How to get started
What you need
Getting started with a Flat File CMS is remarkably simple compared to traditional CMS platforms. Here's what you need: a domain name ($10–15/year from providers like Namecheap, Cloudflare, or Porkbun), shared hosting with PHP support ($15–50/year — that's not a typo, basic shared hosting is very affordable), an FTP client (FileZilla is free) or file manager in your hosting panel, and about 30 minutes of your time.
That's it. No MySQL database to create. No server configuration. No SSH access. No command line. If your hosting has PHP (and virtually all hosting does), you're ready.
Typical installation process
While each system has its own specifics, the general process is remarkably consistent across Flat File CMS platforms. Download the CMS files from the official website. Upload them to your hosting via FTP or file manager. Open your domain in a browser. Log in to the admin panel and start adding content. The whole process — from download to working website — typically takes under 10 minutes. Compare that to WordPress: download files, create database, create database user, assign privileges, edit wp-config.php, run installer, configure settings, install security plugin, install caching plugin, install backup plugin, update everything. The difference in complexity is dramatic.
Cost comparison
Agency/freelancer: $2,000–$15,000+ one-time, plus $500–2,000/year for maintenance and updates. Professional results, but significant investment.
Website builders (Wix, Squarespace): $180–$600/year in subscription fees. Easy to use, but costs accumulate and you never own your site.
WordPress (self-hosted): $100–$500/year for hosting, premium theme ($50–100), essential plugins ($100–300/year for premium ones), plus your time for updates and maintenance. "Free" software that isn't free in practice.
Flat File CMS: $15–50/year for basic hosting, domain $10–15/year. Some systems are free, others have modest license fees. Total: typically under $100/year for a complete, professional website. Many systems need only the most basic hosting plan available.
Tips for choosing the right system
Consider these factors when making your choice: How technical are you? (If not very — choose systems with intuitive admin panels.) Do you need multilingual admin support? (Important for international teams.) How many pages will your site have? (Under 50 — any Flat File CMS will work perfectly.) Do you need built-in features or are you comfortable with plugins? (Some systems are feature-complete out of the box, others rely on extensions.) What's your budget? (From free to a few hundred dollars — there's an option for every wallet.) Will non-technical people edit the site? (Prioritize admin panel usability.) Read the detailed reviews in our Flat File CMS systems section, try one or two systems on a local environment or test hosting, and you'll quickly find the right fit.
