The first step of starting a blog or website is to buy a domain name; in this article, you’ll see a complete guide with best practices on how to buy a domain name (URL) correctly. The domain name is the unique name of your blog/site. For example, Visualmodo.Com is our domain name. You will enter our blog whenever you type this domain name on your browser.
Complete Guide to Buy a Domain Name
Domain names put a friendly face on hard-to-remember numeric internet addresses. Every computer on the internet has a unique internet protocol (IP) number. A domain name represents one IP number or more.
For example, the IP number for the domain name whitehouse.gov is 104.109.178.94. The whole purpose is to give users an easy-to-remember handle when sending an e-mail. So, let’s say the President of the United States, you can type president@whitehouse.gov instead of the more unwieldy president@104.109.178.94
What Do Domain Registrars Really Do?
All domain name records are stored in a centralized database called the registry. For a domain name to be recognized, it must be added to that database with all related information.
ICANN permits a domain name registrar to make changes to your domain name’s information in the database on your behalf. A domain name registrar provides easy-to-use tools to make those changes using your web browser. So, let’s look at how to choose the best domain registrar for your website address.
How to Buy The Right Domain Name?
Not all domain registrars have the license to sell all domain name extensions. For example, some domain registrars can only sell domain names with country-specific extensions (like .io, .in, or .ly).
Each domain registrar may offer different services along with the domain name registration. Some registrars may offer cheap domains as their promotional offer, while others may give free add-ons to attract customers. When choosing the best domain name registrar, we look at the following four criteria: Keep reading this complete guide with best practices on how to buy a domain name (URL) correctly to create your website.
How Buy a URL? The Waiting Game
Even when you register and pay for your domain name. So, you won’t necessarily be able to use the name for several hours or even a few days. The domain must propagate. The official domain name registry must be updated with your website’s domain name system information. Moreover, that occurs on the backend without any need for input from you.
In addition, Some registrars promise to have the name up nearly immediately. However, the delay can be up to seven days. Typically, though, you should expect to see the domain name up and running on the web within 48 hours keep reading for more toips on how to buy a URL.
Secure Your Domain Name
After registering your domain name, consider taking steps to protect your online brand. This can include purchasing similar domain names or variations to prevent others from registering them, setting up domain name privacy, and renewing your domain name registration before it expires.
NameCheap Prices
- .com extension – $8.88/year (renews at $10.88/year)
- .org extension – $12.98/year
- .net extension – $11.98/year
- WHOIS Privacy – FREE
- Google G Suite – $6.00/mo
- Email – Free for 2-months (renews at $3.88/year)
- Web Hosting – $1.28/mo (renews at $2.88/mo)
- SSL Certificate – $3.88/year
Buy Domain Name Guide: GoDaddy Prices
- .com extension – $2.99/year (renews at $17.99/year)
- .org extension – $11.99/year (renews at $20.99/year)
- .net extension – $13.99/year (renews at $19.99/year)
- WHOIS Privacy – $9.99/year
- Email – $1.99/year (renews at $4.99/year)
- Website Builder & Hosting – Free first month (renews at $5.99/mo)
- SSL Certificate – Present on hosting
Domain.com Prices
- .com extension – $9.99/year (renews at $13.99/year)
- .org extension – $14.99/year
- .net extension – $12.99/year (renews at $15.99/year)
- WHOIS Privacy – $8.99/year
- Google G Suite – $6.00/mo
- Web Hosting – $1.99/mo (renews at $3.75/mo)
- SSL Certificate – $3.33/mo
- SiteLock security – $2.08/mo
Buy Domain Name Guide: Social Handles
In a perfect world, you’d pick a domain name whose social handles are also available. But this isn’t an ideal world. So, my take on this is that it’s hard enough to get a good domain name. Don’t make it even harder or nearly impossible by adding this criterion. When it comes to picking up social handles, you’ll have options. You can get creative or even acquire the handles from the current owners.
Renewal and Protection Strategies
Domain name renewal is an often overlooked aspect of domain management. Set reminders for your domain’s expiration date or opt for automatic renewal to avoid losing your domain name to someone else. Losing a domain name due to failed renewal can be a significant setback, potentially derailing years of branding and SEO effort.
Protect your domain from hijacking by enabling domain locking at your registrar. This prevents unauthorized transfer requests. Additionally, consider registering your domain name across multiple TLDs and variations of your brand name to protect your brand from cybersquatting and ensure that your audience can easily find you, even if they mistype your URL.
Advanced Tips for Domain Management
- Use subdomains: Subdomains (e.g., blog.yourdomain.com) can organize your site’s content and improve SEO by associating keywords with your main domain.
- Monitor domain performance: Regularly analyze your website’s traffic and search engine rankings to understand how your domain name impacts your online visibility.
- Engage in domain flipping: If you have a knack for predicting valuable domain names, buying and selling domain names (domain flipping) can be a lucrative business.
Conclusion
Purchasing a domain name is the first step in establishing your online presence. Following the steps outlined in this guide, you can choose a domain name that reflects your brand, is memorable to your audience, and supports your SEO efforts. Remember, your domain name is an investment in your online identity, so take the time to choose wisely.
By implementing the tips and strategies from this guide, you’ll be well on your way to securing a domain name that serves as a foundation for your online success. Remember, the right domain name defines your online presence and contributes significantly to your branding and marketing efforts. Choose wisely, and watch your digital footprint grow.
