A domain name is your personal or business address on the Internet, it’s a piece of online real estate that you control completely—as long as you own the rights to that domain.
Domain can be fanciful or transparently descriptive, used for everything from a personal blog to a multinational company’s public site, and having one or more is essential for being visible in a crowded online world.
Knowing how domain names work and why they’re needed can help you choose the right one for your business or personal site.
If you’re ready to get started, we can help you buy a domain name today!
What is a domain?
The kings of old ruled with absolute authority over their domains—territories carved out by war or treaty. That idea also captures the spirit of today’s Internet domains, which allow anyone to claim a cyberspace “territory”—a website—that’s exclusively their own.
To secure that online domain, simply create a unique name and register it—or buy an existing one from a domain marketplace or private seller. That makes it possible to create a website that establishes a user’s online presence for a variety of personal or business reasons.
Every domain must have a unique name that distinguishes it from all others and points only to a single website. That’s why anyone buying and registering a domain needs to carefully research the perfect web address by conducting a domain name search to find out if it’s already in use. If so, it’s off-limits, unless the owner is willing to sell it. This process is known as domain name registration.
If a domain is available, any Internet user can buy it—which means paying a fee for exclusive rights to that name for a period of time that can range from one year to more than a decade.
After registering a domain name, it becomes the owner’s public address on the Internet and the gateway to accessing the website attached to the name. But a domain is only a proxy for the real locator—the IP address.
If you are looking to build a website, you may want to choose a domain registrar that is also a hosting provider. This will allow you to register a domain and host your site in one place.
Domain name system and IP address
Domains are designed to be easy to remember and type, serving as a user-friendly way to access websites. They use a combination of letters, numbers, or words to represent a unique site. However, behind these domains lie a more complex system of Internet Protocol (IP) addresses, which are long strings of numbers used by computers to communicate over the Internet.
Because IP addresses are difficult to remember and type, domains act as a convenient alias for these numerical addresses. The Domain Name System (DNS) is the protocol that connects domains with their corresponding IP address, enabling web servers to locate and access the website you’re searching for.
How are domain names configured?
To ensure smooth operation, domains are configured with several key components:
Subdomains: These are sections of a website that operate under a main domain. For instance, blog.yourwebsite.com could be a subdomain for a blog, while m.yourwebsite.com might be for a mobile version. Subdomains help create different versions of your website.
CNAME records: Short for Canonical Name, a CNAME record points a domain name to another domain. This helps in directing traffic to the correct address without using a specific IP address.
MX records: MX stands for Mail Exchange. These records specify the mail servers for a domain, directing where to send and receive emails.
A records: An A record maps a domain name to an IP address. If you only have a hostname and not an IP address, an A record helps by providing the necessary link.
PTR records: PTR stands for Pointer. This record maps an IP address to a hostname, essentially performing the reverse function of an A record.
TXT records: These records store text-based information about a domain. They’re often used for additional details like contact information or verification purposes.
How does DNS work?
DNS (Domain Name System) translates human-readable domains into machine-readable IP address. When you enter a web address in your browser, DNS converts it into an IP address so your computer can locate and access the website. This process, known as resolving, ensures you reach the correct site efficiently.
Domain name extensions
A fully qualified domain name (FQDN) is made up of a top-level domain and a subdomain, also known as a domain extension.
Top-level domains (TLDs) are indicated by letters found on the right of the “dot” in every domain name, such as .com, .net, or .info, as well as country codes like .ca or .au. Originally, only 6 top-level domains were available, but now many new ones are being added, such as .church or .photo.
These new top-level domain extensions allow for more flexibility in describing what a site is about, and they can be purchased at varying prices through both domain registrars and web hosting services.
The third level domain name is known as subdomains or mid-level domains, often used to organize websites within a larger domain. The second level domain (SLD) is the name chosen by its owner, appearing to the left of the TLD extension.
In the common placeholder website name, www.blog.example.com, ‘example’ is the second level domain name, ‘blog’ is the third level domain and ‘.com’ is the top level domain. And the ‘www’? Originally it was a machine designation that stood for the World Wide Web. Today it’s largely optional, and many domain names omit it altogether.
