Key highlights
- Understand what is a domain name, a digital address that makes websites accessible without remembering complex IP numbers.
- Learn how the Domain Name System (DNS) connects domain names to web servers, enabling smooth user access to online content.
- Explore the structure of domain names, including top-level, second-level and third-level components, to make informed choices.
- Know the difference between domain names and URLs to manage your website structure and navigation more effectively.
- Uncover how to choose, register and manage a domain name confidently, including best practices and common tools for beginners.
Starting a website can feel exciting and maybe a little overwhelming. Between designing pages, picking a hosting and setting up your brand, there’s one decision that comes first: choosing the name people will type to find you online. That’s where a domain comes in.
Think of it as the starting point of your digital journey. The right choice makes your website easier to find, helps build trust with visitors and gives your project a professional edge from day one. Whether you’re launching a blog, an online store or a personal portfolio, understanding what is a domain name, will save you a lot of time.
With more than 371.7 million domain names registered worldwide, having the right one is essential for standing out, building trust and creating a brand identity. Let’s break down how domain names work, the different types and how you can register your own.
What is a domain name?
A domain name is the human-friendly, text-based web address that makes it easy to find websites on the internet. Instead of typing long strings of numbers known as IP addresses, users can simply enter a name like google.com or wikipedia.org to access websites instantly.
Think of a domain name as the digital equivalent of a physical address; it points visitors to the exact location of your site on the internet. Without domain names, browsing the web would mean remembering dozens of complicated numbers, which is nearly impossible for most people.
Every internet domain name is unique and acts as an identifier, ensuring that when someone enters it into their browser, they reach the correct website or online resource.
Also read: Why Do I Need a Domain Name?
How do domain names work?
When you type a domain name into your browser, it doesn’t know directly where to go. Instead, it relies on the Domain Name System (DNS), a global network often called the internet’s “phone book.”
Here’s how it works step by step:
- Request to DNS servers: Your browser sends the domain name request to DNS servers, which look up the domain’s DNS records.
- Finding the name servers: These records identify the name servers (for example, ns1.bluehost.com and ns2.bluehost.com) that are connected to your hosting provider.
- Connecting to the web server: The name servers point the request to the right web server, the computer that stores your website’s files and runs software like Apache or Nginx.
- Delivering the website: The web server retrieves your site’s content and sends it back to the browser, allowing users to access websites quickly and smoothly.
In simple terms, the DNS translates a human-friendly internet domain name into an IP address, ensuring your browser finds and loads the correct website within milliseconds. For a deeper understanding, watch our video on how domains work.
Also read: How Do Domains Work?
What are the different types of domain names?
The Domain Name System (DNS) organizes the massive domain name space using a tree-like hierarchy. At the very top sits the root domain, represented by a simple dot (.). Below it are multiple levels, each serving a unique purpose.
This structure results in different types of domain names, including:
- Top-level domains (TLDs)
- Second-level domains (SLDs)
- Third-level domains (subdomains)
Let’s break them down in detail.
Top-level domains (TLDs)
A top-level domain (TLD), also called a domain extension, is the part of an internet domain name that appears after the last dot, for example, .com in bluehost.com. TLDs indicate the website’s purpose, category or geographic location.
As of 2025, there are thousands of top-level domain available. Choosing the right one can help your website stand out and connect with your target audience.
Categories of TLDs:
- Generic top-level domains (gTLDs)
- Sponsored top-level domains (sTLDs)
- Managed by specific organizations and restricted to certain groups.
- Examples: .gov (government), .edu (academic institutions), .mil (U.S. military), .travel (tourism).
- Great for building credibility if your website fits the criteria.
- Country code top-level domains (ccTLDs)
- Two-letter codes representing countries or regions.
- Examples: .in (India), .uk (United Kingdom), .de (Germany), .ca (Canada).
- Some ccTLDs, like .ai (Anguilla) and .gg (Guernsey), are now popular globally for tech and gaming industries.
Second-level domains (SLDs)
A second-level domain sits directly to the left of the TLD. In www.bluehost.com, “bluehost” is the SLD.
