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A domain serves as the Internet address of your website. If you have a website, you will want to register your domain with a domain registrar. Registering a domain will protect your domain name from copycats. Read on to learn everything you need to know about how to register a domain.
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A domain serves as the Internet address of your website. If you have a website, you will want to register your domain with a domain registrar. Registering a domain will protect your domain name from copycats. Read on to learn everything you need to know about how to register a domain.
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Introduction
- Domains are part of the Domain Name System (DNS). Your domain will have four sections: the prefix (e.g., www), the domain name (a combination of letters and numbers), the extension (e.g., .com) and the country code (this is optional). An example of a domain would be www.mahalo.com. Domains are registered with official domain name registrars. Registering your domain is a simple process.
Step 1: Get a Domain
- Before you can register your domain you will need to buy a domain.
- Choose your domain name.
- Try to use as few words as possible.
- Keep it short, simple and easy to remember.
- You can register names up to 63 characters long.
- Check your domain name for availability.
- Choose a service provider, like Go Daddy or Network Solutions.
- For more information, check out Mahalo's How to Buy a Domain.
Step 2: Register with an Accredited Registrar
- Getting a service provider to host your domain and registering your domain are two separate tasks (however, your web host may be able to register your domain). It doesn't matter where you register your domain name, as long as it is accredited. Here are a few tips for registering your domain:
- For a list of legitimate registrars, check out InterNIC's Accredited Registrar Directory.
- Select a registrar you trust.
- Ask friends, family and business associates for recommendations.
- Choose a registrar with 24/7 support.
- Follow the procedure outlined on the registrar's website.
- Fill out the registration form with your complete contact information.
- Decide if you want to keep your contact information private.
- Stop people from copying your name by registering multiple extensions.
- Make sure your domain is registered to you and not your service provider.
- Remember to renew before your registration expires.
- Typically, you'll have one to two years.