How Do I Register a Domain?

So, you want to claim your own space on the web? Fortunately, it’s very easy to register a domain name. You can do it online in a matter of minutes. Authorized Internet registrars have made the registration process very simple. Each registrar may require slightly different information from you. Yet, all registrars follow a similar format. Also, the registrars walk you through each step in the registration process to ensure that everything goes smoothly.

Before you register a domain, you will need to have a list of domain names and phrases that you’ve considered. You should have at least five different names/phrases because many of them are likely to be taken already. Try devising something unusual, yet memorable. You need something unusual because common words and phrases are almost certainly registered.

Now that you’ve compiled a list of names, you are ready to visit any authorized Internet domain registrar. You will enter the domain name that you most desire (up to 67 characters long) and perform a search for it. The search results will indicate whether or not someone else has already registered the domain. If you find that it has been registered, you may modify the domain name slightly by adding numbers or dashes. You may also search using alternative extensions like .net or .info instead of .com. If none of these options work, you must move to the next domain name on your list and repeat the entire process. If you absolutely must have a domain name that already belongs to someone else, you may attempt to purchase it from them. Be prepared to pay a hefty price when considering this option.

Next, you will register the domain name by providing primary and secondary DNS server settings to associate with the domain name. You will also need to name yourself as the registrant, an administrative contact, a billing contact, and a technical contact. This information is important to keeping your domain name operating properly. Make sure you provide complete and accurate information. You want the registrant to be able to contact you in case of any changes being made to your domain name. For example, if your registration is about to expire, the registrar should be able to reach you. If it can not, your registration will be terminated and someone else may claim the domain name.

Finally, the last thing to do is pay for registration. Some companies require that you pay online to register a domain. Others allow for payment by mail. Be sure to keep paper copies of your confirmation. Most times, you must actually print it from a computer because registrars rarely send confirmations through postal mail. Once you’ve completed all of these steps, you may begin to promote your new Internet domain.