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Introduction (1/3)
Introduction (1/3)
If you've ever wondered how the heck domain registrations work, you're in the right place. In this three-part blog series, we're gonna break it down for you, starting with the basics. So, grab your energy drinks and geek glasses; it's about to get techy!
Date: 2007-08-14
Author: Simon Jackson
Part 1: The Basics
Part 1: The Basics
If you've ever wondered how the heck domain registrations work, you're in the right place. In this three-part blog series, we're gonna break it down for you, starting with the basics. So, grab your energy drinks and geek glasses; it's about to get techy!
What's a Domain Name, Anyway?
What's a Domain Name, Anyway?
You know when you type something like "google.com" in your browser? Well, you just typed a domain name. It's essentially your website's address on the internet. A domain name comes in two parts: the top-level domain (TLD), like ".com" or ".net" and the second-level domain (SLD), like "google." or "microsoft."
Why Register a Domain?
Why Register a Domain?
Domain registration a way of `staking your claim` on a plot of digital-land. It reserves you exclusive rights to use that web address for your own website, email-addresses behind the domain name, and other online reputation. Of course, nothing comes for free, you have to `renew` it every year to keep it, though.
Meet the Domain Registrars
Meet the Domain Registrars
To snag a domain name, you need to work with a domain registrar. Registrars are legitimate domain-name issuers on the internet.
Some popular ones include GoDaddy, Namecheap, and Google Domains. Registrars don't set out the rules for domain-registration either; those are set out as a framework of rules to be honoured by any registrar selling domains underneath the given top-level domain name (TLD).
Hunt for the Perfect Domain Name
Hunt for the Perfect Domain Name
Not all cool domain names are created equal. You've gotta search for one that's not already claimed. The registrar's search tool is your best buddy here. Type in your dream domain, and it'll tell you if it's up for grabs.
Keep an eye out for robots: They scrawl your domain-name search history and often issue a domain-name back-order; moments before you get the chance to checkout.
Best do some online research away from registrars; you know company names, trademark names etc - before landing your business idea for a domain-name purchase.
Types of Domain Extensions
Types of Domain Extensions
There are literally hundereds of 'em, each with its vibe. Go with ".com" if you wanna play it safe, but other TLDs can be cool too, depending on your site's vibe. Hence why i chose ".me" for my domain name.
Registration Duration and Renewal
Registration Duration and Renewal
When you register a domain, it's yours for a set time, typically 1, 2 or 3 years. Don't forget to renew it before it expires; otherwise, someone might swoop in and snatch it away. Many registrars offer auto-renewal to save you from that nightmare.
Conclusion
Conclusion
That's the lowdown on the basics of domain registrations, my fellow internet geeks. In Part 2, we'll dive into navigating your way around your domain, messing about with DNS registration settings, and why domain privacy is kinda a big deal these days.
Looking for part 2? click here
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