Domain name types
TLD: Top-level domains
The TLD, or top-level domain, is the suffix that appears at the very end of a domain name. Common examples include .com, .org, and .net. TLDs categorize websites and give users a general idea of the website’s purpose.
ccTLD: Country-code top-level domains
A ccTLD, or country-code top-level domain, is a specific TLD assigned to a particular country. All country code top-level domains (ccTLDs) are always two letters long. If you see a top-level domain with just two letters, it’s a country code. Examples include .uk for the United Kingdom, .ca for Canada, and .de for Germany. Using a ccTLD can help target a website’s audience to a specific geographic location.
gTLD: Generic top-level domain
A gTLD, or generic top-level domain, is the most common domain extensions used. These are broad categories that don’t indicate a specific location or purpose. Examples of generic top level domains include the .com, .net, and .org, as well as .info, .biz, and .edu.
Other domain name types
In addition to the above, there are several other types of domain names available, including:
Sponsored TLDs (sTLDs): These TLDs are restricted to specific organizations or industries. Examples include .gov for government entities and .edu for educational institutions.
Brand TLDs: A small number of companies have their own unique TLDs, such as .google and .amazon.
Geographic TLDs: These are relatively new TLDs that designate a specific geographic location, such as .london or .paris.
What’s the difference between a domain name and a URL?
URL, or Uniform Resource Locator, is different from domain names. A URL is a unique “address” that belongs to an individual file available on the Internet, and this string of numbers, characters, and letters tells a web browser where to go to get that unique piece.
The domain name is a part of a uniform resource locator (URL) that tells your browser where to look. The path that comes after the TLD extension directs it to the exact file or page you want. For example, the URL https://www.si.edu/learn-explore not only brings you to the Smithsonian Institution’s website but also takes you directly to the “Learn & Explore” page. From there, you can navigate to other related pages, each with its own unique URL.
How does buying a domain work?
Anyone can purchase a domain name, as long as it isn’t currently in use by someone else. Domain registries are responsible for managing the database of domain names and their associated IP addresses.
Most new users create a unique domain name that reflects their identity or business brand, and many resources are available to help with finding the right domain and checking for its availability against various TLD extensions. For example, a name might not be available as a .com, but users could purchase the same domain name with extensions like .edu or .biz.
It’s also possible to purchase an existing domain name. Users buy rights to names for terms of one to several years, and a name is only “owned” as long as it’s continually renewed.
Expired names can be purchased through domain marketplaces or brokerages, and it’s even possible to buy a domain name directly from its owner.
Whether a domain is new or bought secondhand, it must be registered with a domain name registrar or through a web host in order to be active on the web. ICANN, the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers, oversees the domain name system and ensures its stable and secure operation.
A domain name is a unique online address that not only captures a brand’s message and style, but also makes it accessible to searchers worldwide. Whether catchy and clever or plain and practical, domains put a human face on the numerical locators that keep traffic flowing on the web. A domain points to the web pages that make up a website, providing a human-readable address for accessing the site.
After registering your web address, your contact information becomes public knowledge unless your domain registrar includes domain privacy or you choose to purchase it. The web server hosts the website’s files and delivers them to users’ browsers when they access the domain name.
Why is choosing the right domain name important?
A well-chosen domain name not only reflects your brand identity but also plays a significant role in attracting visitors to your website. Here’s why getting it right matters.
Reflects your brand
A domain name that mirrors your brand name or is closely related to it helps create a sense of cohesion and professionalism.
For instance, apple.com is a domain that perfectly reflects the Apple brand. This consistency makes it easier for customers to find and remember your website. Imagine if Apple’s domain name was something unrelated like “techgadgets.com” — it wouldn’t have the same impact.
Enhances memorability
A memorable domain name is essential for attracting return visitors and word-of-mouth referrals. A short, simple, and unique domain like google.com is easy to remember and type correctly.
On the other hand, a complex domain name with hyphens, numbers, or obscure characters can be a major turnoff. Consider the struggles people might face when trying to remember a domain like “best-plumbing-services-in-london-123.com”.
Prevents legal issues
Choosing a domain name that infringes on an existing trademark or brand name can lead to costly legal battles. Before you register a domain, it’s smart to check if there are any trademarks or copyrights that could cause problems. This helps you avoid legal disputes down the road and keeps your brand safe and compliant with the law.
Supports effective marketing
A well-chosen domain name can also be a valuable marketing tool. It can convey the essence of your business, product, or service, and even influence search engine rankings.
For instance, a domain like poetshouse.com immediately conveys that the website is related to poetry, making it more likely to attract the target audience.
A good domain can also improve your website’s visibility in search engine results, making it more discoverable to potential customers.
