Difference between revisions of "How to build your free Joomla Website"

From Joomla! Documentation

m (Added note about registration problem.)
 
(51 intermediate revisions by 6 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
{{Top portal heading|color=white-bkgd|icon=book|icon-color=#5091cd|size=4x|text-color=#333|title=Start a Free Website Using Joomla.com}}
+
<noinclude><languages /></noinclude>
  
==What is Joomla.com?==
+
<translate>
[https://www.joomla.com Joomla.com] is the newest Joomla! service that allows you to start, build and maintain a completely free website on a Joomla.com subdomain (example.joomla.com) for an unlimited time. The site building software features all of the Joomla CMS core functionalities that make building a website easy and flexible.  
+
==What is joomla.com?== <!--T:1-->
 +
</translate>
 +
<translate>
 +
<!--T:48-->
 +
joomla.com is a domain name used to allow individuals to create personal instances of the Joomla CMS in subdomains of the form alice.joomla.com, bob.joomla.com and so on. The subdomains are managed by the CloudAccess.net hosting service. With your own subdomain you can build and maintain a completely free Joomla website for an unlimited time. The free site features all of the Joomla CMS core functionalities that make building a website easy and flexible.</translate>
 +
<translate>
 +
==Launching your first Joomla.com site== <!--T:32-->
 +
</translate>
 +
<translate><!--T:33-->
 +
If you are new to Joomla and would like to see it in action without downloading and setting it up yourself the process to launch your new Joomla website has never been easier! To get started, navigate to the main [https://launch.joomla.org/ launch.joomla.org] page and enter the information requested in the sequence of forms, mostly appearing in pop-up dialog boxes.</translate>
  
[[Image:Screenshot-Joomla-com-en.png]]
+
<translate>
 +
=== Step 1: Enter a suitable subdomain name === <!--T:49-->
  
==What kind of Templates can be used with Joomla.com sites?==
+
<!--T:50-->
Only templates from the official [https://www.joomla.com/templates Joomla.com Gallery] can be used with sites hosted on the platform. Currently, '''14 different templates''' are proposed.
+
[[Image:Launch-Joomla-homepage-information.png|800px|center|none]]
Templates in the gallery can be installed either as blank templates or with sample data that demonstrates the different content elements. The sample data option is especially appropriate for beginners, who usually find it easier to edit existing content rather than to start from scratch.
 
  
[[Image:Templates-Joomla-com-en.png]]
+
<!--T:51-->
 +
Alice and Bob are probably taken but you can choose any name that is easy to type and to remember.
  
==What kind of Extensions can be used with Joomla.com sites?==
+
=== Step 2: Select Your Joomla Version === <!--T:52-->
Joomla.com sites come with many pre-installed extensions so that users can experience the extendibility of the Joomla CMS. In addition to the core functionality inbuilt in the default Joomla, users can add the following:
 
*Google Maps
 
*Google Analytics tracking
 
*Disqus comments
 
*Social media links
 
*Social sharing buttons
 
Detailed tutorials on how to set up and use these extensions are available.
 
  
==Difference from a self-hosted Joomla!==
+
<!--T:53-->
The limit on the installation of 3rd party extensions and templates is the main difference between a Joomla.com free website and a self-hosted Joomla! website. Also, only a subdomain of Joomla.com is allowed as the primary address of your free website.
+
As this is a new installation it is best to select the latest stable version.
  
==Difference from the Joomla! Demo==
+
<!--T:54-->
Unlike the free Joomla.com website, the Joomla! Demo has no limitations on templates and extensions, but it can be used freely for a limited time (you will have 90 days to explore Joomla!, test extensions and build a complete website, absolutely free of charge).  
+
[[Image:Launch-Joomla-select-version.png|center|none]]
  
==How to get help when using Joomla.com?==
+
=== Step 3: Create an account === <!--T:55-->
As a free service, Joomla.com does not guarantee any level of personalized support. The Joomla.com support tutorials document most of the platform’s specific functionalities. Comments under the different topics are enabled, so that users may ask questions and get answers from other users.
 
  
Since most of the platform’s functionality overlaps with that of the Joomla CMS, users are also encouraged to seek help in the [http://forum.joomla.org Joomla! Forum] and in this Wiki Documentation.
+
<!--T:56-->
 +
Fill in your personal details and select the Register button.
  
