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Selling online · 2026 edition
How to create a website: the steps in order
A useful website is not judged on looks but on the number of customers it brings in. Here is how to build it in the right order, what it costs and the rules to follow.
- The stages
- Budget
- Legal notice
Updated October 2026Rules checkedNo jargon
Creating a website in 30 seconds
In short
To create a website, first define its goal and its visitors, then register a domain name and hosting. Write clear texts, add a visible way to get in touch, and publish the legal notice, the privacy policy and cookie management. You can do it yourself, use a ready-made platform or hire a professional.
A domain name
Short, easy to say, in your own name.
Visible contact
Phone, form or WhatsApp on every page.
Required legal information
Legal notice, privacy and cookies.
Building your website step by step
The order matters: starting with the design often wastes time.
How much does a website cost?
Prices vary a lot. These rough figures help you compare quotes.
| Method | Starting budget | Who it suits |
|---|---|---|
| Yourself, ready-made platform | A few euros to a few tens of euros a month | Small budget, time available |
| Freelancer or small agency | Often from a few hundred to a few thousand euros | Professional business website |
| Custom online shop | Several thousand euros | Catalogue, payment, delivery |
| Yearly costs | Domain name, hosting, maintenance | All websites |
These are rough indicative figures. Always ask what is included: texts, photos, SEO, maintenance and ownership of the site.
What the law requires of your website
The same rules apply to a small business website and to a large online shop.
Legal notice
Business identity, contact details and registration number, as required by EU e-commerce rules, plus any extra details your country asks for.
Privacy
The GDPR requires you to explain what data your forms collect.
Cookies
Non-essential cookies require consent. Make refusing as easy as accepting.
Selling online
Terms of sale, right of withdrawal and consumer dispute resolution according to your country's rules. Accessibility requirements also apply to online shops, except microenterprises.
A website that works while you work
The website brings in enquiries. Automations handle them without letting anything slip.
Instant reply
Every enquiry gets a clear acknowledgement.
Centralised enquiries
All contacts land in a single spreadsheet.
Appointment booking
The customer picks a free slot and you are notified.
Reminders
Quotes you send are followed up at the right time.
Your questions, our answers
How can I create a website for free?
Some platforms offer a free plan, often with an unprofessional address and adverts. For a business, a domain name in your own name is strongly recommended.
How much does a website cost for a small business?
From a few euros a month if you do it yourself, to a few thousand euros for a custom website. Compare what is included, not just the price.
What legal information must a website display?
The business name, contact details, registration number and VAT number where applicable. Some countries ask for more, such as the hosting provider's details. Add a privacy policy and cookie management.
How long does it take to create a website?
A simple business website can be done in a few days if the texts and photos are ready. An online shop takes longer.
How do I get my website to appear on Google?
Submit your site to Google, write pages that answer your customers' questions and create your Business Profile. Results usually come after several weeks.
Does a business website need a cookie banner?
Yes, as soon as the site uses non-essential cookies, such as analytics or advertising. Without those cookies, a simple notice is enough.
Sources: Directive 2000/31/EC on electronic commerce · GDPR and cookie guidance from your data protection authority · European Accessibility Act, Directive (EU) 2019/882 · EU consumer rights rules (Your Europe, europa.eu).
General information, up to date as of October 2026. It does not replace advice from a professional.
Website creation
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