Home > Web Design > Domain registration

Domain registration

Before you get too far into the design of your site, (or maybe before you get started) you'll want to secure a domain name. The URL you select will become the permanent "address" of your Web site.

What should I name my Web site?

With around 100 million Web sites on the net, most of the 'good' domain names are already taken. Here are some tips for choosing your domain name:

• Pick a name that will be memorable to your visitors- maybe something 'catchy'.
• Keep your domain name as short as possible to make it easier to remember.
• If the name you want is taken, try a variation by adding your name to it. For example if www.photos.com is taken, try www.joesphotos.com (but only if your name is Joe!)
• If your domain name has more than one word, you have several options:

1. Create one long word: www.mywebsite.com
2. Hyphenate the name: www.my-web-site.com
3. Use underscores: www.my_web_site.com

We'd suggest sticking with option 1 above. Most people don't want to find the hyphen, or hit the shift key when they type a URL.

How do I know if a domain name is available?

A simple way is to simply type the name into the URL window of your browser, and see if a site comes up. If you get an error, the domain name may be available.

A better way is to search the "Who Is" database. It is accessible through the sites of many registrars.

How much will it cost?

Domain name registration is sometimes "free" with your Web hosting package. Of course nothing is truly free- the cost is 'built-in' to the package price.

Normally, you can expect to pay from $2-$20 per year to secure your domain name. You can often get discounts for a five-year or ten-year commitment.

What else should I consider?

Here are a few other things to keep in mind:

• Most registrars offer free "domain parking". This means you can create a Coming Soon page while you create your site without paying hosting fees. (Unless your registrar and host are one in the same.)
• If the domain you want is taken, but there is no Web site for it, consider contacting the owner (by looking them up in the "Who Is" database. They may be willing to sell the name.
• Some registrars will offer to "backorder" a name that is taken. You pay a fee, and if the domain name expires (and is not reviewed after 90 days) the registrar will purchase it for you. Avoid this option as you will most likely be throwing away your money.

[Back to top]

Home | Design | Dreamweaver | Fireworks | Photoshop | AdSense

©2006 Wilk Web Works
All rights reserved.