How can I install WordPress and get started using it?

In your control panel, you will find a link to Fantastico. This is an installer that lets you install various open-source software packages. Word Press is included. Be aware that we are only supporting the automated installation of a common piece of software - we are not supporting WordPress itself.

We recommend installing your blog on a subdirectory, like " yourdomain.com/blog" so you can mess about with the settings before you have to expose it to public viewing. You can later redirect your home page to the first page of the blog, so the site opens on the blog.

There are LOTS of WordPress support sites full of templates, modules, and tips. Start with the official WordPress website. Fantastico will allow you to update your software when new versions come out (highly recommended). Join the WP announcement lists to make sure you know when that happens. If you install a lot modifications to the default script, some will be lost when you update - so keep a lot of the modifications you make, so you can duplicate them.

Remember, as hosts, we only provide a tool that lets you install WordPress. We didn't develop the WP software, and can't help you build a site with it. Generally, the how-tos of building websites with any tool are not part of "hosting support" at any host. It's a D-I-Y world - or people hire someone to do it for them. There are many free WP themes you can easily install.

Here are some WordPress links that will be useful if you want to build your own WordPress template. WP uses the word "theme" to describe a custom template for the software.

The WordPress site itself has lots of information:
http://codex.wordpress.org/Using_Themes#Creating_Themes
and
http://codex.wordpress.org/Blog_Design_and_Layout

... and a WP forum about themes:
http://wordpress.org/support/forum/5

http://www.wpdesigner.com/
Specifically:
http://www.wpdesigner.com/2007/02/19/so-you-want-to-create-wordpress-themes-huh/

You will probably want to learn more about plug-ins:
http://blog-template-layout.com/plug-ins/

You you might want to pay attention to SEO issues:
http://blog-template-layout.com/blog-basics/how-to-seo-your-wordpress-blog/

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