Webmasters used to have to download local copies of software to perform even the most basic tasks. From design to coding to monitoring uptime, it was the norm at one point in history to pay for a piece of software, download it to your computer, and then access it when you needed to perform a certain function. That worked fairly well when you were able to power up the computer on which you installed that software, but didn’t work at all when you were at work and, say, your website needed a quick update and you didn’t have your usual software tools at your disposal. These days, almost anything you can imagine can be done online, including routine webmaster tasks. Here are a few web-based webmaster tools you should have in your toolbox.
Image editing
Web-based image editors give you the power to create and alter images from any computer and any location.
Adobe Photoshop Express: Adobe Photoshop has been the go-to image editing program for graphic designers for years. The normally pricey application can now be used free of charge on the web.
Pixlr: Photo editing service Pixlr is an excellent photo manipulation tool that’s easy to learn and use. Use Pixlr online or download the Android or iPhone app for image editing power on-the-go.
HTML tools
Many popular web hosting control panels now feature built-in HTML editors. And while these apps will get the job done, they’re generally missing the more advanced features that can really make your website pop.
HTML Instant: If you’re familiar with basic HTML tags, HTML Instant is a joy to use. Type your code on the left-hand side of the screen and HTML Instant will output the real-time results on the right side of your monitor. Pushing the source button will then let you copy the code to your clipboard so that you can paste it into your existing website.
HTMLEditor.in: This is a WYSIWYG HTML editor that mimics the look of Microsoft Word, so both beginners and seasoned webmaster alike will be able to get work done quickly.
Website uptime
Knowing when (and even if) your website is offline may help you to reach out to your web hosting company more quickly and get your money making site back online.
Uptime Robot: This free tool will monitor up to 50 websites free of charge, checking your site stats every five minutes. If your website goes down, Uptime Robot can notify you of the trouble by email, SMS, RSS, Twitter or push notifications.
Down For Everyone or Just Me: While your website may appear offline for you, it may not really be down. This ingenious site pings your hosting server from multiple locations to determine whether or not your domain is really offline.