets a specific region. For more on domain extensions, check out ICANN’s guide to top-level domains. 6. Check for Trademark Issues Make sure your domain name doesn’t infringe on any trademarks. You don’t want legal troubles down the road. Search for trademarks using USPTO’s Trademark Database. 7. Test for Social Media Availability It’s a good idea to have the same name across your blog and social media platforms. This makes it easier for people to find and follow you. Before you finalize your domain, check if the same handle is available on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. 8. Think Long-Term Choose a domain name that will stay relevant even if your blog evolves over time. Avoid names tied to current trends or a single phase of your life.Example: - Instead of My2025FitnessJourney.com, choose something timeless like FitLifestyleTips.com. 9. Get Creative If all your desired names are taken, don’t be afraid to get creative. You can use unique word combinations, puns, or brandable names.Example: - Bloggernaut.com (combination of blogger and astronaut) - WanderlustTales.com (for a travel blog) What to Do After Buying a Domain Name from GoDaddy? How to Choose a Domain Name That Boosts Your SEO Conclusion: Take Your Time and Choose Wisely Your domain name is your online identity, so take your time to brainstorm and choose something that reflects your blog’s purpose. Remember, a great domain name is short, relevant, keyword-friendly, and easy to remember. Once you’ve found the perfect domain, register it quickly before someone else does! If you’re ready to start, visit Namecheap’s Domain Registration to secure your domain today. Read the full article

[the-rankon]

How to Build a Website from Scratch: A Beginner's Guide

Building a website from scratch might seem like a daunting task, but with the right guidance and tools, it’s entirely achievable even for beginners. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process to create your own website.

Step 1: Define Your Purpose and Goals

Before you start building your website, it’s crucial to determine its purpose. Are you creating a personal blog, a portfolio, an e-commerce store, or a business website? Clearly defined goals will help you make better design and content decisions.

Step 2: Choose a Domain Name

Your domain name is your website’s address on the internet (e.g., www.yourwebsite.com). Choose a name that is:

Memorable: Easy to spell and pronounce.

Relevant: Reflects your brand or the website’s purpose.

Short: Avoid overly long names.

You can register your domain through providers like GoDaddy, Namecheap, or Google Domains.

Step 3: Select a Web Hosting Service

Web hosting is where your website’s files are stored and accessed. Popular hosting providers include:

Shared Hosting: Affordable and suitable for small websites (e.g., Bluehost, HostGator).

VPS Hosting: More control and scalability for growing websites.

Dedicated Hosting: Ideal for high-traffic websites requiring full control.

Choose a hosting plan based on your website’s expected traffic and technical needs.

Step 4: Plan Your Website’s Structure

Sketch out a sitemap to organize your content. A basic website typically includes:

Home Page: Your main landing page.

About Page: Information about you or your business.

Services/Products Page: Details about what you offer.

Contact Page: Ways for visitors to reach you.

Blog (Optional): A section for sharing updates or articles.

Step 5: Design Your Website

You have two main options for website design:

Website Builders

Tools like Wix, Squarespace, and Weebly offer drag-and-drop interfaces, making them beginner-friendly.

Ideal for non-technical users.

Custom Design with Code

Use HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to build a unique design.

Requires more time and technical skills but offers full customization.

For more control without coding, you can use platforms like WordPress and pair them with customizable themes.

Step 6: Add Content

Content is the heart of your website. Ensure your text, images, and videos align with your goals and target audience. Follow these tips:

Clarity: Write concise and clear content.

Visuals: Use high-quality images and videos to engage visitors.

SEO: Optimize your content for search engines to improve visibility.

Step 7: Test and Launch Your Website

Before making your website live, thoroughly test its functionality:

Check links, forms, and interactive elements.

Ensure your website is responsive and looks good on mobile devices.

Test loading speed using tools like Google PageSpeed Insights.

Once everything is in place, publish your website through your hosting platform.

Step 8: Maintain and Update Your Website

Launching your website is just the beginning. Regular updates are essential to keep your content fresh and relevant. Monitor performance using analytics tools like Google Analytics, and ensure your website remains secure by updating software and plugins regularly.

Final Thoughts

Building a website from scratch requires time and effort, but it’s an incredibly rewarding experience. Whether you use a website builder or dive into coding, remember that clarity, simplicity, and usability are key to creating a successful website. Start small, and as you gain confidence, you can expand and improve your site over time.

[digiexpert894]

The Thrilling World of Domain Flipping: A Guide to Success

The internet has revolutionized countless industries, and one of the most fascinating among them is the buying and selling of domain names. Known as domain flipping, this practice involves purchasing domain names at a low cost and selling them at a higher price for a profit. While it might sound simple, there is an art and science behind the process that makes it a lucrative venture for those who master it.