===Some dashboard tutorials===
+
<!--T:57-->
*[http://tutorials.joomla.com/dashboard/8-launch-first-joomla Launching your first Joomla.com site]: Launching your first Joomla.com website takes just a few clicks. You can choose your template at sign up, or start quickly with the default template and then change it at a later stage.
+
[[Image:Launch-Joomla-personal-details.png|center|none]]
*How to [http://tutorials.joomla.com/dashboard/18-logging-to-dashboard log into your Joomla.com dashboard]
 
*[http://tutorials.joomla.com/dashboard/9-access-site-and-admin Accessing your Joomla.com site and admin area]: After logging into your Joomla! dashboard you will see its home page with all your free Joomla! sites listed.
 
*[http://tutorials.joomla.com/dashboard/6-change-template Changing the template of your website]: You can change the look of your Joomla! website any time you want. All it takes is a few easy steps.
 
*[http://tutorials.joomla.com/dashboard/10-adding-another-site Adding another website]: You can have up to 10 free Joomla.com websites in your user area. Adding an additional website is really quick and easy.
 
*[http://tutorials.joomla.com/dashboard/19-delete-site Deleting your site]: You can delete your Joomla.com website through the Delete link, located in the options menu for the specific site.
 
*[http://tutorials.joomla.com/dashboard/35-exporting-your-joomla-com-website Exporting your website]: You can export your Joomla.com website using the Export Site link located in the options menu for the specific site.
 
  
===Extensions Tutorials===
+
<!--T:58-->
*[http://tutorials.joomla.com/extensions/11-google-analytics How to track visits to your website with Google Analytics]: Google Analytics allows you to track the visits to your site in great detail. You can learn many things about your visitors and how people use your site. Google Analytics is a free service and with the special in-built plugin for your Joomla.com site, you can easily start using it.  
+
'''Notes'''
*[http://tutorials.joomla.com/extensions/12-social-media-links How to add social media links on your website]: You can easily link your website with different types of social media accounts using the special inbuilt module.
+
</translate>
*[http://tutorials.joomla.com/extensions/13-google-maps How to integrate Google Maps]: Adding a map with your address to your Joomla.com website is done easily thanks to the special inbuilt Google Maps module. You can also add an unlimited number of maps throughout your website.
+
*<translate><!--T:36--> '''Email Address:''' Your email address is used to login to your Cloud Control Panel (CCP) and to send you messages to complete the set up of your account. It must be a valid account. It is also used for a Super User account in your free joomla.com site. </translate>
*[http://tutorials.joomla.com/extensions/14-disqus-comments How to enable Disqus comments on your website]: Disqus is a popular service allowing your website visitors to leave comments on your site by logging-in with their preferred service without having to register for a separate account.
+
*<translate><!--T:37--> '''Country:''' This data is used to track where the signups come from.</translate>
*[http://tutorials.joomla.com/extensions/33-social-media-sharing-buttons How to add social media sharing buttons to your website]: Adding social media buttons makes it easy for visitors to spread your content and helps with popularizing your website. You can easily add sharing buttons on your website with an inbuilt plugin.
+
*<translate><!--T:38--> '''Terms of Service''' You are required to agree to the Terms of Service available from the link adjacent to the check box. If you agree to sign up for the Joomla marketing campaign you will be sent occasional Joomla marketing emails. This is not a requirement.</translate>
 +
*<translate>
 +
'''Problems:''' If the form does not accept your personal data please send an e-mail with your registration details, whether you want Joomla 4 or 5 and what .joomla.com subdomain you want to sales@cloudaccess.net - the account will then be created manually. </translate>
  
For more tutorials, support resources and to learn how to get started, see: [http://tutorials.joomla.com Joomla.com tutorial website]
+
<translate>
 +
 
 +
=== Step 4: Unlock Premium Features === <!--T:59-->
 +
If you do not wish to Unlock Premium Features for $5 per month you can select '''NOT NOW''' to proceed with your free site.
 +
 
 +
<!--T:60-->
 +
You will shortly receive a 6 digit token on the phone number that you entered.
 +
 
 +
=== Step 5: Verify Account === <!--T:61-->
 +
 
 +
<!--T:62-->
 +
[[Image:Launch-Joomla-verify-account.png|center|none]]
 +
 
 +
<!--T:63-->
 +
Use the token to complete the process - you will be logged in to the CloudAccess.net control panel (CCP).
 +
 
