If you’re starting a website, you’ll need to choose and register a domain name. This might sound overwhelming if you’re new to it, but don’t worry! Our guide is here to make the process easy and straightforward for you.
When you’re ready to create a website, there’s a crucial step before you even start looking at web hosting options: picking your domain name. This is the unique web address that people will use to find your site. Your domain name is like your website’s identity, so it’s important to choose one wisely.
Getting a domain name is pretty straightforward, but finding one that’s available can be tricky. Plus, it’s important to understand the agreement with the domain registrar. If this seems overwhelming, don’t stress! We’re here to guide you through the process.
Domain names act as user-friendly aliases for complex numeric internet addresses. Each device connected to the internet has a unique IP number. A domain name serves as a label for this IP number. For instance, the IP number for “Amazon” is 54.239.26.128. Instead of remembering these numbers, users can use domain names, like “webservices@amazon.com,” for easier communication.
Getting a domain name is easy! You can do it through websites called domain name registrars like A2, GoDaddy, Google Domains, or Namecheap. Just type in the domain you want, pay a fee, and it’s yours. A2 and GoDaddy also offer web hosting, but Google Domains and Namecheap focus solely on selling domains.
When picking a domain name, keep it unique and short. It should be something catchy and easy to remember, like “PCMag.” This makes it easy for people to find your site and boosts your SEO. Research key terms related to your business for an even better domain name.
Short and catchy domain names are often already taken, especially in popular online spaces. Additionally, some people buy up these names to resell them later at a higher price. We’ll talk more about this later on.
If you’re struggling to find an available domain name because it’s already taken or held by cyber-squatters, most domain registrar websites offer tools to help. They’ll show you similar names that are available with different suffixes, like .biz or .org if .com isn’t free.
The suffix in a domain name indicates which top-level domain (TLD) it belongs to. There are many TLD options like .com, .edu, .game, .green, .hiphop, .net, and .org. Among these, .com is the most common and widely used, although it’s not limited to commercial sites as it once was thought to be.
The cost of a domain name can vary widely, from as low as $1 per year to quite a hefty sum, depending on the name and the suffix you choose. For highly sought-after names with popular suffixes, you might need to dig deep into your pockets. For instance, carinsurance.com was sold for nearly $50 million! Additionally, there are domain squatters who buy up names with the intention of selling them later at a higher price. They might even ask for offers starting at $500 or more.
You don’t always have to visit a special domain registration service to get a domain name. Many popular web hosting companies like DreamHost, HostGator, and Hostwinds often include a free domain name when you sign up for their hosting services.
Remember that while free domain names are often offered for one or two years, you’ll eventually need to pay for them annually or every two years. Typically, the web hosting company covers the initial registration fee, but you’ll be responsible for renewals. Also, check if there are any setup fees for getting your domain name. While many services offer free domain transfers, some may charge an additional setup fee on top of the registration fee.
It’s important to know that not every web hosting service allows you to register a domain name directly with them. Take Cloudways, for instance. While they offer excellent hosting services, you’ll need to buy your domain name from another provider before setting up your website with them.
When you register a domain name, you’ll find different options for how long you can register it—like one year, three, five, or even ten. But be cautious about locking in for too long. Why? Well, if the registrar turns out to be unreliable or goes out of business, you might face hurdles transferring your domain. So, always review the registrar’s policies closely before committing.
Many of us assume that once we buy a domain name, it’s ours forever, no matter what. But that’s not always true. It’s crucial to do your homework before making a purchase. The agreement you make with the registrar can have various implications, so make sure you understand it thoroughly.
Some registrars have the authority to take away your domain name under certain circumstances. This usually happens if you use the domain for illegal activities or spamming. Some contracts even allow the registrar to delete your domain without a clear reason, implying that they ultimately own the domain, not you.
Additionally, almost all registrars have the authority to modify the registration agreement without informing you. It’s essential to carefully review each registrar before making a decision.
