Types of Platforms

The hosted weblog provider is one type of blogging platform that requires a user to register and set up a weblog account to be able to begin blogging. This is a very simple way to start blogging and most appropriate for people who are just starting out and who do not want to study some technical subjects like HTML, CSS and FTP. You don’t have to install a program, obtain a web hosting account or get a domain name. The WordPress, MindSay, TypePad, LiveJournal, Xanga and ModBlog are examples of this type of platform. Users only need to go to the site of the weblog provider, register for an account and then choose blog templates, color themes and other customization. A weblog address will then be given to you. After that, you can begin writing blog entries. That easy, no frills and fuss.

The stand-alone weblog software is another kind of platform. This type requires the user to download and install a weblog software in either a free or paid web provider. Users need to visit the site of the weblog software provider, read the requirements to be able to run the program, download the software, install it on the web host and follow the directions on how to set it up. To improve your blog, you can customize your templates and utilize add-ons and plugins. This platform is suited for bloggers who want to have freedom in enhancing their blogs and who have some technical knowhow.

This third type of platform is the remote weblog systems, a cross between the hosted weblog provider and the stand-alone software. Bloggers using this type can either host the weblog system in the built-in host or use their own web host and domain. If a user opts to have his blog hosted, he or she can just go to the weblog host provider’s site and sign up for an account. But if the user wishes to run the system in his own web host and use his own domain name, he or she has to provide the FTP information to the remote weblog system he chose. It is normally the responsibility of the web host company to give the FTP details such as the FTP address, FTP account user name and password. This platform is best for bloggers who wish to control their blog but do not want to install any software.