How would you create a social networking site?

Question

Hi, i'm 12 and know PHP, HTML, a small bit of ASP.NET and am learning Java Script, i have already got a CMS ! Does anyone know what programing languages i need and how to get my Server towers online. And just so you know i spend nearly all my time on a computer so i have pretty much all day everyday to complete this goal,

Thanks, Brandon

Answer 1

Seems like we have everything, now to find the brains...

I don't know exactly what you mean but if your talking about a social site like facebook, try comming up with something people would want or need, then create a site where people have to register and be members to get it (PHP). Finaly create a means of communication between the members eg by a unique identifier for all members that can be available to all but only allows the owner to view messages to them.

dont forget to approve the messages before fowarding them.

Answer 2

I suggest you read OpenSocial its google API for social sites http://code.google.com/apis/opensocial/

More computer tips at

http://www.review-ninja.com

Answer 3

As you may know a domain name is just a name, not a real website. If you are going to create your website: 1- Buy a domain name. 2- Buy a web hosting service to provide your online space and enable you to get your website online at your purchased domain name.

If you want to start your website I recommend purchase your domain and hosting together. In this way it is possible to get your domain for free. Some hosting services offer this gift today.

One of these services is reachable at: http://bluehost-service.atspace.com . Their service is really great and easy to use.  

Answer 4

The one key language you didn't mention is MySQL, or a similar database backend.

I don't think anyone on is here is going to walk you through the steps of creating a Social Networking site. What I do suggest is that you look at several popular Social Networking sites you do like and attempt to copy the best features from each by reverse enginering the programing and basic database setup. But you will need to come up with your own unique twist, niche, to stand out from the crowd. Thats going to be the hard part but it could help to make your site really take off if your idea rocks.

You might wish to also study up on AJAX as it adds a nice real time touch to your web pages.

To get your Server Tower online you will need a router to be able to share your internet between your computers if you don't already have one. Running your own web host server is a good way to learn, but if your really serious you will probably wish to pay for professional web hosting later on. Otherwise plan to spend alot of time learning all about Apache, PHP, MySQL, linux, security and constantly keeping all of them servers patched and secure. And I didn't even mention email and FTP servers... Best to leave the hosting to the pros.