If you plan to create your own web page for personal use or a complete website for your business needs, the first question you must ask is - what kind of features do I look for in a web page editor?

But First - 2 Ways to Build a Website

There are basically two different ways you can create a website.

1. Pay a professional web designer to build a site for you.

2. Learn HTML and create your own site from scratch.

Different types of Web Editing Software

WYSIWYG Editors (what you see is what you get.) this type of software can be easy to use but comes with limited functionality. To create a decent web site you often need to use CSS or JavaScript elements within your web pages. Using a HTML code editor will give you more control over creating your web site.

Web Editing Software - Essential Features

When you are comparing software to use for the creation of your web page or website here are the most important features to keep in mind.

Try Before You Buy

Buying a software package without trying it out first can be risky. It's always a good sign if you can download the web authoring software for free. This is a great way to test out the software and see if it allows you to do the things you want to do and to confirm you're getting value for money.

Easy To Use

If you're looking for a simple web page editor, make sure it's just that - simple and easy to use. The software should guide you through all the necessary steps to create your web site. And with a good web page editor it should be easy to enter any kind of HTML code, JavaScript or any other programming language.

Manual, Samples, Tutorials and Support

No matter how easy a web page editor is, it's still possible you get stuck somewhere in the process of building your own website. Look out for a user manual, some examples, guidelines, tutorials, FAQs and an option to contact support after downloading the software, so you know you'll succeed in building your own website, no matter what.

Website Uploader

Once you've built your web site the next step is to get it on line. There are a number of FTP (file transfer protocol) software clients available that allow you to published your web site for Mac and Windows users such as WinSCP, Cyberduck, Transmit and FileZilla. These software clients will allow you to upload your web site to a remote server