When it comes to domain registration, there are a few questions you need to 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 go online with a unique name. URLs, on the other hand, are the addresses that are 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 cost of registration?
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. Shop around and check what you’re getting with each purchase to make sure you’re getting the best value for 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 should take a closer look at.
Should you 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. Please note that although many providers offer very affordable prices for a one-year registration, sometimes there can 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 list, 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 encourage you to 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 lost business and contact with customers.
Once the expiration date approaches, you will be notified, so make sure you 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 with 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 about registering 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.
