A domain is a unique identifier of a website that allows users to access it. In simple words – it is the address of the site, which users type into the search bar. For example, in the combination https://genx-agency.com “genx-agency.com” – domain name.
Why you need a domain
Domains help users to easily remember and find your site. Having your own website gives an idea of the seriousness of the business, project. The address can be useful for good search engine optimization, creating professional domains.
What the domain structure consists of
The structure consists of three domain levels. Each of them has its own features. Let’s take a closer look at what domains there are.
First-level domain
In professional circles, it is known as the top level, abbreviated TLD. It is located at the very end, after the last dot. Examples of top-level domains include:
- General (.com, .net).
- Country-related (.us, .ua, .uk).
- Relatively new (.blog, .shop, .online).
These domains are often found in today’s Internet space.
Second-level domain
The middle level is the part of the name that comes before the first level. Domains should ideally have a direct link between the name of the site and its subject matter.
Third-level domain
This part of the address – Subdomain. Subdomains are supplementary elements of a website address that provide extra context. It is located before the second level. It is typically used to emphasize certain content.
For example, faq.example.com, where faq acts as a third-level domain.
Types of domain names
Let’s familiarize ourselves more specifically with the types of addresses and what a domain looks like:
- Geographic domains (.ua, .us, .de, etc.)
- Industry (.edu, .gov, .mil)
- Branded (.google, .apple, .microsoft)
- General (.com, .org, .net)
The choice of a suitable name depends on your project, target audience and sphere of activity. For example, a website domain for a local business in Ukraine will be .ua, while for an international project .com or .net may be suitable.
How much does a domain cost?
Usually the cost depends directly on who registers it. Therefore, before ordering such a service as website development, it is recommended to compare the relevance and prices of several companies at once.
The shorter and easier to remember the domain name, the higher the probability of high payment – hundreds or thousands of dollars for a year of use. When the desired name is already taken, you can pick up another address. The cost here depends on the specific domain.
For example, in 2024, the cost of a .com domain for a year is $14.5, .app – $20, .ua – $48, .org – $18.
Who owns the website address?
The person or entity that has registered a domain name is its owner, with the right to use, sell, or transfer it.
There are other parties: the domain registry (agrees to manage the top-level name), the registrar (the company that allows you to register the domain), and ICANN (the organization that coordinates the global domain name system).
When you purchase a domain name, you simply become the owner of a license to use it, but for a specific term.
How do I register a domain?
Domain registration is the most significant aspect of creating a website. To do this, take the following steps:
- Choose an attractive and memorable name that is related to your brand or project. It should be unique.
- Check the chosen name for availability as a domain, using special registrar services that check the name in the requested zone.
- Compare the registrars’ offers by price and conditions. Do not forget to take into account the provision of additional services, for example, protection of personal data, renewal, and support of the domain.
- After selecting a registrar, you need to create an account, specify the term of registration (usually from 1 year) and pay for the service.
- If you already have hosting, domain setup is done by specifying the DNS-servers of your hosting. It makes the website work properly.
A domain name is the main thing you build your online presence on.
How do I get a free domain?
The idea of buying an address for free may seem attractive, but this option has its own nuances. Many hosting providers, where you can buy a domain, offer hosting services, often only for the first year. Indeed, there are services that give subdomains without payment, but it does not sound so prestigious, especially for a serious business.
Name registrars run promotions, but such offers are mostly limited in time. Domains are often limited in functionality or supported by advertising. In terms of performance, the speed of these services is insufficient. For serious projects, it is still recommended to consider buying a domain – this will ensure full control over your online presence.
Planning to promote your business on the web? In our digital agency, there is an opportunity to order a turnkey website on favorable terms.
