It’s easy to confuse a domain name with a web hosting. This seems to be such a basic question for an experienced web designer, but this article is directed to a beginner web designer or small business owner that needs a reference for their new website plans. I will explain to you the difference, how does it work and how your brand name can help your website SEO.
First of all, let me answer this question. What is a domain name? The simple answer is the name that you type in your browser to reach a website (www.domain.com). Well, this is not the only function of a domain. It can also be used for an email account ex. ([email protected]). In other words, you can use it for both functions at the same time or you can choose one without the other. Want to learn more? Let’s get started!
All About Your Website Name
Register a Domain Name
Registering a domain name is a simple process for any mortal. Anyone with access to the internet can do it. I say its a simple process because you don’t need to fill complicated paperwork or need to ask for special permission to buy one. If you need to buy a name for your website, just visit one of the most popular domain registrars. These website names are managed and sold by an organization called domain registrar. A domain name can be any combination of letters, numbers followed by the extensions of your choice (.com, .net and more).
There are three simple steps for registering a domain name.
- Visit a domain registrar
- Choose your name & extension ex. (.com, .net)
- Pay for your domain
What does it mean to ‘Buy’ domain name?
We always talk about buying a domain name but in reality, you are only renting or lending it. The truth is that registries own all of their names. Their service is simply to offer customers the opportunity to reserve those domains for a limited amount of time.
There is a maximum amount of time you can reserve a domain. Typically, you can lend it for one year and no more than ten years at a time. After 10 years, registrars let you keep renewing indefinitely. Therefore, you never truly own the domains.
Where can you buy a name for your website?
There are a lot of different domain registrars out there. It’s really important to consider that not all domain registrars have the license to sell them all. Commonly large and reputable companies have a greater selection to choose from. Usually, a non-popular website name can cost you around $10 – $15 per year.
Highly popular names can cost hundreds of dollars depending on the demand of the words or keywords‘ popularity. The length of the name and the popularity of the words in the name are a key component of the value or the domain. When you deciding in a name for your website make sure you choose the right name that describes your brand. The right name can really make a difference in your branding strategy.
When choosing the best domain name registrar, You should look at the following four criteria:
- Pricing and Registration Period
- Domain Transfers Policies
- Domain Expiration Policies
- Add-on & Services
Most Popular Domain Registrars
Here is a list of the most popular domain registrar that you can find on the internet.
*Take into consideration that if registration period expires and you don’t renew, you might lose your website name forever.
Victor Hugo Solis
Master’s Degree in Information Security, a Bachelor’s Degree in Database Administration, and experience as a WordPress Web Designer & Developer.
