- 1). Get a domain name. A domain name is the name and address of your website, the URL consumers will type into their browser to reach your store. You can purchase a domain name from any website registrar. Some reputable ones include Network Solutions, Moniker and Go Daddy.
- 2). Choose a host. A host provides you with space and functions for your store website. Make sure the host you select provides you with enough space to expand your store, good access speed, customer support and certain features you may need. One feature you must have in any online store is a shopping cart. Check if shopping cart software comes with your hosting service. Alternatively, you can purchase one separately or use one of the many free shopping carts available online. If you don't have experience designing a website and wish to do it yourself, look for a host that provides you with easy-to-use designing tools.
- 3). Get an SSL certificate. SSL is a protocol that provides security for communications over the Web by confirming the identity of a website and encrypting sensitive data during a transaction. For security reasons, many people are hesitant to purchase products from an online store without a certificate. You can get an SSL certificate through your hosting provider if it offers one or from a certificate provider such as Entrust, VeriSign and InstantSSL.
- 4). Set up a payment mechanism. Open a merchant account to accept payments online. When searching for a merchant account provider look into setup costs, monthly fees and transaction fees and choose the one that is best for you. PayPal is a good option if you wish to keep your start-up costs as low as possible since there are no setup or monthly fees and you won't need an SSL certificate since the transaction is made directly through PayPal. However PayPal's transaction fees are higher than most standard merchant accounts.
- 5). Design your store. Create a professional look, upload the items you wish to sell and place them into categories. Add a detailed description about each product including the price, shipping information and photos if possible.
- 6). Promote your store. The best online store won't generate any sales if people can't find it. You can start by advertising your site on social networks, blogs, forums or with Google AdWords advertising program.
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