Are you planning to create a website for the first time? If yes, then you have to choose a domain name. It is the first thing to do when creating a website.
So, what exactly is a domain name, what is it used for, how can I buy one and where should I buy it? Continue reading to find out more.
What is a domain name?
A domain name in simple words means the address of a website. The domain name is what internet users type in the URL section of their browsers to access a website.
For example, if a website is a house then the domain name is the physical address of the house.
A good example of a domain name is google.com, the domain name for Google.
The internet comprises of a huge network of servers that are interconnected via a network of cables.
Each computer in the network has a special IP address that makes the process of identification seamless.
Internet protocol (IP) like 55.543.65.2 is a series of numbers used to identify computers on the internet. Unlike domain name, IP address is quite difficult to remember.
And with hundreds of millions of computers on the internet, remembering each IP address of your favorite websites can be challenging.
Domain names are designed to make it easy for users to visit a website. Unlike an IP addresses that contain a series of numbers that are difficult to remember, domain names are very easy to remember.
Instead of typing a string of numbers, all you need to do is type an easy-to- remember domain name on the browser address to visit the website.
A domain name can be a combination of any numbers or letters. Before a domain is used, it must be registered to make it your own.
It is important to note each domain name is unique, meaning that two websites cannot have the same domain name.
What is it used for?
To make a site memorable
One of the top reasons why people use domain names is that it makes it easy for their target users to access their websites.
Unlike IP addresses that are difficult to remember, domain names are simple and very easy to remember.
Domain names make it easy for internet users to access websites.
To increase brand awareness
Besides making it easy for your target users to access your website, a well-thought-out domain name can help to increase brand awareness.
For instance, if your website deals with giving people tax tips, then a domain name like taxtips.com can help to market your site.
More so, each time a person types the domain name on their browser, your brand will stick in their minds.
To establish credibility
A domain name that is similar to your business name helps to establish credibility. It makes your website appear more professional and legitimate to your target users.
This is important because it helps to build trust, which in turn increases the chances of converting your target users to loyal visitors/customers.
A good domain name that aligns with your brand will help build trust.
To give website ownership
Another very important use of a domain name is that it gives you total ownership of the website.
As mentioned earlier, a domain name can only be used on one website. Once it is registered, no one else can claim ownership.
So, having a domain name gives you total control over the content of the website.
It is good for SEO
A well thought out domain name not only helps to enhance brand awareness and build credibility but also helps to increase its ranking on search engine result pages.
A memorable domain name that has relevant keywords will have a positive impact on your site’s SEO.
Your website will rank higher on search engines thus increasing its visibility to your target audience.
To give you an edge
A well crafted domain name can help you outshine your competitors. Customers tend to visit websites that have simple and easy-to-remember domain names.
How to buy a domain name?
Buying a domain name is incredibly simple and straightforward. Below is a simple step-by-step process on how to buy a domain name.
Step 1: Find a reputable domain registrar
The first step to buying a domain name is finding a reputable domain registrar- a company responsible for the registration and management of domain names.
A domain name will impact your business or online project for a long time.
Therefore, it is important to choose a reputable domain registrar with no hidden charges.
Step 2: Conduct a domain name search
Once you have found a reputable domain registrar, the next step is to conduct a domain name search.
This process is important because it helps you know the availability of the domain name.
Step 3: Register the domain
If the domain that you have chosen is available, the next step is to register it.
The registration process includes choosing the period of domain registration which ranges from 1- 10 years, paying for the domain name, and submitting your contact information, including your email address to complete the registration process.
Step 4: Verify ownership
Once you are done with the registration process, the final step is to verify the ownership of the new domain.
This process is important because it helps you know if the domain name is indeed yours. It also prevents other people from using the domain name.
Where to buy a domain?
The best place to buy a domain name is from a credible domain registrar.
Top domain registrars that you should consider buying a domain name from include:
- Bluehost
- Hostinger
- Domain.com
- GoDaddy
- Dreamhost
- Hostgator
You have to select the variable price offered by the hosting company before you made any decision.
How To Check The Availability Of a Domain Name?
Overall, it is possible to build a website without a domain name. You can use a free platform like blogspot.com to start your blog without buying domain name.
Some companies will offer free domains if you buy the hosting packages offered by them.