Selecting The Best Domain Registrar

What is a Domain Name?

In simple terms a domain name is the unique name you type into the address bar of your internet browser. For example, www.domainname.com.The need for domain names arose because remembering IP addresses was not a feasible option. It is much easier to remember a meaningful series of letters than a series of numbers.

Who Needs a Domain Name?

Everyone living in this modern internet age needs a domain name. If you do not have a web presence you are losing out on customers and opportunity.Even if you do not intend on developing a website, you can buy a domain name from a registrar who offers a basic one page website builder. Look for one that offers it for free. Very easily, you can create an about me type of website detailing your credentials and experience. It gives your business or service a professional edge and helps you build a brand.When people Google you, you will be in control on the information they receive. Because domain names were meant to be easier to remember than IP addresses, they can help lodge your brand and business in the memory of web surfers. Think Facebook.com

How to Get a Domain Name?

A domain name is obtained through registration. One can register a domain name directly with a domain registrar, or oftentimes web hosting companies offer a domain name along with subscription to their service. Be careful when obtaining your domain name through your web hosting service. You do not know which registrar they are partnered with. It may be an unreliable or unethical registrar. You are also subject to a third party’s customer service, in the event you have problems.

Domain name prices depend on the domain name extension you choose (.com, .net, .org), the specific registrar fees and the length of registration. Because of all the variables, from registrar to registrar the prices can vary drastically.

Domain names require regular renewal.In case a domain name is not renewed by its expiration date, it enters a redemption period for about 30 days. During this period, your website will not work using that domain name. You can still renew it during this period, but for a large fee. If you do not renew within the redemption period, your domain name will go back into the pool of publicly available domain names.You will lose all rights over the domain name which can now be sold by any registrar.

How to Select a Domain Name Registrar?

The internet world has many domain name registrars which have brought about a considerable amount of competition in the market. There is a large variety in prices, features and policies. When selecting a registrar consider a couple of points before making a final decision.

• ICANN Accreditation: An ICANN accredited registrar means it is an accredited by the organization that regulates domain names. This ensures that a chosen domain name registered through the accredited registrar officially becomes a part of the internet.
• Price: This definitely is an important factor to be considered. Compare the deals being offered by different players and shortlist a few. Be sure to check the price to renew for the next year. Most registrars offer a promotional first year price and then increase their price radically the next year. Sometimes it’s not worth the coupon discount they’re offering for the first year, because you will just have to transfer the next year.
• Contract: A domain name is not bought for a lifetime. A contract is entered into when registering a domain. The contract has certain terms and conditions to be adhered to on both sides. Be careful to read the contract very carefully so that no fine print is missed. Many registrars insert clauses that are very carefully worded to their benefit. There may be hidden meanings. Get all doubts clarified with no room for confusion. The contract should be fair and clear so that no unwanted conflicts occur.
• Duration: There are different durations for which one can register a domain. The registration periods go in increments of 1 year. So, the minimum you can register is for 1 year, the next period would be 2 years and so on. Within the first 60 days of registration you cannot transfer your domain name to a different registrar. Some registrars make it difficult or impossible for you to transfer. Before purchasing a domain with a registrar for more than one year, Google the registrar name and do some research about their transfer practices. If there are many users who have had negative experiences, choose a different one. Even ICANN accredited registrars have unethical transfer practices. ICANN mainly ensures that the same domain name is not registered to multiple owners.

Domain names are an important part of websites. They are the website’s identity on the internet and need to be registered and regularly renewed. Research and go for the best domain registrar to experience uninterrupted and hassle-free service.

Choosing the best domain registrar as per one’s requirements is a must because this ensures the smooth functioning ofa website. Domain name prices are imperative when registering but other factors need to be considered when selecting a registrar. Take a close look at their contract terms, features and reputation.