Enter The WebMatrix

Last summer, Microsoft announced a collection of new tools for creating websites on Windows, wrapped into a package called WebMatrixDmitry Lyalin, Andrew Brust, and I discussed it on the Connected Show back in July 2010. I also spoke on it recently at WordCamp NYC 2010 back in October.

After six months and three beta releases, WebMatrix went live today, January 13, 2011!  The WebMatrix team launched the toolset today at CodeMash in Sandusky, OH.  This is a GREAT tool and is very easy to get up and running building a website on Windows. The best part is that it’s FREE!

[UPDATE 1-14-2011:] The recordings of the WebMatrix launch at CodeMash 2011 are now available on Channel 9!

Via the WebMatrix site

What Is WebMatrix?

WebMatrixRibbon WebMatrix is a brand new web development tool from Microsoft that includes everything you need for website development. Start from open source web applications, built-in web templates or just start writing code yourself. It’s all-inclusive, simple and best of all free. Developing websites has never been easier.

Create Your Website

WebMatrixCreateNewTo get started creating websites, just download and install WebMatrix using the Microsoft Web Platform Installer. You’ll be up and running less than 5 minutes! Once WebMatrix is installed, we make it simple to get and install the latest version of your favorite free web applications such as WordPress, Joomla!, DotNetNuke and Orchard.

Customize Your Website

WebMatrixCustomizeOnce you’re up and running, you will find that WebMatrix provides all the tools features you’ll need in a single unified interface. Say good-bye to switching between multiple applications just to perform common web development tasks. With WebMatrix, you’re always just a click away from easily editing your files, managing your database and modifying your server settings.

Publish Your Website

WebMatrixPublishWhen you’re ready, WebMatrix provides a no-hassle way to show the world your website. Just access our hosting gallery from WebMatrix and you’ll find a hosting provider that is guaranteed to run your site smoothly while also allowing you to publish directly from WebMatrix.