YOUR WEBSITE NAME
Your website name, also called a domain name, is managed by the non-profit organization, ICANN (The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers) which oversees the assignment of both IP addresses and domain names. Ideally your domain name should be your business name. However, just because you have registered your business name with the County or State does not mean it is available as a domain name. Let’s review some basics of naming a domain and I will share some insider tips that can help you navigate these murky waters.
DOMAIN REGISTRARS
All domain names must be registered with an ICANN accredited registrar. Popular registrar companies include GoDaddy or Google Domains. You can purchase a domain name from one of these domain registrars or other reseller. Once purchased, a WHOIS record with your registration information identifying you as being the registrant of the domain will be recorded. This information is made public and can be viewed at the WHOIS website.
Domains typically cost $14.99/yr. A domain name is usually your business name. However, if that name is not available then you must search for an alternative.
INSTANT DOMAIN SEARCH
Have you ever searched airlines flights but were not quite ready to buy? Then, when you return, the fare is higher? Well, Domain Registrars have been known to do this as well. Thus, utilize the website, Instant Domain Search, to investigate domain name availability. This site does not trigger a price increase, allowing you more time to shop around.
Deciding On A Name
Keep these 3 tips in mind when determining your domain name. Short is best, especially if people have to email you, the simpler the name the more memorable.
Tip #1
Naming Tips
Keep your name
short
memorable
and somthing that reflects your business
Tip #2
Include Keywords
Include Your
service
location &
words people use to search for you
Tip #3
Extensions
Consider using
.co .shop .io .net
if .com is not available for your chosen domain name
Ready to Purchase
Once you have decided on a domain name then it is time to purchase your domain. Google Domains and GoDaddy are popular choices. Or use my affiliate relation to Namecheap for discounted rate and free pricacy protection, keeping spammers at bay.
Next Step: Hosting
Next step after purchasing a domain name is to secure hosting. See my Blog on hosting,
