This tutorial provides useful information about using the FrontPage 2000 program. However, this is by no means intended to replace the documentation provided by Microsoft Corporation. To learn the basics of the FrontPage system, please consult Microsoft’s FrontPage documentation at the following URL:
http://www.microsoft.com/frontpage/
Microsoft FrontPage 2000 is a software package that allows you to easily create and maintain Web sites, without requiring an in-depth knowledge of HTML or FTP. This is made possible by the FrontPage system, which consists of two parts:
The FrontPage Client program that runs on your personal computer, purchased through a software vendor.
The FrontPage Server Extensions that reside on the server and come preinstalled on your account.
Together, the two communicate with each other to formulate a seamless 'behind the scenes' upload and publishing process. All you need is a general understanding of FrontPage, which is very similar to Word, Publisher, and other Microsoft-based applications.
Before exploring all the features and options of FrontPage 2000, it is important to know that there are two ways in which you can create and modify your Web site:
Option 1: Open your Web site directly from the server and make live changes to the site.
Option 2: Create your Web site on your local computer then 'upload' the finished Web site to the server.
There are advantages and disadvantages to both methods. If you choose to open your site directly from the server and make changes (Option 1), your site will be updated immediately, however, you have no backup in the event of server downtime, data corruption, or data loss. If you choose to create Web site content on your local computer then upload the finished Web site (Option 2), you will have a safe backup of the entire Web site, but the process is considerably longer than making changes directly to the site.
The method you choose is a matter of personal preference. Many Web site administrators and Webmasters use both methods.