What is a Domain Name?

A domain name is simply another name for the web address of any website. For example, Google’s domain name is google.com and Amazon use amazon.co.uk in the UK. A domain name is like the front door address for a website. Domains can have different extensions, such as .org or .net, and some are country specific, such as .co.uk. They can also have sub-domains, such as books.amazon.com or analytics.google.com. For more details on these, look below.

Do I Need a Domain Name?

It’s possible to run a website without buying a domain name, but you’ll have to host it within another company’s website. This takes away some of the control and ownership you have over your content. An example of this is WordPress.com. For branding purposes, and building your site’s value in the long term, it’s well worth having your own domain name. It means you own it and no-one else has a say in your site. And, since the only cost around £10 per year, there’s no reason not to!

Course Index

  1. Domain Names
  2. Web Hosting
  3. Website Setup
  4. Website Design
  5. Logos and Headers
  6. Creating Content
  7. Site Maintenance

Main Tutorial: Find and Buying a Domain Name

Video Summary and Resources

Where to Buy Your Domain

Shopping CartTo buy a domain name, you need to go through a Domain Registrar. This is a company who will register your domain on the internet, and make sure that, when someone types it into their address bar, it will direct them to your website. My usual registrar is GoDaddy. They offer decent prices, and a great Domain Management control panel. Go here to buy your domain name: GoDaddy Domain Registration

Domain Extensions

There are lots of domain extensions out there, such as .com, .net, .org, .me, .tv and more. The best domain to have is a .com, as it’s the longest standing one, and the one that people will tend to try first if they don’t know what your extension is. .net and .org are also well established, and carry weight in the search engines, so they’re a viable alternative to .com. Choosing another extension can be risky, as .com, .net or .org sites my often outrank you in the search results, but finding a short, memorable domain is also very valuable, so it can pay off in the long run.

How Do I Choose a Domain Name?

The best domain names are short and memorable. Sadly, the options are limited nowadays. Most of the good domains have been bought up. You need to be imaginative and think of some creative word combinations. Many people now base their new Business name on what domains are available. If you have an existing business, though, you might have to try quite a few different word combinations before hitting an available one that works.