What to Know Before Domain Registration

Source: Thinkstock/ mavoimages

If you are thinking of starting a website for your personal or business needs, then you need to know a few things about the process. A website is like your own space on the internet, and the first step is domain registration. Now, cheap domain registration is available a dime a dozen, and to register a domain name for cheap, you need to know a few things.

1. When you register a cheap domain name, you need to read the fine print like your life depends on it

There are details that you will need to know, like the data that you will require, the privacy and the fees that you will have to pay for the transfer of one domain to another server.

domain registration, domain name registration

Source: Thinkstock/ Ivanko_Brnjakovic

2. When going for cheap domain registration, it is important that you understand the hidden fees that may be involved.

For example, domain transfer is something you may want to do at some point. You may want to transfer your domain to another registrar, which may involve a fee. You need to make sure you know how much you need to pay in order to make this happen. Sometimes, registrars do not clearly mention such fees, so they might take you by surprise when you need a transfer.

3. Before buying your domain name, make sure you know how long it has been registered for.

You will get the option of anything starting from a year to 5 years. Understand your needs and choose accordingly. Sometimes, registrars will include in the fine print that the registration fees you pay are non-refundable. And in case you have gone ahead and registered for 5 years with any of them, you are going to lose all that money. So make sure you read the fine print.

4. In the process of domain registration, you will have to put in your contact information.

This is for the whole world to see. Some people who are uncomfortable with disclosing their information may choose to go for domain privacy with added fees. Before you register your domain, you should first search for an accredited domain registrar to help you with your domain registration process. Accreditations signify that registrars have met certain legal criteria. So accreditation will give you an assurance that your dealings are safe if you register with such a company. Most registrars will also help you search for available domain names before you complete your domain name registration.

Portrait of an attractive businesswoman working at her desk in her office cubicle with paperwork and a laptop computer, looking at the camera and smiling broadly

Source: Thinkstock/ mavoimages

5. Choosing a domain name can be tricky because you must choose a memorable name

Even if you’re not intending to use your name just yet, you must know why you should register your domain name as soon as you start a business. Choosing and registering the right domain will protect your name from competitors. Your domain name should represent your business and be simple and catchy enough for people to remember it well.

6. The domain registrar will require you to provide your details for a successful registration, apart from making the payment, that is.

These details will be readily available on the World Wide Web unless you pay a fee and opt for a private registration. This way, your personal details will be made private and your information will be protected from public viewing.

7. You can search for popular keywords to help you with your domain name choice.

Using any one of these keywords in your name may help you attract traffic to your site. It is very important that you put in the effort to come up with the most appropriate domain name so that you can enjoy the benefits when you register your domain name even if you don’t intend to use it immediately.

Domain name registration is easy if you know what to do. Even if you don’t have immediate plans to use your domain name, you can still benefit from paying your yearly registration fee. Hence, you should register your domain name as soon as you start a business even if you don’t have plans to use it right away.

Featured Image Source: Thinkstock/ ArtemSam

Posted on May 18, 2023