An explanation of domain names and the history of domain name registration. Explains how registrar competition started and why prices have come down on mot sites.
What is a domain name? A domain name is a unique name, kind of like an e-mail address is unique, which is registered in a database called WHOIS through an organization called Network Solutions, Inc. (NSI). The domain name corresponds to a unique set of numbers called an IP (Internet Protocol) address. The reason we use domain names instead of IP addresses is that they are closer to our language. It would be difficult to market a site like this: "Go to 64.233.167.99 or 216.109.112.135 to search the internet!" A much easier way to do this is to say "Go to www.Google.com or www.yahoo.com to search the internet!" (Both Google and Yahoo are trade marked by Google, Inc., and Yahoo, Inc., respectively).
A domain name points to a computer called a "name server". The name server knows that your domain name corresponds to your web hosting server’s IP address and it routes the person who typed in your domain name to your web hosting server - to your web site. That is how people anywhere in the world can see your web site by typing your domain name.
In 1992, the National Science Foundation granted an exclusive contract to NSI to be the sole registrar of top level domain names. NSI also had a cooperative agreement with United States Department of Commerce ("DoC"). With no competition, consumers were at the mercy of NSI.
In 1998, NSI and the DoC amended their cooperative agreement to allow for competing registrars. NSI was forced to provide domain name registration to the competing registrars at wholesale prices, rather than the standard $34.99 annual fee. NSI still charges $34.99 per year.
In late 1998, the DoC assigned the responsibility of overseeing the transition to a competitive market for domain names and accreditation of new registrars to a new organization called the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN).
In 1999, ICANN began taking applications from companies who wanted to become registrars - and then capitalism took over: companies had to compete for business. Prices came down and service improved, however some are better than others. For a more detailed history of this transition, visit www.icann.org/registrars/accreditation-history.htm.
Even with the positive effects of competition in the domain name marketplace, the process of internet domain name registration remains a mystery for many.
There are a lot of companies that want to charge you hundreds of dollars to do the simple task of domain name registration for you. There are some registration companies who will charge you $35 just to register a domain. And there are web site consultants who charge over $100 to do the work for you. But you can do it yourself in about 15 minutes and it can cost as little as $1.99 for a year. If you do some research, learn a little and work smart, you can save yourself some money - and some headaches.
Reigniting the Spark: Strategies to Revive Your Partner's Libido
Marriage often brings with it a sense of security and comfort, but it can also lead to a decline in sexual desire, especially for women. The initial excitement and novelty that fuels passion can fade, leaving couples in a monotonous routine compounded by life's stresses. While it's a common narrative that men remain eager for intimacy despite stress, women may experience a significant drop in libido under similar conditions. However, this doesn't have to be the end of passion in marriage. With intentional effort and understanding, it's possible to rekindle the flame of desire and strengthen your connection.
How to Get Rid of Belly Fat - 7 Tips
A common question from both men and women is how to get rid of belly fat. Belly fat is the most difficult fat to lose, but with these seven tips, you will lose belly fat fast.
Google AdSense and AdWords - Like Yin and Yang
Explains what Google's AdSense and Adwords are, how they relate to one another and how they are used together to drive traffic and make money on line.