- Often represents a brand name, company or keyword.
- Some countries use structured SLDs with TLDs, like .co.uk for businesses in the UK or .com.es in Spain.
- Academic institutions may use .edu.es or .ac.uk depending on regional rules.
In short, the SLD is the core identity of your internet domain name, making it crucial for brand recognition.
Third-level domains (Subdomains)
A third-level domain, commonly called a subdomain, appears before the SLD. It creates a new section of your site without needing a new registration.
Examples:
- blog.yourwebsite.com (for articles)
- shop.yourwebsite.com (for eCommerce)
- support.yourwebsite.com (for help centers)
Subdomains are widely used for blogs, online stores or localized websites. Large organizations like the BBC use deeper structures:
- news.bbc.co.uk (four-level domain)
- www.village.fairport.ny.us (five-level domain)
While uncommon, domains can technically have multiple levels.
In summary, the types of domain names (TLDs, SLDs and subdomains) work together to make the domain name system flexible, organized and easy for website owners to build meaningful online identities. To learn more, watch our video on different types of domains.
Also read: Free Domain Name with Hosting in 2025
What is the difference between a domain name vs URL?
Many people confuse a domain names with a URL (Uniform Resource Locator), but they are not the same. A domain name is like your street address, while a URL is the step-by-step directions that guide you to a specific room in that building. Both are essential in how users access websites, but they serve different roles in the domain name system (DNS).
Let’s break it down.
1. Domain name = The address
A domain name is the core part of your online identity. It translates a numeric IP address into a human-friendly web address.
- Example of a valid domain name: bluehost.com
- Purpose: Helps users reach your homepage or root domain.
- Setup: Registered through a domain registrar, connected via DNS servers and linked to a web server.
- Importance: A unique internet domain name ensures your website is easy to find and builds brand trust.
2. URL = The full path
A URL contains the entire string needed to access a specific page, file or service on your site. It always includes the domain name, but adds extra details.
Example URL:
https://www.bluehost.com/blog/how-to-choose-a-domain-name
Parts of a URL:
- Protocol: https:// (communication method)
- Subdomain: www (optional prefix, can also be blog. or shop.)
- Domain name: bluehost.com
- Path: /blog/how-to-choose-a-domain-name (location of a page or file)
In short, the domain name is just the address, while the URL is the full set of directions.
Quick comparison: Domain name vs URL
| Feature | Domain name | URL |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | Website’s address | Full path to a page, file or resource |
| Example | bluehost.com | https://bluehost.com/products/domains |
| Includes protocol? | ❌ | ✅ |
| Includes subdomain? | Optional | ✅ |
| Includes subdirectory path? | ❌ | ✅ |
| Used for | Branding, navigation | Linking to specific content or services |
Why the difference matters
- Domain names build your brand identity and are registered through a domain registrar as part of the domain name space.
- URLs give browsers the exact path to resources, helping users navigate your site efficiently.
- Together, they allow the domain name system (DNS) to connect human-friendly names with the right IP address and ensure visitors reach the correct web server.
Put simply: Your domain name is your online address and your URL is the full set of directions to specific destinations on your site.
What is a domain name registrar?
A domain name registrar is a company authorized to sell and manage domain names. Without them, website owners couldn’t officially claim or manage their online identity. Registrars connect you to the domain registry, the central database that stores records of every valid domain name on the internet.
In simple terms, think of a registrar like a digital “post office.” Just as the post office registers your physical address, a registrar registers your internet domain name so users can find your site online.
What does a domain registrar do?
A domain registrar makes it simple for individuals and companies to:
- Search for a desired domain and check availability.
- Register a new domain name and connect it to hosting.
- Renew an expiring domain to avoid losing ownership.
- Transfer domains between providers.
- Manage DNS settings, including name servers, lookups and advanced configurations.
This also includes managing subdomains, linking to web services and ensuring the domain points correctly to the web server that hosts your site.
Who regulates domain registrars?
All registrars are accredited and regulated by ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers), with oversight from the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA). Together, they:
- Approve generic TLDs (gTLDs) and country codes (ccTLDs).
