Selecting a domain name is one of the most crucial steps in building a website or an online presence.
The distinctive address of a website is its domain name. It typically consists of a name (the website’s name) and an extension (ex: .com). Your audience will have an easier time finding your website, and your branding will be stronger with a memorable domain name.
This simple guide will teach you everything you need about domain names, such as how they work and why you need one. We will also review how to get domain names and hosting services.
What Is A Domain Name?
A domain name is the online equivalent of a street address. Domain names help users to find your website easier than its internet protocol (IP) address. Domain names, which consist of a name and an extension, are an important component of the internet infrastructure.
What Is The Difference Between a Domain Name and a URL?
While a domain name and a URL are similar, they are not the same. URL functions as a complete web address, directing users to a particular web page. A domain name is only one component of it.
Furthermore, a URL has a path, domain, and protocol. If an SSL certificate is present, the protocol will show that. The path component of a URL only exists when it is used to navigate to a specific page within a website.
How Do Domain Names Function?
Every website requires two primary elements: a domain name and a web hosting server. The web IP addresses are linked to the domain names that users type in their browsers.
Entering a domain name into a browser prompts it to query a distributed network of Domain Name System (DNS) servers for the corresponding Internet Protocol (IP) address.
When a user visits a website, their browser sends a request to the server hosting that domain, which sends back the user’s IP address. The website’s files, database, and HTML code are all stored on this web server. Web pages are accessible to users after the host sends back the necessary data and the browser processes it.
What Is the Purpose of a Domain Name?
Here are a few examples of situations in which you would benefit from having your own unique URL:
Memorability
Technically, your audience can access your website without typing a domain name and just by entering its IP address. However, it is difficult to remember because it is a series of numbers. Domain names improve a website’s accessibility to internet users.
Branding that works
A well-thought-out domain name will aid in communicating your business in a way that is compatible with the values and mission of your brand.
Credibility
Websites with custom domain names appear more professional than free ones, such as yourwebsite.websitebuilder.com.
SEO
A memorable domain name containing relevant keywords will improve your website’s search engine optimization, resulting in higher rankings.
What Are The Different Types of Domains?
Domain names of various types can reveal more information about a website. Here are some examples of the most common types:
TOP-LEVEL DOMAIN (TLD)
Top-level domains are domain extensions. Many TLDs are online, but .com domains account for 54% of all websites. Popular extensions generate organic traffic because users write them by default, others include.net, .io, and .store.
Less popular extensions like .online can be less expensive and help distinguish a domain. As more websites are created daily, a TLD’s popularity may change.
IANA keeps a list of valid TLDs.
Domain Country-Code (ccTLD)
CcTLDs are country-specific domain extensions. It consists of two country codes.
WIPO’s database can help find country codes. Japanese websites use .jp domain extensions, US websites use .us, etc.
A ccTLD helps a single-country company. International companies can differentiate content this way.
gTLD (Generic Top-Level Domain)
gTLDs do not use country codes. There are no gTLD requirements. Some extensions are sponsored by groups, and some domains have specific associations, so do not confuse visitors. Corporate websites use the .org extension.
Certain registrants can only get some generic TLDs. Universities use .edu, while government agencies use .gov. If your company or project does not fall into a specific category, you cannot use its generic TLDs. However, you can use popular extensions such as .com or its first alternative, .net, .xyz, or .icu.
Who Is In Charge of the Domain Name System?
The Internet Corporation manages the domain name system for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN). It is a non-profit organization that develops and implements domain name policies.
Domain Name Registrars are companies authorized by ICANN to sell domain names. These domain registrars have the authority to change the domain name registry on your behalf.
Domain name registrars can sell domain names, manage their records, and transfer them to other registrars.
You are responsible as the domain name owner for informing the registrar where to send requests. You are also in charge of renewing your domain registration.
How To Get a Domain Name?
You can purchase the domain names you want from one of the domain name registrars. The cost of registering a domain name is about $14.99 per year. Domain.com, network solutions, and Godday are some well-known domain name companies you can refer to.
However, purchasing a domain does not entitle you to hosting services. You will also need a hosting website account for this.
Many WordPress hosting companies also provide domain registration services. This allows you to manage both services from a single account and eliminates the need to change the server settings for your domain.
Conclusion
Domain names are the unique identifiers that users enter to visit specific websites. With a unique name, you can boost your domain’s memorability, brand recognition, and search engine optimization (SEO). You can easily purchase your favorite domain name through popular domain trading platforms such as Domchain.
This article covered the basics of domain names, including how they work, the different types available, and the registration and transfer processes.
We hope this article has provided you with a foundational knowledge of domain names and how to employ them in your online ventures effectively.