If you’re thinking of building a website, you’ve likely come across the phrase ‘domain name’. It’s often confused with hosting services, and some people underestimate the importance of your domain name. It’s the address for your website and often the first impression that a visitor gets of your content. We’re giving you a rundown of what domain names are and what you should keep in mind when choosing one.
What is a Domain Name?
The domain name of your website is what you see in the URL bar. It works exactly like your home address does and helps visitors find your website. If someone wants to visit your website, all they have to do is type in your domain name. A domain works by mapping to a website’s IP address, meaning that visitors don’t have to type out a long string of numbers but instead use an easy to remember website domain.
To build your website, you need your website hosting and domain name – it works as the home and address for your site.
Domain Extensions
Your domain name comes with an extension – the most common one being .com. While it’s usually easier to use a .com extension, as it’s more memorable, you have dozens of options to choose from. Other options include .org and .net – along with country-specific options, such as .ie.
There are three groupings for domain name extensions:
- Top level domain (TLD) is the highest level and includes the most popular options, such as .com or .org.
- Country code top level domains (ccTLD) are country-specific extensions, such as .uk or .ie. This option is great if you have a target audience in mind with specific content for a country-specific demographic.
- Sponsored top level domains (Stld) are community focused domain extensions and are used by government agencies with extensions like .gov.
At Host Pegasus, you have access to over 200 TLD extensions and can search for an available domain through our website.
Domain Privacy
Domains are managed by the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), which oversees domain name registrars. When you register a domain name, the ICANN requires you to provide your personal information. If you’re concerned about your privacy, you can add on a domain privacy option to show proxy information in the place of your personal information.
What To Keep In Mind When Choosing Your Domain
When you’re thinking up your domain name, the world is your oyster. If you’re a business, you want to try to get the standard .com or .co.uk version of your name. If you’re opening a blog or personal website, you can have a little more fun with it. There are millions of registered domain names, with thousands added every day. If you’re thinking of opening a business, it’s a good idea to check if there’s an available domain name option that reflects your operating name.
Other things to keep in mind when choosing your domain is that you want it to be short and snappy, whether you’re adding it to your business card or social media pages. It should be easy to spell, and you want to avoid using numbers or hyphens.
You can search for your domain on our domain names page. Domain names start at $15/year!
With 16+ years in the Web Hosting Industry, Brian has had the opportunity to design websites for some of the largest companies in the industry. Brian currently holds the position as Creative Director at HostPegasus Web Hosting.