- Maintain the domain name space and domain registries.
- Oversee the main elements and main groups of the DNS hierarchy.
- Ensure the complete domain name system works globally across the internet infrastructure.
- Coordinate with network information centers that manage regional or specialized internet resources.
Thanks to ICANN and IANA, your fully qualified domain name (FQDN), like www.example.com, is globally recognized and works the same way everywhere.
Also read: Domain Registry vs Registrar
WHOIS, domain ownership and transparency
When you register a domain, your information (like the administrative contact and physical location) is stored in the WHOIS database. This helps verify domain owners and prevent abuse.
- WHOIS Lookup: Check who owns a domain or when it expires.
- ICANN Lookup: Confirm registry data and domain details.
- Useful for domain trading, buying or selling names already registered by others.
Why it matters for website owners
- The early days of the web had only a handful of TLDs like .com and .org, originally intended for broad use. Today, there are thousands, from generic TLDs like .store or .tech to country codes like .in (India) or .fr (France).
- Registrars ensure you can secure a great domain that aligns with your brand and connects with your audience.
- Modern registrars like Bluehost integrate domain registration, hosting, DNS management and security into one platform, saving time and effort
Also read: WHOIS Domain Lookup: Mastering Its Use for Your Website
How to choose and register the perfect domain name?
At Bluehost, we know your domain name is often the first impression people have of your website. A great domain builds trust, boosts memorability and gives your brand a professional edge. That’s why we make it simple to choose and register your desired domain with confidence.
Tips for choosing a domain name
When we guide users in selecting a valid domain name, here’s what we recommend:
- Keep it short and simple: Shorter names are easier to type and remember.
- Align it with your brand: Your primary domain should reflect who you are or what you do.
- Use keywords wisely: A name like denverdesigns.com instantly communicates location and service.
- Prefer .com if available: While generic TLDs like .net, .org and .tech are strong options, .com is still the most trusted.
- Test your ideas: Share them with friends, if they can’t spell or recall it easily, users won’t either.
- Think long-term: Choose a complete domain name that can grow with your brand.
Example: If you’re a chef in Denver, a name like milehighchef.com is short, brandable and locally relevant.
Also read: How to Choose a Domain Name – Best Tips & Guide
Domain extensions to consider
We offer thousands of domain extensions to match your project:
- .com: The gold standard, originally intended for commercial companies.
- .net: Reliable for tech or network-focused companies.
- .org: A strong choice for non-profits.
- .store, .shop, .tech: Industry-specific generic TLDs that signal your niche.
- Country codes (ccTLDs): Like .in (India), .uk (United Kingdom), .eu (European Union), .de (Germany). These build local trust and visibility.
How to register a domain name with us
As an ICANN-accredited registrar, we connect you directly to the global domain registry. Here’s how easy it is to register your desired domain with us:
- Search availability: Use our Bluehost domain search tool to find your perfect name.
- Choose your domain: If your first choice isn’t available, explore other domains or extensions.
- Register securely: Your first year is free when you bundle with our hosting.
- Add WHOIS privacy: We protect your personal info in the WHOIS directory.
- Configure DNS: We handle the name servers so your domain connects seamlessly to your hosting.
- Renew with ease: We offer auto-renewal so you never lose your domain.
Why manage domains with Bluehost?
We provide more than just registrations. With us, you also get:
- All-in-one dashboard: Manage domains, hosting and web services together.
- Subdomain creation: Add blog.yourbusiness.com or shop.yourbusiness.com in a few clicks.
- Built-in privacy: Keep your physical location and contact details hidden from spammers.
- 24/7 support: Our experts guide you through setup, renewal or even domain trading.
From the early days of the internet to today’s complex internet infrastructure, our role has remained the same: making it easy for you to secure and manage a fully qualified domain name (FQDN) that supports your brand for the long run.
At Bluehost, we believe a domain name is more than an address; it’s your online identity. And we’re here to help you choose, register and manage it with confidence. To see how simple it is, watch our video on how to register a domain name with Bluehost.
