How to Create a Website Using GitHub?

GitHub isn’t just a platform for managing code; it’s also an excellent tool for hosting websites. Using GitHub Pages, you can create and deploy a website for free, whether it’s for a personal portfolio, a documentation site, or an open-source project.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to create a website using GitHub Pages, from setting up your repository to publishing your site.

What is GitHub Pages?

GitHub Pages is a feature of GitHub that allows you to host static websites directly from your repositories. It supports HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and Jekyll—a static site generator. GitHub Pages is ideal for personal websites, project documentation, and more.

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Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Website Using GitHub

Step 1: Set Up a GitHub Account

If you don’t already have a GitHub account, follow these steps to create one:

1. Go to GitHub.
2. Click Sign Up and follow the instructions to register.

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Step 2: Create a New Repository

1. Log in to GitHub.
2. Click the + icon in the top-right corner and select New Repository.
3. Fill in the repository details:

• Repository name: Use a meaningful name, like my-website or your GitHub username (username.github.io) for a personal site.
• Description: Optionally add a description of your project.
• Visibility: Choose Public (required for GitHub Pages to work).

1. Check Add a README file and click Create Repository.

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Step 3: Add Website Files

You can add your website files (HTML, CSS, JavaScript) to your repository:

Option 1: Upload Files Directly on GitHub

1. Go to your repository.
2. Click Add file > Upload files.
3. Drag and drop your website files or select them manually.
4. Commit the changes by clicking Commit changes.

Option 2: Push Files Using Git

1. Clone your repository to your local machine:

   git clone https://github.com/username/repository-name.git

2. Navigate to the repository directory:

   cd repository-name

3. Add your website files to the repository folder.
4. Stage and commit the files:

   git add .
   git commit -m "Add website files"

5. Push the changes to GitHub:

   git push origin main

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Step 4: Enable GitHub Pages

1. Navigate to your repository on GitHub.
2. Click the Settings tab.
3. Scroll down to the Pages section (on the left sidebar).
4. Under Source, select the branch you want to publish from (usually main).
5. If your website files are in a specific folder, specify the folder (e.g., /docs).
6. Click Save.

GitHub will process your files and publish the site. You’ll see a URL like https://username.github.io/repository-name/ where your website is live.

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Step 5: Customize Your Website

1. Update Content

Modify your HTML, CSS, or JavaScript files to customize the look and feel of your site. Commit and push the changes to update the live site.

2. Use a Jekyll Theme (Optional)

Jekyll makes it easy to create and manage static websites with themes. To use a Jekyll theme:

1. Go to the Settings tab in your repository.
2. Scroll to the Pages section.
3. Select a theme under Theme Chooser.
4. Click Select theme to apply it.

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Step 6: Test Your Website

After enabling GitHub Pages, visit the provided URL to view your live website. If there are issues, double-check your file structure, branch settings, and any error messages in the GitHub Pages settings.

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Tips for Success

1. Keep it Simple: Start with a basic HTML site and gradually add complexity.
2. Leverage Resources: Use free tools like Bootstrap or templates to enhance your site.
3. Optimize Performance: Minify your CSS and JavaScript files to improve loading speed.
4. Use Custom Domains: Connect a custom domain to your GitHub Pages site via the Pages settings.
5. Monitor Changes: Always test your site locally before pushing updates.

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Alternatives to GitHub Pages

If GitHub Pages doesn’t meet your needs, consider other hosting options like:

• Netlify: Free hosting with continuous deployment and custom domains.
• Vercel: Ideal for modern front-end frameworks like React or Next.js.
• GitLab Pages: Similar to GitHub Pages but integrated with GitLab repositories.

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Conclusion

Creating a website using GitHub Pages is an excellent way to share your work online. With its ease of use, free hosting, and integration with Git, GitHub Pages empowers developers and non-developers alike to build and deploy websites effortlessly.

Start creating your website today and showcase your projects, portfolio, or ideas to the world.