Domain Registration
Your domain name can be very important to your Internet identity. A good Web domain name makes you easier to find and easier for visitors to remember. When you are unable to choose a domain name that makes you easier to find, it is best to choose a name that enhances your brand, thus making your site easier for visitors to remember.Â
Other than choosing a unique name, you have many options to choose from, within a set of commonsense guidelines. For instance, you do not want a name too similar to another site because you do not want to confuse visitors or be mistaken for another site, especially if both sites are in the same niche. Longer domain names are often easier to get, but there is a trade off. These names are hard for users to input, driving them to look you up through a search engine instead, meaning there is a good chance they may choose a competitor’s site instead.
Top-level domains should be used whenever possible. They project a level of professionalism and success that you want your site to emulate. These domains are ones that end in extensions like .com, .net, .org, .info, .biz or .ws. There are also country-specific extensions like .us, .uk, etc. If you can get a top-level domain that includes keywords related to your niche, you have found the perfect name, as long as it is not excessively long. Brainstorm a few ideas and then check the domain registrar to see if they are available.
Domain Name Registration
Most domain registration companies offer free lookups for you to find out if your domain is already taken. If the name you want is not available, try to make small changes to find a version that is available. If all else fails, consider changing it to a name that emulates your brand image instead of your keywords.
Once you find the right domain, registering it is a simply matter of a few clicks of the mouse. You fill out a simple form and make a small payment by PayPal or credit card. Some hosting companies will offer you free domain registration, usually for a specified time period such as six months or one year.
Like trademark rights, your domain name must be renewed periodically. You can keep it forever, as long as you continue to renew it. Your registrar will send notices to the listed administrative contact a few months before renewal, along with a bill for the renewal fees. To ensure your domain stays in effect, always keep the domain registration updated.
Although a domain name is the smallest monetary investment in setting up your website, it is one of the most important. An easy to recognize Internet address is more likely to get you attention and profits. As such, some entrepreneurs earn money simply buying and trading top-level domains for a profit. Guard your domain closely. If you lose it, it may cost you hundreds to get it back!