Why should you register your domain with Bluehost?
Choosing the right domain registrar isn’t just about grabbing a name, it’s about setting your site up for success. That’s where Bluehost stands out.
We’re an ICANN-accredited registrar and hosting provider that helps beginners and website owners get online quickly and easily.
| Feature | Bluehost | GoDaddy |
| Free domain with hosting | ✅ Yes | ❌ Extra cost |
| WHOIS privacy included | ✅ Included | ❌ Paid add-on |
| DNS + hosting integration | ✅ Seamless setup | ⚠️ Manual configuration |
| Beginner-friendly dashboard | ✅ Simple, all-in-one panel | ⚠️ More technical interface |
| 24/7 customer support | ✅ Live chat + phone | ✅ Phone only (live chat limited) |
Here’s why Bluehost is the smart choice for your domain name registration:
1. Free domain for the first year
When you sign up for a hosting plan, Bluehost includes a free domain name for your first year. It’s a simple way to reduce startup costs while still getting a registered domain from a reliable provider.
2. Seamless setup and DNS management
We connect your domain to your server, handle DNS setup and provide an easy control panel to manage settings and subdomains. No technical knowledge is required.
Tip: You can also create subdomains like blog.[yourbusiness].com or support.[yourbusiness].com with just a few clicks, perfect for growing brands.
3. Built-in security and WHOIS privacy
Bluehost offers WHOIS privacy protection to keep your administrative contact info secure. You’ll also get tools like:
- Free SSL certificate
- Automatic domain renewal
- Domain transfer support
- Easy management of your domain registration information
4. Trusted support and uptime
Whether you’re launching a business website, blog or portfolio, Bluehost provides 24/7 support, solid uptime and expert guidance. So, you can move from domain confusion to confidence.
5. Build your brand from one dashboard
Manage everything from domains to hosting in one dashboard, whether you’re just starting or managing multiple sites.
It’s everything you need to launch and grow, all in one place, with Bluehost WordPress hosting.
Final thoughts
Understanding ‘what a domain name is’ sets the foundation for everything you’ll do online. It’s more than just a name; it’s how people find and trust your business. The Domain Name System connects your domain to your IP address and web server, making your site easy to access.
If you’re new to domain name registration, we make it simple at Bluehost. We help you search, register and manage your domain. You also get a free domain for the first year with hosting. Plus, our built-in DNS tools and expert support are here whenever you need them. Whether you’re starting a blog, launching a store or building your first site, your domain name is where it all begins.
Start your journey today — register your domain with Bluehost now.
FAQs
ICANN, the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers, oversees domain name registries, regulates name servers and ensures IP addresses are properly assigned. It keeps the internet protocol stable, secure and reliable so domain owners and users worldwide can connect without disruption.
You can find your registered domain name by logging into your registrar account, checking WHOIS lookup or reviewing DNS settings with your name server details. At Bluehost, we provide an easy dashboard so domain owners quickly manage their domains.
Yes, a website requires a domain name to map human-friendly words to IP addresses. Without it, users would need to remember long numbers. Bluehost makes this simple by registering domains and connecting them seamlessly to hosting through DNS and name servers.
A website name is what you call your site, while a domain name is the official internet protocol address users type to access it. For example, “Bluehost Blog” is the site name, but bluehost.com is the registered domain.
In computing, a domain name is a structured label that translates into IP addresses via DNS. It identifies computers, resources and name servers in the network. This organization helps manage connectivity, security and domain name registries across the global internet infrastructure.
A domain registry is an organization that manages databases of domain owners and available extensions. It maintains domain name registries, updates name servers and ensures internet protocol standards are followed. Registries coordinate with ICANN and registrars like Bluehost to keep domains active.
A domain name in email identifies the server handling messages, mapping addresses to IP addresses and name servers. For example, in [email protected], “bluehost.com” is the domain that directs messages through DNS to the correct internet resources.
Yes, at Bluehost we include a free domain name for the first year when you purchase hosting. This lets you secure a great domain without extra cost, connect it through our DNS and name server setup and start building online.
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