The Advantages and Disadvantages of Creating a Free Website

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Creating a Free Website

The domain of creating a website has been simplified and democratized over the last few years. People do not have to be computer geeks to create a site that meets their needs. Among the tools that emerged, many offer the possibility to create a website for free or for a small price. It is an attractive offer, but what are the advantages and disadvantages of creating a free website?

The advantages of making a free website

Did you know that the majority of sites and blogs created with WebSelf are free? It is an interesting option if it is the first time you want to start this project.

It is free

Of course, the most important advantage of free websites is that it is free. You only need to devote some time and ideas to it. Free websites are a relevant option if you want to start or try a new project and your budget is limited. And if your needs change with time, you will always have the possibility to choose a premium plan later. Consequently, everybody has the opportunity to create a website, whatever their financial situation.

It allows you to try the website builder

Since there are several website builders, finding the one that meets your needs can be challenging. Fortunately, most of these tools offer free trials or packages. You can then take the time to familiarize yourself with their features without the pressure of having already paid. For example, WebSelf do not have a time limit to try their tool and create a free website.

You have an online presence

Moreover, one of the main advantages of having a free website is that it allows you to have an online presence. Indeed, your website can be seen by visitors and potential customers. You could also add links to your site from your social networks. Remember that a website is the basis of your online presence. It is a more complete and professional tool and social media most of the time. 

You have access to basic features

If you want to create a free website, please note that you will have access to many essential features to help you. For example, on WebSelf, you can add galleries, forms, videos, blog articles, maps, buttons, etc. Even our website templates are free. In sum, we think that you have everything you need to create a basic site.

The disadvantages of making a free website

We want to be transparent; unfortunately, there are not only benefits to making a free website. Although it costs nothing, it does not give you access to all features and elements to ensure to have a professional-looking website.

You cannot have a customized domain name

Whether it is WebSelf or other website builders, free offers do not allow you to have a customized domain name. Of course, every free site or blog comes with a domain name, but it will include a mention of the builder. For example, free websites created with WebSelf has a domain name like this: www.mybusiness.webselfsite.net. If you want a domain name like www.mybusiness.net, you must choose one of the premium plans.

The SEO will not be as efficient

You can work on your free website SEO; however, the result will differ from a premium site. First, you will not have access to all the SEO features. Then, it is better to get a customized domain name. We are not saying that it will be impossible to see your free site appear in search results, but achieving it will be much more challenging.

You do not have access to all features

As we mentioned, a free site will not allow you access to all features, especially the more advanced ones. Once more, everything depends on what you need on your site; take the time to define your needs. For example, if you need to create a website with WebSelf, note that the features like the online store, multilingual module, and email collectors will be provided only to those with a premium subscription.

It could have a negative impact on your credibility

Finally, if you want to start a serious business, a free website could harm your professional credibility, at least in the long term. It is mostly details, but these are essential elements. For example, you cannot change the Favicon and have a customized domain name. It will also say that you have created a free site. How will your potential customers see this? If you sell products or services, your visitors might ask why you are not able to pay for a subscription for your website.

In conclusion, a free website may meet your needs. It could be a relevant option if you need a basic online presence and your budget is limited. For example, with WebSelf, you have the opportunity to create a five-page site for free. And if you need to level up, here are our tips on creating a website with a small budget. Good luck!