 Domain names in the past was a
complicated and expensive process, but now thanks to low-cost
registrars and web hosts who let you register a domain name when
signing up for hosting, it can be simple and cheap if you know where
to go. Read on to get up to speed on what domain names are, the
process of registering domain names, and where you can get a domain
name for the best price.
What is a domain name?
To keep things simple, a domain name is the way users find your
web site on the internet. When a visitor types in your domain name
in their web browser, such as www.yoursite.com your site will pop
up. Registering a domain name is the process of choosing and signing
up for a domain name for your site.
When registering a domain name you have many options for domain
extensions (the letters following the dot) such as: .com, .net,
.org, .info, .biz, .us, .ws, etc. Domain extensions help the viewer
know what kind of site it is, for example: a .com is a general web
site or commerce site, .net refers to internet or computer services
web site, .org is reserved for organizations, .biz is a new one for
businesses, etc. You will have the opportunity to choose the domain
extension, as well as the name of your domain when you register. Be
aware that prices for registering domain names may vary by which
domain extension you choose.
Do I need a domain name?
You must register for a domain name before you can secure a web
host for your site. If you want a web site, you need a domain name.
Registering domain names can be done in one of two ways:
1) You can go to an actual a domain registrar, such as
WEBiFF
to choose, sign-up and pay for a domain name. The advantages to
registering with an actual domain registrar are, it is usually
cheaper and you have access to the domain name no matter who you
decide to host with.
2) Many web hosts give you the opportunity to register a domain name
directly previous to signing up for web hosting, during the sign-up
process. Registering for a domain name with your web host is the
easiest way to register a domain name because the host takes care of
all the dirty work and you are set up quickly with a domain name and
web host all in one blow. However, registering a domain name with a
web host isn’t usually the cheapest way to go. |
