Your business is doing well, but now you want to make a name for yourself in the largest market – the internet. You register your business name so no one can take it. It’s equally important to register a domain name so that your clients can easily find you on the internet. Here are some things you should know about registering a domain name.
A good domain name
The first thing you need to do when you are registering a domain name is to come up with a few good choices. It’s best to come up with domain names that are relevant to your business. Use just your business name or something that has to do with your business. The reason you need to come up with a few is that the name you are wanting might be taken already. If it is, you can try your other choices without having to go back to the drawing board.
Choose a hosting service
Because a website is made up of files, you have a couple of options when setting up your website. Store the files on your own computer, or use a web hosting service. Most people and small businesses don’t have a server, security administrators, or Internet connection that is powerful enough to host their own site from the office or their home, so they choose a hosting service. You will want to evaluate customer service policies and pricing to determine which hosting service is right for you.
Another thing a hosting service can do for you is register your domain name. Kill two birds with one stone and register your domain with your web hosting service.
Read the fine print
Once you register the domain with a hosting company, make sure it is registered in your name. Some hosting companies will register your domain and then lease it to you. If you decide to change hosts, they charge you a premium to purchase the domain from them. You want to avoid this scenario. Always ask if the domain will be registered to your name and if you can keep it if you decide to change hosting companies. At GlowHost, you own your domain name 100% and can transfer it any time you like.
Domain name transfer
Once you own a domain name and have it hosted, If you aren’t happy with your web hosting service, you can transfer your domain to another service. Typically, when you sign up with a web hosting service, they will transfer your name for little or no money depending on the type of transfer. One important thing to watch for: it shouldn’t cost more to transfer a domain name than it does to register a new domain name. If it does, you might want to shop around and make sure that you are using the best web hosting service. Your new web host should also be able to walk you through your domain transfer process.
Top level domains
Deciding on your top level domain (TLD) can sometimes be a challenge. You might find that the .com version of your domain name is already registered and owned by someone else. When this frustration hits, you can choose from a number of other domains such as a .net or .us. If you are a larger corporation and have $185,000 to spend, you might even consider applying for your own top level domain. One example of a newer and lesser known, but easy to remember top level domain is .photography. This simple TLD name is easy to remember for current and potential clients, which can help boost sales.
It is usually an exciting time in your business when you are ready to register a domain name. These are a few tips and tricks, but if you have any questions, you can talk to your web hosting service, and they can walk you through registering a domain name that is right for your website and company. If you have any questions, feel free to contact GlowHost. We’re available 24/7.