Where can I host my own website without going through an ISP? Mustafa Turus
You don't need an internet service provider (ISP) to host a website, and many people got started with major hosts such as GeoCities (now owned by Yahoo), Tripod and Angelfire (both owned by Lycos). However, many small companies now offer free web space, usually in exchange for serving ads to your visitors. There are lists at The Free Site, 100Best Free Web Space , and other places. To choose a site, create a simple page using a free editor such as Nvu and see how easy it is to upload.
The main problems with free web space are that you probably will not get a desirable web address, the monthly bandwidth may be limited (meaning your site ceases to be available when you have used it up), and most will only host personal not business sites. Also, free space providers tend to come and go, so it's important to keep a backup copy of the site on your PC. It is therefore a good idea to buy your own domain name. First, this will give your site a more attractive address, and people will take it more seriously. Second, you will be able to move hosts without all your addresses changing, and you will be able to direct users to your front page.
There are lots of sites to help you get started. Try The Site Wizard or Davesite's HTML tutorial. Site-Helper (www.site-helper.com) provides clear guides to the more technical problems. When you have a good idea what you need, and of your site's potential, you will be in a good position to choose a commercial web-hosting package.
