If you’ve decided that it’s time to make that leap and purchase a domain name, then bravo! A domain name is an essential part of your website and it can do wonders for your business. We definitely recommend jumping on the domain name bandwagon as soon as you can.
What’s a domain name and why do you need one?
In a nutshell, a domain name is the address of your website. This address is made up of the name of your business, blog or store, as well as a domain extension such as .co.uk or .com. Starting your online journey begins with buying a domain name. Associating your brand and your business with a domain name will help you to carve out an online presence. This means that your customers will be able to remember your domain and revisit your site over and over again.
Learn more: ‘what is a domain name?’
How much does a domain name cost?
Generally, domains vary in cost depending on which name you select, and which extension you opt for. You can expect the cost of an average domain name can range from £10 to £40 annually, which is well worth it for the benefits.
If you have a domain name in mind, using a domain name search tool can help to manage and map out your domain budget for the next few years.
How to buy a domain name
Purchasing a domain name is a step in the right direction for every business looking to connect with customers virtually. But knowing where to start can be tricky. We’ve broken down the process of purchasing a domain name into three simple steps. So let’s get started.
Step one: Choosing a domain name and extension
It’s possible that you already have a domain name in mind, but if you don’t then this step is for you. Should you opt for a long or a short domain name? Should you consider an SEO-friendly domain name? Choosing the right name is key, it’s what your customers will remember you by and it’s what will keep them coming back for more. So make sure that you brainstorm a few different names before deciding, rather than making a snap decision.
An essential part of any domain is the domain extension. A TLD, or a top-level domain, is the .com or .co.uk section. With more and more TLDs appearing every year, from .blog to .shop your domain extension options are endless. But, how can you choose the right TLD? Well, for example, if you’re a British business and you want to show your Britishness, a.co.uk TLD is a great choice. Or maybe you’re setting up an online shop, and a .shop TLD is more up your street. Pick whatever works best for your website.
Learn more: How to choose a domain name
Step 2: Picking a domain name provider
There are lots of domain name providers on the market, but that doesn’t mean they’re all for you. Each provider will offer different packages with various features and prices, so make sure to spend some time looking into all of your options. Don’t rush into anything you’re unsure of, it’s better to be safe than sorry when spending your money on a domain.
Step 3: Using a domain name search tool
Now that you’ve chosen your domain name, and the provider you want to lease it with, it’s time to check if it’s available. Using your provider’s domain name search tool you will be able to see if your chosen name and extension is available to purchase. Sometimes, the one you wanted is unavailable – not to worry, it’s just a momentary setback – but we will talk a bit more about that in the next section. However, if it is available – yay! Go ahead and purchase it through your provider, and now you are the proud owner of your very own domain name.
Note: Remember to renew your domain name on time to avoid losing it to someone else.
How to find out who owns a domain
Did you decide on the perfect domain name only to find that it was already taken? You’re not alone. With thousands and thousands of domains registered every single day, it’s no wonder that it’s getting harder to find available domain names. However, you may still be able to purchase the domain you wanted after all.
There are tools online which help to locate the current owner of a domain name, and it’s possible to get in touch with them and purchase the domain from them. However, we always recommend getting a third party involved in these transactions to avoid any mishaps.
Check out our blog ‘how to find out who owns a domain’ to find out more about tracking down your desired domain.
Transferring your domain name from one provider to another
Some domain owners come to the conclusion that the provider they’re with isn’t the right one for them. Whether this decision is based on pricing or package features, it’s a choice many people make. Luckily, you don’t have to stick with the same provider. Transferring your domain name over to a new one is quick, simple, and there are no hard feelings involved in the move.
If you’ve decided to opt for a domain name with us, check out our available domain names today. Looking for something more specific, such as a .co.uk domain? Why not browse our collection?
Our sales team is also available to offer any domain related advice you might need, or to answer any questions you have regarding our other products and services.
