Domain, How to Begin

Domain, How to Begin

If you have a business online you should also have a website, and if you have a website you need to start thinking about your own domain name. If you use a site like WordPress.com, it’s less professional because your URL looks like: http://www.website.wordpress.org. On the other hand, if you own the domain name and host it yourself, it looks more professional: http://www.website.com or whatever extension you want at the end. You don’t need to be a registered organization or company to register and buy a domain — anyone can do it.

There are a number of advantages to having your own domain name. Here are some of the most compelling reasons to get one:

– The link is professional and gives you credibility and a positive reputation.

– The link is easier to add to letterheads, business cards, and social profiles.

– Since the link is customizable, if you create one that includes your business name or personal name, it will be much easier for people to find your website, which in turn means more traffic to the site.

– Lastly, if you plan on putting advertising on it, having guest ads or sponsors, you’ll have better chances at doing so if you have your own domain name.

There are a variety of domain sites to search, buy, and set up your domain name. The one you pick is going to really depend on price. However, the steps for setting the domain up are all fairly straightforward and follow the same process as outlined below.

Step 1: Think of some domain names you’d like to use. This could be something professional like your name or business name, or something fun. One of the best sites to use to brainstorm domain names is https://www.dotomator.com/index.html — it takes a little time and some creativity, but you should be able to come up with great domain names AND check if they’re taken. Most top-level domains like .com are around $8–$10 per year and come with a free WhoisGuard. Other extensions like .net, .me, and .tech are usually lower in cost.

Step 2: Next you will need a PayPal account or credit card to purchase the domain name under your account. If you have a web host already, you would need to get the name servers from them, both primary and secondary.

Step 3: If you don’t have a web host yet, that’s fine. Most registrars have a temporary parking option that allows you to park your domain on their site for free for a few weeks until you get organized. This lets you secure the name you want and then set up everything else. When you’re ready, you can then transfer it to the web host.

Once you’ve chosen a domain name, move quickly and grab it! Often when you find the perfect name, you wait a few weeks to get organized and then it’s gone, purchased by someone else.