Domain names and how to register them

If you are looking to kick start a new business venture, then you may be wanting to explore how to get your company set up online. To do this, you must first and foremost get your domain name sorted.

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What is a domain name?

A domain name, otherwise known as a web address, is an identification string on the Internet and usually represents one IP number, or sometimes more. Anybody in the world can buy a domain name, and the owner of this ‘home’ theoretically has control over the space (however just how much control will be noted in your agreement).

Choosing your domain name

When you buy domain name IP addresses, you are relatively free to pick a name that represents your brand or service. However, in some cases, domain names are already taken and since there can only ever be one version of each unique address, you might have to rethink your choice.

Understanding suffixes

That said, if you are set on a specific domain name then you may have a bit more leeway by opting for a different suffix (but it’s always best to carry out your own legal checks before you buy domain name orders to ensure you aren’t acting unlawfully).

The suffix is what comes at the end of your web address and which identifies the top-level domain, or TLD. The most common domain suffixes for UK-based websites are .co.uk and .com, however, there are various others that may apply to you.

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Choosing a web host

Deciding which web host to use can be a confusing matter, but one of the key things to remember is to check what your agreement or offer includes. For instance, many web hosts will offer you a cut-down rate for the first one, two or even three years, but it is wise to check how your bills will be affected thereafter once the trial period is over.

You can find out a bit more about choosing and purchasing domain names at https://www.names.co.uk/domain-names.

Changing a domain name

Finally, if you suddenly have a change of heart or you discover that the domain name that you have just requested and paid for is risky, then you do have the option of changing the domain. Unfortunately, though, some hosts insist you wait at least 60 days after the initial registration before you can activate a different domain.