All you need is a graphics program-- and possibly an animation program-- to create banner ads. You may already have both on your machine. If you don't, may I suggest Paint Shop Pro and Ulead GIF Animator? BannerTips.com also has a list of free banner-creation tools on their site.

For those of you already familiar with graphics programs, here are the standard pixel dimensions for banner ads.

• 468 x 60 Full Banner
• 234 x 60 Half Banner
• 392 x 72 Full Banner with Vertical Navigation Bar

If you're lazy and you want someone else to do the work and you don't want to spend any money, there are people who will make banners for free.

The reliability of such free services is hard to measure. Usually, the companies or individuals offer this service for promotional purposes. They generally ask that you link to their site.

Whatever route you choose, keep the above tips in mind and get your banner ads made and out the door.