Using websites with pupils in a classroom setting has many benefits as it can be an effective cross curricular way to integrate technology into lessons in a range of subjects. Children are highly motivated when using computers in their lessons and it is useful to be able to use this motivation to enhance their learning.

When choosing appropriate websites for pupils to use to carry out research or find information it is essential that the teacher has previously viewed the site to check for suitability and relevance. If the website has been designed well and is working correctly the pupils will have a positive experience and have minimal frustration.

It is important to teach the pupils about search techniques so that the websites they use are relevant and useful to them and provide them with the information they require. There are child safe search engines that pupils can be directed to use so that the search results are appropriate to the age of the child.

Using the links on the website effectively to direct the pupil to pertinent pages is an important skill for them to master as often there will be an abundance of information on the home page which may not be relevant to their query.

If you run a small business with a limited marketing budget it is essential that your website is cost effective and that the purpose for having a website is clear.

The first thing to consider is whether your website is attracting visitors. Your site should be well thought out and professional looking. This is a reflection of your business and will for some customers be their first contact with you. All the links should work and direct the customer to the relevant pages. There is nothing more frustrating than links that don’t work.

Your business name and contact details should be clear and accurate. A map is a useful addition to have if customers are coming to you.

Having a page for positive customer testimonials is a good strategy as they are often read by potential clients and can be invaluable to the success of your business.

If it is possible to negotiate with other related businesses to have inbound and outbound links this will indicate that you are a useful resource and it can help improve search engine results.

Social media links are an essential feature of a successful website and these should be prominently displayed on the home page.

Many of us use the internet as part of our daily lives. It may be that you do your banking online, order your weekly food shop or simple use it to keep in touch with friends and family via social media. Over the past decade online security has become even more important and it is crucial that you know how to protect yourself in order to eliminate the risks of a cyber-attack.

Many of us are simply not aware of what to look out for and innocently could be giving away our person details to these fraudsters, opening ourselves up to spam and worse still fraud.

When visiting a website it is vital that you know what to look out for. If the site redirects you on to another site and looks odd, then it probably is odd so don’t use it. Never click a link that has been sent to you without confirming it is genuine. If in doubt, visit the site through your browser by searching on Google for the website.

If the website is asking for person details, always check that you are using a secure connection as open wifi networks can sometimes be compromised.

All too often people get calls from companies claiming they have an issue with their computer and that they can talk you through how to fix it. Internet companies do not do this unless you have registered a fault with them, so if in doubt hang up the phone and call the usual number for your internet provider.