Joomla is one of the most versatile content management systems (CMS) in use these days. The advantages are numerous, but the most lovable all is the kind of control it gives users to maintain their website without learning HTML coding, though a working knowledge will help immensely. Joomla is free software, and falls under the open source category.
Starting with Joomla 3.0 is not a difficult task. If you understand some simple procedures like installing software, configuring, hosting and database creation you are ready to take advantage of Joomla 3.0 and begin to use it. Joomla is about managing voluminous content, and you can see a demo of the software at Joomla Demo. Here, you can also access live webinars or watch a recorded webinar, and also access other resources to give you richer fuller information about Joomla.
Here is how you can start with using Joomla 3.0:
- Create an account at Joomla website. Though this not mandatory, it will help you to access support from Joomla site. To register you will need a valid email address where a confirmation will be sent to you for activation.
- Once you have activated the account, you may want to read Joomla documentation. The documentation section is elaborate and covers every aspect of installation and getting support in future. When you become a veteran user you can even contribute to the documentation.
- The next step is to download and install PHP and MySQL on your local computer if you want to try your website locally before uploading it to a web server. However, you can install Joomla directly on your host web server if they have PHP and MySQL pre-installed. Most web hosting services these days have the two services pre-installed.
- With PHP and MySQL in place you are now ready to install Joomla 3.0. For installing Joomla 3.0 on your host, you will first have to download it from an authentic source. Joomla users download the software from Joomla download, the official website of Joomla. If your host service provider has Joomla 3.0 pre-installed, then you will be spared from doing it by yourself. But, before you use it, check that they have version 3.0 of Joomla.
- If you want to try your Joomla website on your local computer, like most users do, download the Joomla 3.0 package to your computer and install it locally. For detailed instruction on installing the software on your local computer you should read instructions at Joomla 3.0_manual. Not all versions of PHP & MySQL will work with Joomla 3.0. The information available here will walk you through the requirements in depth.
Sourcing Templates and Other Enhancements
Joomla remember is a content management system. The layout of your website pages and the general look and rendering are taken care by templates. There are numerous templates and plugins you can bring in to give your website a unique look.
Some templates and plugins can be downloaded and used straight away by following instructions in the documentation. Though useful, we recommend you buy templates from well known vendors. The advantages are – you get full support for optimization and customization, and even free access to updates.
Author’s Bio:
Therese Porter currently works at fios tv, a site that enables everyone to learn about how to save on broadband and internet cable.