 +
=== Step 6: CloudAccess.net Control Panel === <!--T:64-->
 +
 
 +
<!--T:65-->
 +
[[Image:Launch-Joomla-cloud-access-control-panel.png|center|none]]
 +
 
 +
<!--T:66-->
 +
You will also receive an email with your free site login credentials. It may take a few minutes for your free Joomla site to become available. If you have any problems, open a New Ticket in the CPP and the support team will fix whatever needs fixing. </translate>
 +
 
 +
'''Important:''' Remember to login at least once a month and select the '''Renew''' button in time to keep your free site alive!
 +
 
 +
<translate>
 +
=== Step 7: Access your site === <!--T:67-->
 +
 
 +
<!--T:68-->
 +
To access your site you can select the '''Login''' button in your CPP Your Products panel. It will take you directly to the Administrator Dashboard of your site. Or you can go directly to the subdomain you created (for example myalias.joomla.org/administrator/) and login with the credentials sent to the email address you registered with. </translate>
 +
 
 +
<translate><!--T:40--> It is a simple as that and once your site is up and running, you can start creating content (articles, menu items, modules) right away. You do not need any extensions to build a stunning fully functional website! </translate>
 +
 
 +
<translate>
 +
== CPP Tools == <!--T:69-->
 +
Joomla is managed almost entirely from its Administrator pages. However, from time to time it is useful to have access to system tools for problem solving purposes. Select the Manage button in the CPP Your Products page for access to these tools.
 +
 
 +
<!--T:70-->
 +
[[Image:Launch-Joomla-cpp-manage.png|center|none]]
 +
 
 +
=== phpMyAdmin === <!--T:71-->
 +
 
 +
<!--T:72-->
 +
phpMyAdmin is a utility used to work directly with databases. It really requires experience but experience can be built up as and when problems occur. For access, navigate via Application / Database and then Login to phpMyAdmin.
 +
 
 +
=== Backup === <!--T:73-->
 +
It is important to keep regular site backups of the files and database. Many users install a free Akeeba backup extension to do site backups from within Joomla. You can also create backups via Applications / Manage Backups and select the Create Backup button.
 +
 
 +
=== File Explorer === <!--T:74-->
 +
 
 +
<!--T:75-->
 +
Access to files is sometimes useful, for example to examine Joomla log files that are not directly available from within the Joomla Administrator pages. Access is available via Server / File Explorer and the httpsdocs drop-down list. </translate>
 +
 
 +
<translate>
 +
==How to get help when using joomla.com?== <!--T:12-->
 +
</translate>
 +
<translate><!--T:14-->
 +
Since most of the platform’s functionality overlaps with that of the Joomla! CMS, users are also encouraged to seek help in the [http://forum.joomla.org Joomla! Forum] and in this Wiki Documentation.</translate>
 +
 
 +
<translate>
 +
==Test upcoming releases with joomla.com== <!--T:42-->
 +
</translate>
 +
 
 +
<translate>
 +
<!--T:76-->
 +
Tests are important in an open source project like Joomla as they provide quality assurance for upcoming releases. You can help with testing of new features and bug fixes by installing the [https://github.com/joomla-extensions/patchtester/releases Joomla Patchtester] extension in your free Joomla site. No special skills are required to become a tester! If you have never tested pull requests, the Joomla Documentation provides all the [[S:MyLanguage/Testing_Joomla!_patches|tutorials]] you need. So be part of it, start testing Joomla today.
 +
 
 +
<!--T:77-->
 +
[[Image:Launch-Joomla-patch-tester.png|800px|center|none]]
 +
 
 +
<!--T:78-->
 +
Caveats: You will need a GitHub account and a GitHub token. You will not be able to test pull requests involving CSS and JavaScript changes requiring NPM Resource Changes.
 +
</translate>
  
 
<noinclude>
 
<noinclude>
[[Category:Beginners|Beginners]]
+
[[Category:Beginners|Beginners{{#translation:}}]]
[[Category:Tutorials|Tutorials]]
+
[[Category:Tutorials|Tutorials{{#translation:}}]]
 
</noinclude>
 
</noinclude>

Latest revision as of 06:32, 19 January 2024

Other languages:
Deutsch • ‎English • ‎Nederlands • ‎eesti • ‎español • ‎français • ‎italiano • ‎português • ‎svenska • ‎中文(台灣)‎

What is joomla.com?[edit]

joomla.com is a domain name used to allow individuals to create personal instances of the Joomla CMS in subdomains of the form alice.joomla.com, bob.joomla.com and so on. The subdomains are managed by the CloudAccess.net hosting service. With your own subdomain you can build and maintain a completely free Joomla website for an unlimited time. The free site features all of the Joomla CMS core functionalities that make building a website easy and flexible.

