Microsoft Search is Losing Ground

In February, 2005, Microsoft's MSN Search accounted for nearly 14% of all Web searches, compared with a 46% share from search leader Google, according to research firm Nielsen//NetRatings. Just 2 years later, Microsoft's rebranded Windows Live Search has a 9.6% share compared with Google's nearly 56%. That amounts to nearly 300 million lost searches per month.

Do-It-Yourself Websites

A growing number Internet companies are helping small business owners establish a professional presence on the Web. They'll also help you set up a blog on your site, or you can register on an independent blogging site.

For example, Homestead.com is a one-stop service dedicated to providing small businesses with affordable, easy-to-use tools and services-from hosting to publishing their own Website. It offers toll-free support from its Web experts at any time. Basic prices start at $4.99 per month and go as high as $49.99 per month. Users design their own Website by choosing from 2,000 template designs created for 100 different industries.

NetworkSolutions.com is another do-it-yourself Website service that offers the support of a dedicated designer. You can choose from a gallery of designs for $49.95 per month (plus a $399 one-time design fee) or a custom site for $59.95 and a one-time design fee of $999.