WebMatrix: A New Way to Build Your Own Website

Recently, Microsoft released WebMatrix, a web development tool that allows even the most novice user to create their own WordPress blog, find web hosting, and begin publishing. The software doesn't just end there though, as it also contains plug-ins for a number of other CMS (Content Management Systems), including, but not limited to, DotNetNuke, Umbraco, nopCommerce, and mojoPortal. All of these additions are free to install through the WebMatrix interface and they are all very user friendly. There are also a number of very helpful tutorials available if you get stuck.

The first thing I thought when I heard that Microsoft released a new program that rivals (and even tops) Dreamweaver in it's capabilities was cost. How much will Microsoft charge for their new web authoring software? The answer was quite surprising... Nothing!

WebMatrix is available in full function for free.

I decided to try it out on one of my own websites and I found it to be quite useful. I was able to connect it to my own personal web server, update code, test browser compatibilities, and publish on the fly. When combined with Visual Developer 2010 (the two programs work together well), new users can be up and running without the price tag that comes with Dreamweaver.

The only downside I've come across so far comes only from a sense of comfort. I've always done HTML/CSS coding from a terminal screen on Linux because it is where I feel the most comfortable.

New users on the other hand will find WebMatrix to be an extremely helpful tool, especially when looking to set up their own CMS (no coding experience necessary).

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