Frequently Asked Questions
Here is a list of frequently asked questions, divided into various categories. If you have a question that isn't covered here, please get in touch with us.
- Setup FAQs
- Price FAQs
- Troubleshooting FAQs
How do I get my own domain name?
When you sign up, simply let us know the domain name you wish to use (e.g. www.yourname.com). If the domain name is available, we will register it for you.
Who owns the domain name?
You do, even though we pay domain registration and setup fees for as long as you are a ProAuthorSites member (annual subscribers only). You are free to transfer the domain name to a registrar of your choice at any time.
What if I have already registered a domain name?
We will provide you the information you need to change in your domain control panel so it "points" to our hosting server.
How long will it take to set up my site?
We ask for 10 business days, though typically it takes a lot less than this.
What will the site initially contain?
Sites are initially set up with "dummy text" which can be easily deleted and changed using your actual text. It's good practice to try this yourself, but you can forward us a copy if you'd prefer us to do this for you.
How much "initial content" can I send you to set up my site?
You may send us up to 10 content items (max 300 words each) and up to 5 images. Insertion of code (such as for Paypal buttons) is not included in initial setup; however step-by-step tutorials on doing this yourself will be available on the site.
Yes, absolutely. ProAuthorSites is based on the Joomla Content Management System, which means you don't need to know a word of code. The editing interface is similar to what you'd see in a text editor like Microsoft Word®. You can always contact us for assistance.
Can I modify my text or add new articles?
Yes and yes.
Can I add pictures?
Yes. We'll have tutorials posted soon on optimizing your pictures for the web so your pages don't take too long to load.
Can I embed YouTube videos in my site?
Yes. Look for a tutorial on this shortly.
Can I add MP3s on my site?
Yes. Please make sure you have the rights to the audio files though, to avoid contravening our Terms of Use.
Can I add links to other sites?
Yes.
How do I set up/delete an email account associated with my site (e.g. This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it )?
You need to login to your domain Control Panel (e.g. www.MySite.com/cpanel). Click on Add/Modify Email Accounts and follow the steps as described in the control panel.
How do I configure my mail program (e.g. Outlook or Mac Mail) to download my emails?
When you add an email account, at the final step you will be provided with the settings you need to configure your mail program. Alternately, click on the "Configure Outlook" link next to your email address and you can download a script to your computer. Double-click on this file to auto-configure your mail program.
Can I check my mail online?
Yes. Simply type "/webmail" after your site name (e.g. www.mysite.com/webmail", and then enter your email address and password.
What does it cost to get my own website through ProAuthorSites?
There is a one-time setup charge and a yearly subscription fee. For complete pricing details, click here. For a feature list, click here.
What if I want to pay by month?
You can opt for a no-contract option (which means you pay each month and can cancel at any time), but the setup and monthly costs are higher. For complete pricing details, click here.
Will my subscription cost increase at the end of my term?
No, your rate is guaranteed never to go up as long as you are a ProAuthorSites member.
Will my price increase if I add a lot of content?
No, your cost stays the same.
How do I make payments? Is it secure?
Payments are processed securely through Paypal. You do not need to have a Paypal account to make payments, Paypal also accepts major credit cards.
What if I need to set up something (say, an advanced photo gallery) that is not currently available as a standard feature?
Add-on features are available at a low one-time setup cost. Let us know what you're looking for and we'll tell you how much it would cost.
Is an email address available with this plan?
You can set up 5 email addresses at no extra charge. Addresses can be added or deleted via your hosting Control Panel.
What is your renewal policy?
If you are an annual subscriber, you will be sent an automated renewal notice at the end of your term. As long as you are a renewing subscriber, your price is guaranteed not to increase, no matter what the price for new subscriptions is at that time.
What if I do not renew now, but choose to sign on again later?
You would have to pay the posted rate at the time you sign on, including the setup charge.
What is your cancellation policy?
Subscriptions continue until you choose to cancel. A 30-day notice is required to cancel.
If I cancel at the end of my term, what happens to my website domain name?
You retain the rights to your domain name at all times. While we pay your annual domain registration charges as long as you are a subscriber, you will need to continue making these payments directly to the registrar after you end your ProAuthorSites subscription. You are free to transfer the domain to a registrar of your choice at any time.
How do I access my website administration backend?
In your web browser, enter your site name, then type "/administrator" (e.g. www.mysite.com/administrator). In the login panel, enter the Username and Password you were provided after your site was set up.
I forgot my password. What should I do?
Contact us and we'll send you a new password.
A feature on my Content Editor does not work. What can I do?
- Try using a different browser. (While on the topic, if you haven't been introduced to Firefox yet, try it! It's faster, safer and more code-compliant than a certain other browser that shall remain nameless). Download it here
- Try dropping the 'www' before your site name in the address field (e.g. http://mysite.com/administrator instead of http://www.mysite.com/administrator)
- If that does not help, get in touch with us.
Got a question that isn't posted here? Get in touch with us and we'll get it sorted out.