8 essential tips for choosing the best domain name for your website
Keep it short and simple
Choose a domain name that’s concise and straightforward. Long or complicated names can be hard for users to remember and prone to typographical errors. By keeping your domain short and easy to type, you make it more accessible and user-friendly.
Avoid numbers and hyphens
Numbers and hyphens can make your domain name confusing and hard to remember. Numbers might be misunderstood (like “5” instead of “five”), and hyphens are often forgotten when typing.
Choose the right extension
The domain extension you choose (like .com or .org) should match your website’s purpose. For example, .com is widely used for commercial sites, while .org is often used by non-profit organizations. So, pick an extension that fits your website’s nature and appeals to your audience.
Be future proof
Choose a domain name that will still make sense as your business grows and changes. Avoid names that might limit your future plans or become outdated. For example, a name like “bestlaptops2023.com” could become irrelevant, whereas “techgenius.com” will stay relevant over time.
Check availability on social media
Before finalizing your domain name, ensure that matching usernames are available on major social media platforms. Consistent branding across these channels enhances visibility and makes it easier for customers to find and engage with your brand online.
Use a domain name generator
If you’re struggling to come up with a name, consider using a domain name generator. These tools can also suggest creative variations based on your business keywords or niche. They help you explore available options and find a distinctive domain that resonates with your brand identity and values.
Protect your domain
Once you choose a domain name, register it quickly to make sure no one else takes it. Consider buying similar names or common misspellings to protect your brand. For example, if your domain is “bakersdelight.com,” you might also want to register “bakerdelight.com” or “bakersdelite.com” to cover different variations and prevent confusion.
Think about localization
If your business operates in different countries, think about registering domains with local extensions. For instance, if you’re expanding into Canada, registering “yourbusiness.ca” along with your main “.com” domain can help you connect better with local customers and show relevance to regional markets.
How to register a domain name
When you’re ready to secure your domain name, follow these steps to register with Bluehost.
- In the domain search bar, enter your desired domain name.
- Use the dropdown menu to select your desired domain name extension, and then click Continue.
- If you can’t think of a name or your preferred domain name is taken, you can use Bluehost AI domain generator. Just enter a brief description of your website and click on Generate Domains. The tool will provide you with multiple suggestions.
- Review the search results to see if your domain name is available. If it’s available, click on Add to Cart. Bluehost may offer additional options like domain privacy protection, which hides your personal information from the public WHOIS database. Decide if you want these extras and add them to your cart if needed.
- Review the items in your cart, including the domain and any additional services you selected. Make sure everything is correct and click on Continue to Checkout.
- Provide your contact and billing information to complete the purchase. Bluehost accepts various payment methods, including credit cards and PayPal.
- Review your order summary and ensure all details are correct. Then, click the Submit Payment to finalize the domain registration.
- After completing the registration, you will receive a confirmation email from Bluehost with details about your new domain. You can manage your domain through the Bluehost control panel.
Conclusion
Securing a domain name is more than just claiming a web address—it’s about establishing your online identity and reaching your audience effectively. Whether you’re launching a new business, showcasing your portfolio, or creating a personal blog, a memorable domain is your gateway to the online world.
With Bluehost, buying a domain is streamlined and straightforward. By choosing Bluehost as your hosting provider, not only do you simplify the process of acquiring a domain, but you also unlock a host of features and support to build and grow your online presence.
FAQ’s about domain names
A domain name is the web address used to access a website. For example, in the URL https://www.example.com, “example.com” is the domain.
Domains are primarily used to provide memorable and easy-to-type addresses that point internet users to specific IP addresses. It allows users to access a web page without needing to remember complex numerical codes.
Domain names are managed by domain name registries, which work with registrars to handle the registration process. If you want to set up a website, you can choose and register a domain through a domain name registrar. There are more than 300 million domains registered around the world.
Often, but not always. A domain can be the same as the website name or brand (like “google.com” for Google), but some businesses may use different names for branding and domain purposes.
Using your name as a domain name can be beneficial for personal branding or if you are a freelancer or consultant. It makes it easier for people to find and remember your site.
No, you can’t own domain names permanently. You can register them for a specific period and then renew them continuously.
Yes, the domain owner can usually be traced through the WHOIS database unless they use privacy services provided by domain registrars to hide their information.
To find your domain name, log in to your account with the domain registrar or web hosting provider where you registered it. Once logged in, navigate to the “Domains” or “My Domains” section to view your domain. If you’re unsure, check your email for any confirmation or billing messages from the registrar that include your domain details.
