Almost every week I get a reader question about how I found the motivation to start and keep a blog — and many ask specifically about starting a WordPress blog on HostGator. The most important thing is to actually start. You won’t know whether you enjoy blogging until you try it.
I had no idea if I’d like blogging when I began. I jumped in, and before long I was hooked. I love blogging and everything that comes with it.
Side note: Yesterday I published a post marking one year since I left my day job to freelance full time. If it weren’t for blogging, I don’t think that transition would have been possible.
If you’re ready to start a blog, below is a clear, step-by-step guide and HostGator review that explains how to set up a WordPress blog on HostGator easily.
When starting a WordPress blog, choosing HostGator for your web hosting is a solid option. HostGator is popular because it’s affordable and it makes getting a WordPress blog up and running simple.
If you’re still deciding whether to switch from Blogger to WordPress, I strongly recommend switching. I once spent a year on Blogger and regret the lost time. WordPress gives you far more control and flexibility.
Reasons you might choose HostGator for your WordPress blog:
- HostGator is easy to use; I’ve created multiple blogs through them without issues.
- They make installing WordPress straightforward, typically accomplished in a few clicks.
- HostGator provides technical support and a 99.9% uptime guarantee.
- Hosting plans are inexpensive.
- They offer a 45-day money-back guarantee.
- Buying a HostGator hosting plan means you’ll be self-hosted, which is essential if you want to monetize your blog.
Below are step-by-step instructions for how to start a WordPress blog on HostGator. I also include a HostGator coupon code at the end.
To begin, you’ll need to go to HostGator and sign up for hosting. There are many hosting companies available, but HostGator is a top choice for many bloggers because of its combination of price, ease of use, and support. If you prefer, Bluehost is similar and also a good option.
I use affiliate links in this post; if you choose to use them I appreciate it. If you’re ready to start, follow the steps below.
Register your domain name
The first step to launching a WordPress blog on HostGator is choosing and registering a domain name. Many people buy domains through GoDaddy, and that’s what I typically do. After registering a domain at GoDaddy, you can use HostGator for hosting.
You can also buy a domain directly from HostGator. While that’s convenient, it’s often preferable to keep domain registration and hosting separate, so buying the domain through GoDaddy is a common recommendation.
Select a HostGator plan
HostGator’s hosting plans are inexpensive. Plans often start around a few dollars per month, and longer billing cycles give better savings. During checkout you can enter a coupon code for additional savings.
When creating your account with HostGator’s order wizard, you’ll register a new domain or enter a domain you already own, confirm package type and billing cycle, and choose a username and security PIN. For a single blog, the basic (Hatchling) plan is typically sufficient, and you can upgrade later if needed.
I usually recommend choosing a one-year or longer term because longer terms provide better value. Many bloggers choose a two- or three-year plan.
Connect your domain to your hosting
If you bought your domain through GoDaddy, you’ll need to point it to HostGator by updating nameservers. GoDaddy provides straightforward instructions for setting nameservers. The steps are simple:
- Log in to your GoDaddy Account Manager.
- Next to Domains, click Launch.
- Select the domain name you want to modify.
- From the Nameservers menu, choose Set Nameservers.
- Under Setup type, select Custom.
- Choose Add Nameservers.
- Enter the two nameservers provided by your hosting provider. In HostGator’s control panel you’ll find entries that look like ns1234.hostgator.com.
If you need more help, HostGator has support documentation covering how to change DNS and nameservers.
Install WordPress through HostGator
After you set up your HostGator account, check your email for account details and a link to your control panel (cPanel). From there:
- In cPanel, scroll to the “Software/Services” section and click “QuickInstall.”
- Select “WordPress” from the QuickInstall options.
- Click Continue and choose the domain where you want to install WordPress.
- Enter your admin email, site title, admin username, and your name.
- Click “Install Now.” Save the username, password, and the link to your WordPress admin dashboard.
Finish setup and begin creating
Congratulations — you’ve installed WordPress on HostGator. From here, focus on selecting a theme, customizing your design, and writing high-quality content. Building an audience takes time and consistent effort, but you now have the technical foundation to start.
If you’re considering themes, the Genesis framework is a popular and reliable option on many blogs. For email newsletters, AWeber is a commonly used service for managing and sending subscriber emails.
If this guide was helpful and you plan to sign up for HostGator, consider using their affiliate link and any available coupon code during checkout to save on your plan.