Setting Up Your First Wix Account
Learning Objectives
- Create and configure a Wix account for your website
- Navigate the main areas of the Wix dashboard
- Manage account settings, permissions, and billing options
Introduction
Starting your website begins with creating a Wix account. This platform makes website building straightforward for beginners, whether you're planning a simple site or an online shop. This chapter covers the essentials of setting up your Wix account properly, so you have everything in place before you start building.
Lessons
Creating Your Wix Account
Getting your Wix account up and running takes just a few minutes. Here's what you need to do:
Step 1: Go to wix.com and click "Get Started" or "Sign Up"
Step 2: Enter your email address and create a strong password
Step 3: Choose whether you're building for yourself or a client
Step 4: Complete the verification process by checking your email
Use an email address you check regularly, as Wix sends important updates about your account and any sites you build. If you're planning to build websites for clients, consider using a business email address to keep things professional.
Navigating the Wix Dashboard
Once you're logged in, the Wix dashboard becomes your home base. Here are the key areas you'll use most:
My Sites: Shows all your websites in one place. You can create new sites, edit existing ones, or manage multiple projects from here.
Templates: Browse hundreds of pre-designed templates for different types of websites and businesses.
App Market: Add extra features to your site like booking systems, chat widgets, or marketing tools.
Ascend: Wix's built-in business tools for managing customers, bookings, and marketing campaigns.
The dashboard layout stays consistent, so once you know where things are, you can work more efficiently across all your projects.
Managing Account Settings and Permissions
Your account settings control important details about your Wix experience. Here's how to access and manage them:
Step 1: Click your profile picture in the top-right corner
Step 2: Select "Account Settings" from the dropdown menu
Step 3: Update your personal details, contact information, and preferences
For billing and subscriptions, look for "Billing & Payments" in the same menu. This shows your current plan, payment methods, and renewal dates.
If you're working with others, you can add contributors to your sites. Go to your site's dashboard, click "Settings," then "Roles & Permissions." Enter their email address and choose what level of access they need.
Practice
Create your Wix account and spend 10 minutes exploring the dashboard. Try clicking through the different sections to get familiar with where everything is located. Don't worry about building anything yet – just get comfortable with the layout.
FAQs
What happens if I forget my Wix password?
Click "Forgot Password?" on the login page. Wix will email you a reset link. Check your spam folder if you don't see it within a few minutes.
Can I manage multiple websites from one Wix account?
Yes, your account can hold multiple sites. You'll see them all listed in the "My Sites" section of your dashboard.
How do I upgrade my Wix plan later?
Go to "Billing & Payments" in your account settings. You can compare plans and upgrade at any time. Changes usually take effect immediately.
What's the difference between free and premium Wix plans?
Free accounts include Wix branding and use a Wix subdomain. Premium plans remove ads, give you a custom domain, and include more storage and features.
Jargon Buster
Dashboard: Your main control panel where you manage sites, settings, and account details
Contributor: Someone you've given permission to help edit or manage your website
Premium Plan: Paid Wix subscriptions that unlock additional features, remove ads, and include custom domains
Template: Pre-designed website layouts you can customize for your own content
Wrap-up
Your Wix account is now ready to go. You know how to navigate the dashboard, manage your settings, and add contributors when needed. Next, you'll choose a template and start building your first site. The dashboard will become more familiar as you use it, so don't worry if everything doesn't stick immediately.
Ready to start building? Check out our next chapter on choosing the right template for your website.