Manage Website From Mobile & Tablet - Easy Guide

The Evolution of Mobile Website Management

Approximately a decade ago, I acquired my initial mobile device, a HP Pocket PC. This device, when connected to wireless networks, allowed me to access the internet and utilize a rudimentary version of Internet Explorer for web browsing.

My focus quickly shifted from viewing websites as an end-user to exploring their underlying infrastructure. I began using the mobile browser to access administrative panels of websites I helped manage.

This trend has continued and expanded over the years. It has evolved from simply emailing blog posts to needing the capability to comprehensively manage an entire website directly from a mobile phone or tablet.

A Defining Moment

The necessity of this capability became particularly clear during a recent vacation. I was tasked with editing and publishing content for my personal website while away.

It was during this experience that I discovered that a conventional, platform-specific mobile application was insufficient for my needs.

Full website control, beyond basic blogging functions, proved to be essential for effective remote management.

This realization highlighted the growing demand for more versatile mobile website management solutions.

WordPress

WordPress stands out as the leading blogging platform and warrants inclusion in any discussion of website management tools.

The developers offer applications for six distinct platforms, demonstrating a clear commitment to enabling publishing access for all WordPress blog owners.

Platform Support & Features

This accessibility is achieved through support for both WordPress.com hosted accounts and self-hosted blogs utilizing the software obtained from WordPress.org.

The mobile applications provide a comprehensive suite of features.

• Users can monitor website statistics.
• Content creation is facilitated through post writing and editing.
• Posts can be directly published from mobile devices.
• Comment moderation is readily available.
• Multiple blogs can be efficiently managed.

These mobile versions empower users to maintain their online presence while on the go.

All available versions of the WordPress mobile app can be located at http://wordpress.org/extend/mobile/.

Google Analytics

Numerous web analytics platforms are available for website implementation, yet Google Analytics remains the most widely used. Following account creation and code integration into your website(s), a dedicated tool is essential for accessing and interpreting the collected data.

Accessing Analytics Data

The importance placed on analyzing website statistics varies among users, often correlating with the amount of traffic a site receives. Although constant monitoring of page views should be avoided, Google Analytics provides a wealth of information, much of which can be conveniently accessed through mobile applications.

For Android users, a complimentary Google Analytics application is available for installation. Similarly, Analytics for iPad is offered at no cost. Additional, paid applications are also accessible on the iOS platform.

Mobile App Options

• Google Analytics (Android): A free application providing access to key website metrics.
• Analytics for iPad: A free app designed specifically for iPad users.
• iOS Paid Apps: A range of commercial applications offering potentially enhanced features.

These mobile apps allow for convenient monitoring of website performance, regardless of location. They provide a streamlined way to stay informed about visitor behavior and key performance indicators.

FTP Tools

Many website control panels provide file management capabilities, allowing users to upload and remove images, documents, and other media files.

However, when these built-in features are lacking, utilizing an FTP utility can simplify the process of transferring files between your web server and your device.

FTP Options for Mobile Devices

For iOS users, FTP Manager Free is accessible through iTunes.

Android users can leverage AndFTP, a widely used and complimentary application.

FTP Solutions for Other Platforms

Currently, MyFTP represents the most affordable option for Windows Phone at $1.29, though its functionality is limited to data transfer from a SkyDrive account.

Several FTP tools are available for BlackBerry devices, with BEIKS BeFTP being a previously available, free choice.

• FTP provides a method for file transfer when web hosting control panels lack sufficient functionality.
• Different operating systems have varying FTP client options.

Choosing the right FTP tool depends on your specific device and requirements.

HTML and Text Editors for Mobile Management

For effective website administration, particularly on tablets rather than smartphones, HTML and text editors are indispensable tools. Although many web applications offer browser-based editing capabilities, these can often prove cumbersome and inefficient.

Therefore, it's advisable to utilize a dedicated plain text editor capable of handling HTML, CSS, and other code types.

Recommended Mobile Editors

Users of iOS devices previously found Blog Docs to be a suitable option, though it is currently unavailable.

Alternatively, Visual HTML Editor EYE represents a cost-effective solution, priced at $1.99.

These editors provide a more streamlined and precise method for making changes to your website's underlying code.

Domain Ownership and Server Oversight

Determining the registration details of domain names and IP addresses can often be a tedious process for those responsible for website administration. This is frequently due to the circumstances necessitating such checks.

Fortunately, several mobile applications streamline this task, making it both faster and more manageable.

WhoIs Lookup Tools

Android users can locate the WhoIs application developed by Magma Mobile within the Google Play Store. This application is available at no cost.

For individuals utilizing iOS devices, Free Whois was previously a widely used solution; however, it is currently unavailable.

Server Status Monitoring

Regularly assessing your web server's status is crucial for understanding, and potentially anticipating, periods of diminished performance.

Android platform users can benefit from installing the Server Status application, which is offered free of charge.

iOS users will find Pingdom to be a particularly valuable tool for server monitoring. However, utilizing Pingdom requires an existing account.

• Key Benefit: Proactive server monitoring can help prevent downtime.
• Important Note: Ensure you have the necessary account credentials for Pingdom.

By leveraging these mobile tools, website administrators can efficiently manage essential aspects of their online presence.

Leveraging Your Mobile Browser for Website Management

In certain situations, utilizing a mobile browser can serve as a valuable, even essential, alternative to dedicated applications. It allows access to functionalities that may not be present within apps.

A common example involves the WordPress mobile application; certain versions lack the capability to select an image for inclusion with a published webpage. In such instances, accessing the website through a browser becomes the necessary solution.

Benefits of Using a Mobile Browser

Depending on the browser's capabilities, you may be able to access analytics and other data related to website visitors. Furthermore, previewing pages before publication is a highly beneficial feature often available through a browser interface.

Therefore, the mobile browser should not be disregarded. While it may not replicate the full functionality of a desktop website management experience, it continues to offer significant utility.

Even if it isn’t capable of performing all the tasks a desktop version can, the mobile browser remains a helpful tool for website administrators.

The Advantages of Mobile Website Management

While desktop computers traditionally served as the primary tools for website administration, the landscape is evolving. Managing a website from a desktop offers a more comfortable and efficient experience.

However, the increasing sophistication of mobile applications now provides a viable alternative, allowing for website tasks to be completed on the go.

The Rise of Mobile Website Management Apps

Recent advancements in mobile technology have led to the development of powerful applications designed for website management. These apps offer a range of functionalities, making it increasingly feasible to handle essential tasks remotely.

This shift enables users to break free from the constraints of a fixed workspace and maintain their online presence from virtually any location.

Key Benefits of Mobile Management

• Convenience: Perform updates and monitor performance regardless of location.
• Responsiveness: Address urgent issues promptly, minimizing potential downtime.
• Flexibility: Manage your website during travel or outside of standard office hours.

Essential Tasks Manageable on Mobile

A wide array of website management tasks can now be effectively handled through mobile applications. These include content updates, performance monitoring, and basic troubleshooting.

Analytics review, quick edits to text or images, and even publishing new posts are now within reach via smartphone or tablet.

Final Thoughts

Although desktop-based website management remains the preferred method for many, the capabilities of mobile apps are rapidly expanding. It’s becoming increasingly easy to operate a website effectively without being tethered to a desk.

We are interested in hearing about your preferred mobile applications for website administration. Please share any recommendations or insights you may have.