Choose a blog host

Starting a blog takes just minutes, thanks to a plethora of host sites. These provide a web address, page templates and tools for posting.

Our class blog runs on Blogger – and most of the functionality examples will be drawn from it. We have Wordpress and LiveJournal accounts as well. We may not be able to answer specific questions about other hosters without screen grabs (aka captures) or access to your account. But really, we recommend Blogger, in part because you can tinker with the templates without suffering a fee.

Advanced "geeks" – no longer a derogatory term, thanks to Obama – can host blogs server-side: this requires, well, a server (a dedicated computer online constantly), and a domain name (www.myblog.com), both of which rack up yearly fees. Don't try this at home. At least, not on the first week of blog class, eh?

Most beginners prefer services like:

• Blogger – a free blogging platform by Google, our recommendation for this class. It allows users to tinker with templates and other code without WordPress's additional fees...
• LiveJournal – blogging tool by SixApart, which offers free basic packages, as well as premium paid ones (from $3/month). Popular for social networking tools.
• Typepad – paid blogging tool by SixApart. After the free trial, prices start at $4.95/month.
• Wordpress – A free and hugely popular hoster, quite simple to use, except for an irritating photo-upload. The platform allows static pages, making it easy to "fake" a static site (useful for authors and small companies often). Be warned, however: Wordpress charges for some services – like the ability to edit template code – free on Blogger and other platforms.
• Xanga – popular among teens and young adults for easy networking (especiallly the guestbook). Free and paid premium services.

DO: Start bookmarking blogs you enjoy. Pay attention to the hosts, templates and features.

DON'T: Succumb to Myspace and Friendster. These are more social networking sites than proper blog tools. Best avoided by those old enough to drink legally.

SUPERHERO OPTION: Radio Userland – schmancy and expensive pro tool that incorporates security controls, an integrated news aggregator, multiple-author capabilities etc. Slick, but not a great starting point for the tech-inhibited.

SUPER FANCY: Server-side and self-hosted blogs. Audioblogs. Podcasting. Videoblogs (vlogs).