Things to consider before buying a Domain Name!

What to do before buying a domain name?

It was in 1985 when the first domain name was registered and since then, the Internet has experienced an exponential growth of active domain names.

The Verisign report notes that the domain name industry in 2017 grew by 3.7%, totaling more than 300 million registered domains, and will continue to grow.

Given the importance of digital presence in today’s technology-oriented society, it makes sense for a brand, be it a large conglomerate or a digital agency, to own a domain name.

Whether we like it or not, having a registered domain for your brand is a necessity.

If you do not have one yet, or if you just need a little guide on domain names, keep reading this article. We will share details on how to buy and register a new domain for beginners!

Know your ABC (or DNS)
When you want to start a website, you must have a domain name. But what is a domain name exactly?

It is essentially a string of recognizable words that, once typed in the browser, redirects the user to the IP address of your server.

You see, when a website is created, it often comes with a unique address known as DNS (Domain Name Servers) that often looks like this:

NS1.ABC.COM
NS2.ABC.COM

It’s really hard to memorize and type. That’s why a unique domain name will be easier to remember and type for users.

Tips on choosing a domain name
Your domain name is your identity. This is the way people find you on the internet. This is the name that customers pass on to others.

Needless to say, nothing is more important.

Move in the right direction and choose the perfect domain name – here are some tips to help you find the right domain names.

1. Keep it short and easy to remember
2. Avoid brand names
3. Get a .com or .net whenever possible
4. Do not be afraid to create a word or use a compound word (example – FaceBook, YouTube, Google, LinkedIn)
5. Write it down and read it several times before buying
6. Relevant keyword

Domain Name Generators / Tools for Domain Name Suggestions
Here are some tools to help you find the right domain name.

1. Domainr
Domainr will add a unique and creative element to your domain name by suggesting alternative extensions.
Visit: Domainr.com

2. Wordoid
Wordoid users can generate random names or enter a keyword to use as root.
Visit: wordoid.com

3. Name Station
Name Station generates random names with and without a root keyword.
Visit: namestation.com

4. Dot-o-mator
Dot-o-mator is a simple tool that combines two words to create new names.
Visit: dotomator.com

How to buy a new domain name (from a registrar)?
Getting your own domain name:
A very good domain name can be the deciding factor that makes or breaks your brand, so choose one wisely.

1. Check the availability of the domain
Now that you have decided to buy an excellent domain name, it’s time to check if the domain name you want is available or not.

Check the availability of a domain name is easy enough. You can do a simple search with one of the domain name registrars or also apply domain registrars; or, use a whois search engine such as DomainTools to check if your domain name is available or has been taken.

If the domain name you are looking for is not available, try to see if different extensions are available instead.

You can check if a domain name is available using Godaddy.

2. Register your domain name with a domain name registrar
The domain name you chose is perfect and you have verified that it is available, now it’s time to register the domain name itself.
You can save the domain if it is available.

But, how to do it exactly?

The easiest way is to go to a domain registrar service site. These sites will allow you to register your domain name via annual contracts or a long-term contract. Domain registrar sites will charge you a small fee that typically ranges from $ 10 to $ 15 a year. However, domain names that are in high demand will cost more during the initial purchase.

The expensive domains can reach thousands of USD, but after that, the renewal fees are quite minimal (10 $ – 15 $ per year).

Buy a domain name and get to work
Now you should have enough information to help you register a custom domain name for your brand or business on your own.

Owning a domain name should be the first thing you need to do before activating. Once you have that, it’s time to focus on building your website.