Ok...That's why the code looked so convoluted!
Though all of the microsoft OFFICE products (word, excel, powerpoint, publisher, access) CAN make a web page, they should not be used to make full websites. The HTML code they write is so over worked the pages can take 2-5 times longer to load, even for simple pages. Yes we have all made pages with those programs at some point but in the long run you are far better off using a real website building software.
SO...what type and which would be best for you?
Choosing web software is totally personal. We each have different abilities and we don't think alike. The basic concepts are the same but each program has it's strengths and weaknesses. You will need to try them on and see if they fit YOU. I might be able to help narrow it down.
A) online site builders. Don't use one of these. Though very easy and fast to build they have great limitations and the worst is when the service drops or pricing changes, you are STUCK. The web pages have to stay on the server where built because you can not edit them any where else.
B) Website software installed on your machine. Better choice than online for portability. You can move the site to a new host if need be (hate doing it but it is possible).
Now you have a choice to decide if you want an HTML EDITOR or an HTML GENERATOR.
1) Editors: CuteHtml and programs like it allow you to write your own HTML/PHP, etc code. Some offer a split window or second window that you can see the code and the general layout as you build. Even Notepad is a basic HTML editor. Some of these are free, some paid. For you, this is not your best option.
2) Generators: TONS of these! An HTML generator is a program that allows you to work in an interactive environment and may or may not allow you to edit the code directly. Some allow you to insert code snippets while building the rest of the page for you. Others allow you to direct access the code to TWEAK. Most of these are paid for if you want something that does more than just a simple web page, if you want any control at all.
I have used a few "freebies" while assisting folks but was unimpressed with any of them for more than the minimum web page.
So.... which of the hundreds of programs would be right for you? I can't tell you that.
I can tell you that we are looking at several programs here at samisite forum as replacement for other discontinued software. One of them may be a good fit for you.
On the main page of the forum, there are SEVERAL pieces of software with their own sections and links to reviews about the products. Most of the software has a we have listed have a trial periods for testing before purchase.
- Dreamweaver is professional grade web building software with a large $$ and steepest learning curve. We have users of Dreamweaver here at samisite but it is not in the price range for most of our visitors. Most of our folks don't want that heavy grade software. The other ADOBE products are very interesting but again, pricey.
- Microsoft Expression Web is professional grade web building software that costs far less. Has some features I LIKE and some quirks that just drive me nuts because I am not on a WINDOWS server. I prefer Linux server. (see my comments on it)
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Site Spinner (virtualmechanics.com) seems to be the most popular choice so far. You might give it a try, 15 day free trial. $49 for standard, $99 for pro. I will be making tutorials for this product to add to samisite and they have a large forum on their website so this program seems to offer quite a bit for the money, seems to be stable and have a future, with ease of use. NO FRAMES but Iframes can be used. (The pro version even allows users to make MOBILE websites for phones so I purchased it on sale 40% off in December. Haven't had the chance to work with it yet.)
- And others that have been listed, tested and tried. I own a few of the ones listed but am still actively using a program that is discontinued most often. Sadly I can not recommend it to you as I know YOU would like it!
No one at this site, or because of this site makes money or any compensation for talking about these programs. We are just seeking alternatives and testing programs to support other folks as they leave the software we have been using. Several of us have used many pieces of software over the years so we have a good basic understanding of websites. We have no motive other than we like to help folks and are always glad to see a new person come on board! Even for just the games.