How to start a YouTube channel

Many users would like to start a YouTube channel, whether it's to broadcast their videos, showcase their gaming interests, or subscribe to other people's channels. The process for doing this changes depending on whether or not you have a Google Account. We recommend you create one because it is also used with many of their other services (e.g., Gmail). However, there are also steps for those who don't want a Google Account.

Creating a Google account

As we said before, we recommend creating a Google account if you don't have one. It is quick and convenient and is used with many of their other services.

1. Visit the Google account creation page.
2. Fill out the form on the right side of the screen.

Creating a YouTube channel with a Google account

1. Go to the YouTube website and click the button in the upper-right corner.
2. Use your Google account information to sign into YouTube.
3. Once you've signed in, try some action that requires a channel, such as posting a video or comment on someone else's.
4. You should be prompted to create a channel, click Confirm to continue.

Creating a YouTube channel without a Google account

You can make a YouTube channel without a Google account, but it's less convenient (for use with other Google services) and requires more steps.

1. Go to the YouTube website and click in the upper-right corner.
2. On the next screen, click the text that says Sign in with a different account.
3. On the next screen, click Add account.
4. Fill out the form that appears.
5. Check the box next to "I agree to the Google Terms of Service and Privacy Policy."
6. Click the Next Step button.
7. Verify your e-mail address by heading to that address, signing in, and clicking the link in the e-mail from Google.