Most every blogger knows how to find a blogging server or set up and buy a domain. The basics of setting up a blog for fun or profits are everywhere online. But what about what is beyond the basics? The type of insider information that comes from actually running a blog? In this article I want to talk about four lesser-known tools that all serious bloggers should have for a chance at the greatest success.

FTP Software
File Transfer Protocol (FTP) software will help you upload large files to your blog servers. I mostly use it for uploading Wordpress plugins and themes but entire web pages and photo galleries can quickly and easily be uploaded using this FTP program as well. Not so long ago many FTP programs were available for free but lately more and more companies have decided to charge for their software. There are still a few free FTP softwares out there. Just search online for "Free FTP". Also Cpanel recently added FTP programs as part of their offerings.

Feed Reader
Feed readers are also known as feed aggregators. Feed readers keep track of all the RSS feeds you are interested in and allow you to read them in one easy location. This is a good way to stay in the know about what is going on in your niche without having to surf endlessly throughout the day. I personally use Bloglines and I like them just fine but there are dozens of other feeders out there to choose from.

Social Networking Accounts
Even online it's all about who you know. Or more importantly, who knows you. Social networking therefore becomes an integral part of running a successful blog online. Facebook is a popular place which I find more professional than MySpace although many bloggers are on MySpace too. Specific blog communities exist as well and should be joined as quickly as possible as well as any groups specific to your niche(s). You can easily find these groups by searching online.

Sign Up For a Twitter Account
"What are you doing?" is the question everyone wants the answer to. You can use twitter to connect to and exchange information with people who share your interest and to keep others updated on what is going on with your blog, your professional, and your personal life. It is another way for your readers to get to know you.

While you may get by without these tools, your success as a blogger will greatly increase by using them.

For more information on blogging and how to make money online, visit http://www.nichebloggingforprofit.com

Jennifer Carpenter is a work at home mother of three, two teens and a preschooler. She is a writer and Internet marketer who is currently working towards financial freedom through working online. Read more about her incredible journey at http://www.livingmybigdream.com