Newbie looking to install

[irish80ca]

Hi Guys,

 

Ive been thinking of starting up my own website for a while and luckly came across osCommerce when making a purchase from a current user.

 

Can anyone give me the basics of what this is all about and where I can find step by step instructions on how to install this template, configure it, and upload it to my service provider.

 

Do I upload the Catalog file to my service first, then make the changes when I go to my domain address. Is there anything special I need to have (programs) in order to us this.

 

What about finding info on security and accepting payments (maybe with Paypal).

 

Is it possible to set up a site with this program where I sell programs, pictures, etc. to be DOWNLOADED (no physical products to be shipped) after payment is made.

 

Any help-advice would be great. Thanks in advance!!!!!!

[Jack_mcs]

You need a host that offers php and mysql. You then need to create a database with your hosts tools. After that, follow the install instructions that come with the oscommerce zip file. You will probably run into problems snce it sounds like you have not done it before. Just ask here when you do and someone will help you.

 

Once installed, the shop is pretty much ready to run. You will need to add your own products and set up the details in the shop (like email addresses). You will, of course, need a PayPal account and a registered domain name. The account is easy to setup at PayPal. But once you do all of that, you can, conceivably, start selling.

 

It is a great package but it does have a steep learning curve so be patient and you will be rewarded. :)

 

Jack

[irish80ca]

You need a host that offers php and mysql. You then need to create a database with your hosts tools. After that, follow the install instructions that come with the oscommerce zip file. You will probably run into problems snce it sounds like you have not done it before. Just ask here when you do and someone will help you.

 

Once installed, the shop is pretty much ready to run. You will need to add your own products and set up the details in the shop (like email addresses). You will, of course, need a PayPal account and a registered domain name. The account is easy to setup at PayPal. But once you do all of that, you can, conceivably, start selling.

 

It is a great package but it does have a steep learning curve so be patient and you will be rewarded. :)

 

Jack

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

 

Thanks for all your help Jack. I am a first timer but like to mess around with stuff like this and figure it all out. Hopefully it's not too hard!

 

Thanks again,

 

Paul

[irish80ca]

Is there a way to design my website on my computer first before finding a host and uploading it.

 

I know with programs like Micromedia Dreamweaver you can design a site and see what it looks like first. Can this be done here with osCommerce?

 

Im just trying to wrap my head around how this works.

[Jack_mcs]

Not exactly the way you are used to with DW but it is possible, You need to install a mini-server on your computer. The easiest package, IMO, to use for this is EasyPHP. Once you install it, you can create a local copy of your site and view in on your computer. It won't be an all-in-one package like DW but it is a lot nicer than having to upload and test on your server.

 

Jack