There are many different types of blogging software packages that have been created over the past few years. Most software will fall into one of the following categories:
- Hosted software – by far the most basic and easy to create because you do not have to worry about anything, but creating an account. It is similar to creating a free e-mail account where you enter a few pieces of information such as name and e-mail address.
- Open source software – most blogs will fall into this category where you can download the software and install in on a web server that you have access too.
Most software is free to use; However, if you are interested in having more control or features many of the hosted software allows you to upgrade your account for a fee.
Here is just a short list of blog software that is hosted and available for free:
- Live Journal
- Blogger
- Word Press – has both a free hosted service and a version that can be downloaded and installed on a web server
- Opera
- Typepad – a paid hosted subscription that allows for a 14 day trial
There are plenty of different blogging software packages to choose from and my no means this list is an endorsment. Please consult the Create A Blog web page at Stanford University for some more information about blogs.