DOMAIN REGISTRATION

Domain registration allows you to create your official mark on the internet with a professional, direct web location. The article below provides you with tips and steps in order to register a domain name.

  1. First, think up a couple of domain names you would like to use. It’s a good idea to think up as many as you can before looking to register a domain name. Finding a name that is not already being used can be difficult as there are thousands of domains already registered. If you have a nice selection to choose from, you are more likely to find one that is not currently in use.
  2. When choosing domain names, think of names that are simple and easy to remember. Put yourself in the shoes of a potential visitor. You want a name that will draw their attention; yet is easy for someone to enter later on if they decide to visit the site directly (as opposed to going through a search engine).
  3. Keep in mind that there are various domain extensions available (.com, .net, .biz, etc.), so it is possible for you to register a particular name and for someone else to register the exact same name under a different extension. If you are concerned about your preferred domain name being duplicated, look into reserving your domain name under other extensions.
  4. Check to see if the domain name you would like to use is available. There are a number of sites that will allow you to check to see if a domain name is already registered. Some of these sites are:

    * www.checkdomain.com
    * www.betterwhois.com
    * www.networksolutions.com/whois/index.jsp

    Check the Resources Section below for direct links or do a Google search for “Domain Name Availability” to get some more options.

  5. Once you have found an available domain name, look for web sites that specialize in domain registration. Some options are:

    * www.godaddy.com
    * www.networksolutions.com
    * www.dotster.com

    Check the Resources Section below for direct links or do a Google search for “Domain Registration” to get some more options.

  6. If you already have a web site created that is currently hosted, check with the company that is hosting your site to see if they offer domain registration. Some folks opt to go with a web hosting company they are already familiar with; particularly if they have experienced very good service with that company.
  7. Compare prices and do a little research on the companies you are interested in using to register a domain name. You may find that some are cheaper than others, but that the more expensive ones offer additional incentives that you find may come in handy. Also check out registrar reviews as they will provide you with satisfaction results and tips on selecting a registrar to use.
  8. Once you have chosen a company to register a domain name with, go to that company’s web site, create an account, and follow their instructions for domain registration. Some things to consider during registration are the length of time you would like to register your domain name, as well as whether or not you want to make it public or private.
  9. If none of your choices are available or if you really, really, really, really want a particular domain name that is already taken, you can look into one of three things:

    * Monitor the domain name for expiration. Once a domain name has expired, you are free to register it. Some domain registration companies offer monitoring services for a fee so that you can be notified when the status of a particular domain name changes.

    * Some domain registration companies offer what is called a Backorder service. This service basically means that if you purchase the domain name on backorder, you have a better chance of obtaining that domain name once it expires under the previous owner.

    * Offer to buy the domain name from the current registrant.