When it comes to domain registration, there are a few questions you should ask to ensure a successful registration. Here are some basics to guide you through your business domain name purchase.
What is a domain name?
Some people are still confused about the difference between URLs and domain names. Domains allow business owners to establish themselves online with a unique name. URLs, on the other hand, are the addresses given to a browser.
A domain name contains a top-level domain, or TLD, at the end, such as .com, .net, and .org. There are a wide variety of TLDs available in addition to these, including country-specific names, and more new domains are being introduced all the time. Some examples include .asia, .design, .info, and more.
What is the registration cost?
Domain prices differ between registrars, with special offers and different packages you can choose from affecting your price. Be sure to find the best service for your needs. Compare prices and see what you get with each purchase to ensure you get the best value from your transactions.
Where do I buy a domain name?
Basically, all registrars have the same access to the domains you need, but service and benefits are some of the things you need to take a closer look at.
Should I go for the cheapest price?
Although low prices are very attractive, they are not necessarily the only things you should consider when registering your domain. Keep in mind that while many providers offer very affordable prices for a one-year registration, there can sometimes be hidden fees. Also, prices will increase with add-ons and after the first year.
Is domain privacy necessary?
Registering a domain requires a Whois.com listing, a rule set by ICANN (the organization responsible for coordinating the maintenance and procedures of Internet namespaces). There, your contact details are visible to the public. Many spammers use such directories to compile lists of people to target with offers and scams, leaving you vulnerable to spam emails and phone calls.
Many domain providers offer privacy features, where instead of your contact information, a proxy will be included to prevent spam. We recommend that you use this service to ensure that your private information is not easily found online.
What other things should I take note of?
It is very important that you renew your domain to prevent someone else from taking it from you. Many people forget to renew their domains and lose them to others who may refuse to sell them or ask for much higher prices. This results in loss of business and customer contact.
As the expiration date approaches, you will be notified, so be sure to renew your domain on time. Different registrars have policies on grace periods and fees, so be sure to check that out as well.
I have registered my domain, what next?
The company you signed up for may offer web hosting services, so you should research them to make sure they have what you need for your website.
If your domain provider doesn’t offer web hosting, you can take advantage of it elsewhere.
The same advice applies to the website builder, through which you can create your website.
These top questions on how to register domain names and their answers will help you in your own registration process. Remember that the most important thing is to find a registrar that fits what you are looking for and that’s it.