Domain Names
Domain Name Guide
What is a domain name?
Domain names are like an address, they are your place on the web and are how users find or visit your website.
They were created because every computer that is connected to the Internet is identified by a unique IP address, a sequence of numbers that are not attractive or memorable to the outside world. So the need to have a more memorable way for a person to reach a particular website was needed, and the result – domain names.
Domain names are made up of a series of strings, each separated by a dot. The last string of a domain is referred to as the top-level domain (TLD), the second level is the name, for example ‘siteopia’ in www.siteopia.com and a third level refers to the www. part.
There are many different TLDs, with new ones launched more and more frequently, each TLD is operated and controlled by a particular organisation, called registries.
Why do you need a domain name?
- Having a domain name shows your business as professional
- Many people register their domains to make sure that no one else can trade or benefit on the business name or brand they have built
- Registering your domain names now gives you time to develop a business idea you may have
- Domains and websites give your business exposure to many potential customers who they may not be able to reach without an online presence.
Choosing your domain name
There are several reasons why it is important to select a good domain name. Your domain name is your address and identity on the Web, its how your clients or customers will look for you and find your website. Your domain name also helps you to promote your business in everyday tasks, such as sending an email.
When choosing your domain name there are some important things to consider:
- Short memorable domains or names that sound good are often easier to remember and your visitors may be more inclined to enter this directly into their web browser.
- With powerful search engines, descriptive domain names can also be useful for people searching for a specific product or service.
- Avoid complicated spellings or abbreviations as this may lead to typos and confusion.
- Think about a name that contains strategic keywords to help your site get better search engine rankings, resulting in more traffic and visitors. If your visitors can not remember your domain name, they can then easily search for your site using the relevant keywords. Domains with a strategic keyword related to their industry have a distinct advantage on search engines.
- Try to choose at least one of the most popular domain extensions. In the UK the .com or the .co.uk are the most popular and memorable. Other extensions such as .net, .org, .info are growing in popularity and are good alternatives if your .com or .co.uk are not available. Other extensions such as .tv, .me or International domains are great if you have a specific presence on the web or play their role in brand protection and SEO strategies.
How to register a domain name
Your initial goal should be to create your online presence through a domain name and website. There are many companies who can offer you domain registration, hosting or there are some fantastic DIY web site builder tools now available for you to use. If you website is more complex, then you can save time and money by talking to a web design company, but be sure to select the right one for your needs.
Domain names can be registered through many different companies (known as “registrars”)
You can register your domain name for multiple years, which is often good for creating longevity for your name.
If you select a trusted and well respected domain supplier they will handle the registration process for you. There are many companies offering to register domain names, but be careful to choose one where you will remain as the domain owner, or that you won’t be charged for simple operations such as name updates or excess renewal prices.