Creating a website no longer requires coding skills, expensive hosting plans, or web development experience. In 2026, anyone can build a free Google website using Google Sites, Google’s official website-building platform.
However, many people still confuse Google Sites with the old Google Business Profile websites that ended with .business.site domains. Those websites have been permanently discontinued by Google, and visitors to those URLs now encounter 404 error pages.
If you want to build a free website on Google today, Google Sites is the platform you should use.
This guide walks through every step of creating a professional Google Sites website from scratch.
What Is Google Sites?
Google Sites is a free website builder included with every Google account.
It allows users to create:
- Personal websites
- Portfolio websites
- Small business websites
- Team portals
- Project websites
- Internal company sites
- Educational websites
Unlike traditional website builders, Google Sites requires no coding knowledge.
What You Need Before Starting
Before creating a free Google website, make sure you have:
- A Google account
- A stable internet connection
- Images or content for your website
- A clear purpose for the site
Once you have these, you can begin.
Step 1: Open Google Sites
- Sign in to your Google account.
- Visit Google Sites.
- Click the Blank template or choose a pre-designed template.
- A new website editor will open.
This is where you’ll build your website.
Step 2: Name Your Website
Choose a website name that reflects your brand or purpose.
Examples:
- Marketing Hub
- John Smith Portfolio
- Tech Insights
- ABC Consulting
To set your website name:
- Click Untitled Site.
- Enter your website name.
- Add a page title for your homepage.
Keep the title short and easy to remember.
Step 3: Select a Theme
Google Sites includes several built-in themes.
To choose one:
- Click the Themes tab.
- Browse available designs.
- Select a theme that matches your brand.
- Adjust colors and fonts.
Consistency improves professionalism and user experience.
Step 4: Create Your Homepage
Your homepage is the first thing visitors see.
Include:
- A clear headline
- A short description
- A featured image
- Call-to-action buttons
Example:
Welcome to ABC Consulting
Helping businesses grow through digital marketing, SEO, and branding solutions.
Best Practices
- Keep headlines simple
- Use readable fonts
- Avoid cluttered layouts
- Focus on one main message
Step 5: Add New Pages
Most websites need more than one page.
Common pages include:
- Home
- About Us
- Services
- Blog
- Contact
To create a page:
- Click Pages.
- Select the plus (+) icon.
- Enter the page name.
- Click Done.
Repeat for all required pages.
Step 6: Insert Content
Google Sites makes content creation simple.
Click the Insert tab to add:
- Text
- Images
- Buttons
- Videos
- Maps
- Files
- Documents
Content Tips
- Use short paragraphs.
- Add descriptive headings.
- Include relevant images.
- Avoid excessive text blocks.
Well-structured content improves readability.
Step 7: Add Images and Media
Visual content increases engagement.
To add images:
- Click Insert.
- Select Images.
- Upload from your device or Google Drive.
You can also embed:
- YouTube videos
- Google Maps
- Google Docs
- Google Sheets
- Google Slides
This integration is one of Google Sites’ biggest advantages.
Step 8: Create Navigation Menus
Navigation helps visitors find information quickly.
Google Sites automatically creates menus based on your pages.
To improve navigation:
- Keep menu names short.
- Use logical page organization.
- Avoid creating too many menu items.
Simple navigation improves user experience.
Step 9: Add Contact Information
Every professional website should include contact details.
Add:
- Email address
- Phone number
- Contact form
- Business address
- Social media links
This builds trust and credibility.
Step 10: Optimize for Mobile Devices
Most users browse on smartphones.
Before publishing:
- Click Preview.
- Check the mobile version.
- Verify text readability.
- Ensure images display correctly.
Mobile-friendly websites perform better for visitors.
Step 11: Configure Website Settings
Before publishing:
- Add a site logo
- Upload a favicon
- Set navigation preferences
- Configure sharing permissions
These small details improve branding.
Step 12: Publish Your Google Website
When everything looks good:
- Click Publish.
- Choose a website address.
- Review settings.
- Publish the site.
Your website is now live.
Can You Use a Custom Domain?
Yes.
Although Google Sites provides a free URL, you can connect a custom domain purchased from a domain registrar.
Examples:
- yourbusiness.com
- yourbrand.com
- yourportfolio.com
A custom domain looks more professional and strengthens brand identity.
Advantages of Google Sites
Google Sites offers several benefits:
- Completely free
- No hosting fees
- No coding required
- Mobile responsive
- Secure infrastructure
- Easy collaboration
- Google Workspace integration
These advantages make it ideal for beginners and small businesses.
Limitations of Google Sites
Despite being useful, Google Sites has limitations.
These include:
- Limited design customization
- Basic SEO options
- No advanced e-commerce features
- Fewer third-party integrations
- Less flexibility than WordPress
Businesses planning significant growth may eventually require a more advanced platform.
Google Sites vs the Old Google Business Profile Websites
Many users still search for ways to create a Google Business Profile website.
It is important to understand that Google permanently shut down those websites.
The old .business.site websites no longer function and now display error pages.
If you want a free Google website in 2026, Google Sites is Google’s official and recommended solution.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Google Sites free?
Yes. Google Sites is completely free for anyone with a Google account.
Do I need coding skills?
No. Google Sites is designed for beginners and requires no coding knowledge.
Can I connect a custom domain?
Yes. You can connect a custom domain for a more professional appearance.
Is Google Sites good for small businesses?
Yes. It works well for portfolios, local businesses, startups, and informational websites.
Can Google Sites rank on Google Search?
Yes. Google Sites pages can appear in search results when properly optimized and indexed.
Final Thoughts
Building a free Google website in 2026 is easier than ever. With Google Sites, users can create professional websites without paying for hosting or learning web development.
Whether you need a portfolio, business website, project hub, or informational site, Google Sites provides a straightforward way to establish an online presence. Just remember that the old Google Business Profile websites have been retired, making Google Sites the primary free website-building solution offered by Google today.