Launching your first Joomla.com site[edit]

If you are new to Joomla and would like to see it in action without downloading and setting it up yourself the process to launch your new Joomla website has never been easier! To get started, navigate to the main launch.joomla.org page and enter the information requested in the sequence of forms, mostly appearing in pop-up dialog boxes.

Step 1: Enter a suitable subdomain name[edit]

Launch-Joomla-homepage-information.png

Alice and Bob are probably taken but you can choose any name that is easy to type and to remember.

Step 2: Select Your Joomla Version[edit]

As this is a new installation it is best to select the latest stable version.

Launch-Joomla-select-version.png

Step 3: Create an account[edit]

Fill in your personal details and select the Register button.

Launch-Joomla-personal-details.png

Notes

  • Email Address: Your email address is used to login to your Cloud Control Panel (CCP) and to send you messages to complete the set up of your account. It must be a valid account. It is also used for a Super User account in your free joomla.com site.
  • Country: This data is used to track where the signups come from.
  • Terms of Service You are required to agree to the Terms of Service available from the link adjacent to the check box. If you agree to sign up for the Joomla marketing campaign you will be sent occasional Joomla marketing emails. This is not a requirement.
  • Problems: If the form does not accept your personal data please send an e-mail with your registration details, whether you want Joomla 4 or 5 and what .joomla.com subdomain you want to sales@cloudaccess.net - the account will then be created manually.


Step 4: Unlock Premium Features[edit]

If you do not wish to Unlock Premium Features for $5 per month you can select NOT NOW to proceed with your free site.

You will shortly receive a 6 digit token on the phone number that you entered.

Step 5: Verify Account[edit]

Launch-Joomla-verify-account.png

Use the token to complete the process - you will be logged in to the CloudAccess.net control panel (CCP).

Step 6: CloudAccess.net Control Panel[edit]

Launch-Joomla-cloud-access-control-panel.png

You will also receive an email with your free site login credentials. It may take a few minutes for your free Joomla site to become available. If you have any problems, open a New Ticket in the CPP and the support team will fix whatever needs fixing.

Important: Remember to login at least once a month and select the Renew button in time to keep your free site alive!

Step 7: Access your site[edit]

To access your site you can select the Login button in your CPP Your Products panel. It will take you directly to the Administrator Dashboard of your site. Or you can go directly to the subdomain you created (for example myalias.joomla.org/administrator/) and login with the credentials sent to the email address you registered with.

It is a simple as that and once your site is up and running, you can start creating content (articles, menu items, modules) right away. You do not need any extensions to build a stunning fully functional website!

CPP Tools[edit]

Joomla is managed almost entirely from its Administrator pages. However, from time to time it is useful to have access to system tools for problem solving purposes. Select the Manage button in the CPP Your Products page for access to these tools.

Launch-Joomla-cpp-manage.png

phpMyAdmin[edit]

phpMyAdmin is a utility used to work directly with databases. It really requires experience but experience can be built up as and when problems occur. For access, navigate via Application / Database and then Login to phpMyAdmin.

Backup[edit]

It is important to keep regular site backups of the files and database. Many users install a free Akeeba backup extension to do site backups from within Joomla. You can also create backups via Applications / Manage Backups and select the Create Backup button.

File Explorer[edit]

Access to files is sometimes useful, for example to examine Joomla log files that are not directly available from within the Joomla Administrator pages. Access is available via Server / File Explorer and the httpsdocs drop-down list.

How to get help when using joomla.com?[edit]

Since most of the platform’s functionality overlaps with that of the Joomla! CMS, users are also encouraged to seek help in the Joomla! Forum and in this Wiki Documentation.

Test upcoming releases with joomla.com[edit]

Tests are important in an open source project like Joomla as they provide quality assurance for upcoming releases. You can help with testing of new features and bug fixes by installing the Joomla Patchtester extension in your free Joomla site. No special skills are required to become a tester! If you have never tested pull requests, the Joomla Documentation provides all the tutorials you need. So be part of it, start testing Joomla today.

Launch-Joomla-patch-tester.png

Caveats: You will need a GitHub account and a GitHub token. You will not be able to test pull requests involving CSS and JavaScript changes requiring NPM Resource Changes.