In this blog, we’ll delve into what domain flipping is, why it’s so popular, and how you can start your journey in this digital marketplace. We’ll also explore tips to increase your chances of success and potential pitfalls to avoid. So, buckle up as we take you through the exciting realm of domain flipping!

What Is Domain Flipping?

At its core, domain flipping is akin to real estate trading—but in the virtual world. A domain name is a unique address that websites use to make their presence on the internet, such as "example.com." Like physical properties, certain domains are more desirable than others due to their relevance, memorability, or alignment with trending industries.

For instance, a short, keyword-rich domain like "travelguru.com" or "shopnow.net" can attract businesses eager to establish a strong online presence. Domain flippers act as intermediaries who identify undervalued domains, purchase them at affordable prices, and sell them to buyers who recognize their true worth.

Why Is Domain Flipping Popular?

1. Low Entry Barrier: Unlike many business ventures that require a hefty initial investment, domain flipping demands only a few dollars to get started. Platforms like GoDaddy and Namecheap allow users to purchase domains for as little as $10-$15.

2. High-Profit Potential: The returns can be staggering. For instance, the domain "CarInsurance.com" was sold for a jaw-dropping $49.7 million! While such sales are rare, even modestly profitable flips can yield significant earnings.

3. Work-from-Anywhere Opportunity: Whether you’re sitting at a café in Paris or lounging at home, domain flipping allows you to operate remotely, making it an attractive choice for digital nomads.

4. Scalability: This business model scales well. You can start small, gain experience, and reinvest your profits into acquiring more valuable domains.

How to Get Started with Domain Flipping

1. Research and Identify TrendsBefore buying a domain, understand what’s in demand. Use tools like Google Trends, SEMrush, or Ahrefs to analyze trending keywords and niches. Industries like technology, health, e-commerce, and finance often see high domain demand.

2. Choose the Right Domain NameWhen scouting for domains, prioritize:

Short Names: Easier to remember and type.

Keywords: Relevant to popular industries or niches.

Extensions: .com domains are the most sought-after, though .net and .org can also perform well.

3. Buy SmartLook for domains with potential but are undervalued. Platforms like GoDaddy Auctions, Sedo, and Flippa are excellent for finding deals. Alternatively, hand-register new domains if you identify a budding trend.

4. Add ValueSometimes, enhancing a domain’s value can make it more appealing. For example, you might build a basic website or generate some traffic to demonstrate its potential.

5. Sell StrategicallyWhen it comes to selling, timing is everything. Use platforms like Afternic, Flippa, and Sedo to list your domains. Market them effectively by highlighting their relevance and potential ROI to prospective buyers.

Tips for Successful Domain Flipping

Stay Updated: The online world evolves rapidly. Keep an eye on emerging industries and trends to identify future opportunities.

Set a Budget: Avoid overspending on domains, especially when starting. It’s easy to get carried away, but a disciplined approach will yield better results.

Negotiate Smartly: Buyers may haggle. Be prepared to negotiate, but know the minimum price you’re willing to accept.

Diversify Your Portfolio: Invest in domains across various niches to reduce risk.

Be Patient: Some domains may sell quickly, while others take months or even years to find the right buyer. Persistence is key.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overestimating Value: Not all domains are gold mines. Avoid overpaying for names that lack clear demand.

Ignoring Trademark Issues: Ensure the domain you purchase doesn’t infringe on existing trademarks, as this could lead to legal complications.

Neglecting Research: Failing to analyze market trends and buyer demand can lead to poor investment decisions.

Relying Solely on .com: While .com is king, don’t overlook emerging domain extensions like .ai, .tech, or .io that are gaining popularity in tech-driven niches.

Tools and Resources for Domain Flipping

Domain Appraisal Tools: Platforms like Estibot and GoDaddy’s appraisal tool estimate a domain’s worth.

Auction Platforms: Sites like Flippa, Sedo, and GoDaddy Auctions are excellent for buying and selling domains.

Keyword Research Tools: SEMrush, Ahrefs, and Google Trends help identify valuable keywords.

Forums: Communities like NamePros allow flippers to share insights and learn from experienced traders.

The Future of Domain Flipping

As the internet continues to expand, the value of a strong online presence grows with it. Businesses are willing to pay a premium for domains that align with their brand and marketing goals. Emerging technologies like AI and blockchain also create opportunities in niche markets, making domain flipping more relevant than ever.

However, competition is intensifying. To succeed, you must stay ahead of the curve by embracing innovation, leveraging data analytics, and continuously honing your skills.

[fromdevcom]

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