What is a Domain Name and Where Can I Buy One?
Although there are many technical ways to explain it, a domain name is basically just a website address. It is alias for an IP address which generally looks something like: 00.111.222.33. Instead of typing in a complicated IP address that almost anyone would have a hard time remembering, you simply type in a domain name and it gives you the exact same content. For example, the domain name of google.com is pointed to a specific IP address. It is much easier for people to remember google.com than a long numeric code.
Domain names are a hot commodity these days and everybody wants one. However, a domain name isn’t necessarily related to a website. In fact, if you have ever sent anyone an email, you have used a domain name. For instance, if you frequently communicate with your brother via email and send messages to the address of mybro@mail.com, “mail.com” is the actual domain behind that email account.
Now that you have a better understanding of what a domain name is, we will discuss how to select one and where to register it. Granted, it all seems pretty straightforward but choosing a domain for your website can be very difficult. This is an important decision that requires a lot of thought, especially if you’re looking to the use the internet to market yourself. It would be so easy if you could simply come up with a catchy name that everyone remembers and be done with it. Unfortunately, that just isn’t the case. In fact, all the cool, catchy domains that come to mind have probably already been registered. This calls for you to refocus and come up with a secondary name that is just as catchy and memorable as the first. After going to register a name and striking out a few times, you will learn how challenging picking a good domain can be.
For the sake of this article, let’s assume you came up with the perfect domain on the first try. Its catchy, memorable and you were the first to think of it. What now? Now it’s time to find a service to register it. Domain registration companies, more commonly known as registrars, are the people you need to seek. There are many registrars to choose from and all pretty much offer the same service. The biggest difference is the price and quality of service you get. Below are two popular registrars we highly recommend:
GoDaddy: In most instances, you simply can’t go wrong when doing business with an established company trusted throughout the world. This is the case with GoDaddy, a leading domain name registrar. Not only do they offer domain names, but registration at a very competitive price.
Domains at Retail: Though not as well known as GoDaddy, Domains at Retail is another reliable domain name registrar. This company has been in the domain name game for a while and even offers additional services to help keep your name protected. Yes – domain name thieves do exist.
Your Web Host Provider: Keep in mind that your web hosting provider, or the web host that you may choose to host your new domain, may offer free domain name registration, or registration services at a greatly reduced rate.
Good luck in choosing a domain name. Many of the good ones are gone but if you’re clever enough, you can come up with a name that suits you just right.
