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Domain Name

Overview

  • What is a domain name?
  • Free domain names
  • Why have your own custom domain name?
  • Tips on selecting a domain name
  • Where to get your own domain name
  • Assignments

What a domain name is

  • A domain name, also known as a URL is a web address. It is the www.something.com.

Free site names

  • Many web site building companies or host companies offer a free domain name with the hosting of your site. It's usually either a "subdomain" (e.g., mystore.itcstore.com) or a unique URL based on the main hosting company's domain name (e.g., www.storesonline.com/site/mystore).
  • For specifics on the free domain name you have the option of using as well as the costs involved in getting a custom domain name ask your coach. Sometimes there is a set-up fee as well as a monthly domain-hosting fee with the web site hosting company.
  • The benefit of a "subdomain" or unique URL name is that it's free. Also, when it comes to marketing your site online your domain name doesn't necessarily have to play a big role. The disadvantage of not having your own domain name is that when you apply offline marketing, a "subdomain" or unique URL is difficult for people to remember because it tends to be very long.

Why have your own domain name

  • Better branding/name recognition ability.
  • It's easier for your visitors to remember.
  • Some search engines may rank you higher.
  • More effective in offline marketing tactics.

Tips on selecting a domain name

  • Select a domain name that pertains to your site offering.
  • Select one that is as short as possible.
  • Select one that is easy to spell.
  • Select one that is easy to remember
  • Select one that has shock value or will leave an impression in the minds of your visitors.
  • Select a domain name that includes your main keywords in it. Some search engines place importance on domains that use the searched-on keywords in the domain name. Visit www.searchengines.com/urlkeywords.html for more information.
  • Try to select a domain name that ends with ". com." A ". net" ending would be your second choice. A ".org" is generally used for nonprofit organizations.
  • Check whether or not your preferred domain name is available at www.godaddy.com.

Where to get your own domain name

  • One of the best and cheapest places to register a domain name is at www.godaddy.com. You can register your domain name there for $8.95/year. Another place for registering your domain name is at www.000domains.com.

Articles

  • Check out the following article on choosing domain names: www.wilsonweb.com/wmta/domain-name.htm, inc.com's article, and another article from inc.com.

Assignments

  • Brainstorm possible domain names for your web site and check their availability.
  • Ask your coach or the Internet hotline coaches what costs are involved in registering, setting up, and hosting your domain name.
  • Register a domain name. (You may want to check with your coach 1st.)