The basics you need to know
Your domain name can be found in your web address URL. Simply put, it is the designated name you use to direct users to your site, such as mysite.com. Every single domain name found on the internet is unique and no two names are the same.
Registrations are usually on a first-come, first-serve basis. Domain names can be registered with different top level extensions, with the most common ones being .com, .net and .org. and many more.
Domain names and web hosting
Once you have your own domain name registered, you need to move on to the next step of having a website. This entails finding a service that lets you have enough space and bandwidth to store your data and make your site accessible to your audience.
A web host provides the server as well as the connection and the maintenance. Once you have uploaded your website to the server, you can then configure your email through the control panel online.
Registrations
Domain registration is a fairly straightforward process. You head over to a domain registrar online, type in your chosen domain name in their search field, and check if the name is still available. If it is, you can proceed with the registration by providing the required information and then make the payment.
In the event that the domain name is already taken, you will probably see some suggestions on different TLDs you can go for to help you decide. You can also come up with an alternative name for your site.
Renewals
Domain names have their own expiration dates, depending on the number of years you registered it for. Different registrars have different policies over their renewal period, including grace periods. Different fees apply as well.
When owners fail to renew their domain names in time, it often results in the loss of business and customers in a very damaging way. They lose access to their data and cannot use the website and email associated with the domain name.
Registrars also offer auto-renewal service to make sure owners don't forget to renew their domain names in time.
Transfers
For domain transfer, ICANN puts domains in a 90-day transfer lock if any changes are made with the name of the registrant, the email, or the company. Emails will be sent to both the new and old registrants to notify them of the transfer.
The key to succeeding at your domain game is choosing the best domain register that fits your needs. With these facts, take the step forward and register your own domain name the right way.
