Are you looking to start a website in 2021 but not sure where to begin? One of the first steps in creating a website is to buy a domain name, connect it to hosting, and install WordPress. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of buying a domain on NameCheap, connecting it to hosting, and installing WordPress.
### Step 1: Choosing a Domain Name on NameCheap
1. **Go to NameCheap**: Visit NameCheap’s website and enter your desired domain name in the search bar. NameCheap will show you if the domain is available or suggest alternatives if it’s already taken.
2. **Choose Your Domain**: Select the domain you want to purchase and add it to your cart. NameCheap often offers domain names at discounted rates for the first year.
3. **Check Out**: Proceed to checkout, create an account, and enter your payment details to complete the purchase. Make sure to opt for domain privacy protection to keep your personal information secure.
### Step 2: Connecting Your Domain to Hosting
1. **Choose a Hosting Provider**: There are many hosting providers to choose from, such as Bluehost, SiteGround, or HostGator. Once you’ve selected a hosting provider, sign up for an account.
2. **Access Name Servers**: In your hosting account, locate the name servers provided by your hosting provider. They usually look like “ns1.hostingprovider.com” and “ns2.hostingprovider.com”.
3. **Update Name Servers on NameCheap**: Go to your NameCheap account, find the domain you purchased, and update the name servers with the ones provided by your hosting provider. This step connects your domain to your hosting account.
### Step 3: Installing WordPress
1. **Access Your Hosting Account**: Log in to your hosting account and look for the option to install WordPress. Most hosting providers offer one-click WordPress installations for easy setup.
2. **Set Up WordPress**: Follow the installation prompts, where you can choose your domain name, set up an admin username and password, and select a theme for your website.
3. **Access Your WordPress Dashboard**: Once WordPress is installed, you can log in to your WordPress dashboard by going to “yourdomain.com/wp-admin” and entering your credentials.
### Bonus Tips for Setting Up Your Website
1. **Choose a Theme**: Select a WordPress theme that suits your website’s style and functionality. You can find free and premium themes on platforms
