What is Domain Registration?

10 min to read

Domain registration is booking an exclusive URL on the internet (a domain name) for a particular duration.

It ensures that the web address remains unavailable to others during your registration, potentially allowing for a distinct online presence.

A domain name is typically registered through a domain registrar.

Pro Tip:
Registering a domain name for an extended period might influence the cost of ownership and the regularity of renewal requirements.
Key Takeaways:
  • Domain registration allows you to reserve a specific address online, which is necessary for owning a website
  • A good domain name should relate to the site's content and be memorable, too
  • Domain registration enables management through registrars that provide services and require renewal
Hocoos small logo Answers Hosting

What is a domain name?

A domain name is a human-readable web address of a website, for instance, example.com. Domain names are easier for people to remember and use compared to the numerical IP addresses that computers use to locate websites. A good domain name can also help people understand what your website is.

Pro Tip: 
While picking a domain name, prefer the “.com” version, for it is the most common TLD that is naturally remembered.

What are the different parts of a domain name (e.g., SLD, TLD)?

A domain name often comprises at least two primary components: the Second-Level Domain (or SLD), which is the unique name you choose—for instance, “example”, and the Top Level Domain (TLD), which is a suffix that classifies the domain—for example, “.com”. All these parts function to form a particular domain addressing system hierarchy on the Internet. The TLD can represent the intent or the website’s area of origin. Subdomains also appear in such domains as “blog.example.com,” which helps to structure different areas of the website. Some of the most popular TLDs include .com, .org, and .net.

Pro Tip: 
Look for TLDs related to the purpose of the website or the audience you are targeting, for example, .tech for a technology blog and .shop for an e-commerce site.

Where can I register a domain name (what is a domain registrar)?

To get a domain name, you first need to register it with a domain registrar, which is a particular company allowed to sell and manage domain names. They act as a middleman between you and a high authority who controls all the domain names, and checks that your requested name is not already taken. There are many domain registrars like GoDaddy, Namecheap, and Google Domains. Some website builders, like Hocoos AI, may offer a domain as part of their premium account offerings. You may want to check a few other registrars, as the prices offered are different.

Pro Tip: 
Don’t just look at the registration cost; think about the renewal fees, transfer charges, and extras given, such as privacy protection offered by the registrar.

How do I choose a good domain name?

When choosing a domain name, be sure to consider one that is simple to remember and pronounce, as well as relevant to the content of the website. An easily managed domain name can affect how people share and locate your website. A website’s relevance can affect its visibility in search engine results. Make sure your domain name is not too long, and applicable social media accounts have not been taken. Think of important words that tie to your subject.

Pro Tip: 
Say the name out loud and confirm with others whether it is clear and easy to remember before completing the process. Furthermore, ensure that there are no accidental negative meanings associated with it.

How long does a domain name registration last?

When you register a domain name, it is usually valid for a certain period, most commonly between one to ten years. This period can be acquired through a lease-like arrangement, allowing exclusive use of the domain name with continued renewals. A common practice among registrars is to send expiration reminders, which may assist in preventing domain name loss caused by forgotten renewal dates.

What happens when a domain registration expires?

When a domain registration expires without renewal, it may become available for registration by others. The system is designed to release domain names for potential reuse. While a grace period often exists, domain loss can occur eventually; hence, to avoid losing your identity on the Internet and crucial viability online, timely renewal of domain registration is essential. Some registrars provide the option for automatic renewal.

Pro Tip: 
When deciding not to renew domain registration, explicit action is advisable, particularly if the domain retains value or has connected services requiring management.

Can I transfer my domain name to a different registrar?

Domain name transfers from one registrar to another are generally permitted. This enables a choice of registrar based on pricing or service considerations. Typically, the transfer procedure includes receiving a transfer code from the registrar you are currently using. A waiting period may exist before domains are eligible for transfer following initial registration.

Pro Tip: 
Remember to unlock your domain at the registrar before initiating a transfer, and that you have your authorization code (EPP code). Also, during transfers, a one-year renewal is often automatically added.

Conclusion

The first and important step to getting your address online is to register a custom domain name. Owning a domain may impact your business visibility; hence, it is crucial to gain knowledge of domain name registration and its management relates to more effective internet use.

Table of Contents

READY TO KICK-START YOUR SMALL BUSINESS JOURNEY?

Important Consideration: The information provided by our expert team is designed to give you a general understanding of the website creation process and the features available to you. It's important to note that this information is not a substitute for professional advice tailored to your specific needs and goals.
Read our editorial standards for Answers content.
Our goal is to empower you to create an amazing website. If you have questions or need guidance during the building process, don’t hesitate to Contact us. We're happy to provide assistance and point you in the right direction.