We use the catch-all phrase of Search Engine when talking about search websites, but really there are three main types of search sites:

> What is a Search Engine?

> What is a Web Directory?

A directory is formed by human beings that arrange websites into categories and allow visitors to search their human-made databases for sites they are looking for. A few examples of web directories:

> Yahoo has its own directory, in addition to a search engine. You can search their directory through categories and by keyphrases. The Yahoo directory accepts paid listings.
> Google also has its own directory. It is comprised of websites listed in the largest human-edited directory The Open Directory Project. The only way to get into the Google directory is by being listed for free in the Open Directory Project.
> Looksmart is a directory, where listed websites pay a set amount (currently 15 cents) each time someone clicks their link.

> Side note: A very small, but important (well, at least I think) directory is our very own WAHM Mall at Internet Based Moms. :)

> What is a Pay-per-Click Search Engine?