Domain registration may seem overwhelming if you have never done it before. But, it is a very simple process if you plan ahead and follow a few easy steps. In this article, I’m going to show you three quick tips that you can use today to register your domain name with the least amount of hassle.
Tip #1: Use A Database To Find A Good Domain Name
Most people simply brainstorm domain names, hoping to think of a short, catchy name that is relevant to the subject matter of the web site they want to launch. Using this process can waste a lot of time. After all, you need to check the availability of each domain name that you brainstorm.
Instead, I recommend that you use DomainsBot.com. DomainsBot is a database of domain names that are either registered, available, or for sale. Using the “Advanced Search” option, you can input a word or phrase that you would like included in your domain name. You can also specify other criteria such as the length of your domain, the extensions (.com, .org, .net, etc.) you will consider and the maximum number of words you will accept in your domain name. You can save a significant amount of time by using this resource.
Tip #2: Use A Domain Registrar That You Can Trust
There are thousands of domain registrars that you can use to reserve your domain name. However, you should use a registrar that has a good reputation and has a long track record of reputable service. You can choose a high-profile registrar like GoDaddy.com and have the benefit of several add-on services (hosting, domain parking, etc.). Or you can choose a smaller registrar with a great track record and less add-on services such as NameCheap.com.
Most reputable registrars (including GoDaddy.com and NameCheap.com) offer every service that you will need to reserve and register a domain name. Great domain registrars try to make the process of registering and maintaining a domain as effortless for you as possible.
Tip #3: Protect Your Domain Name Contact Information
When you register a domain name, you are required to provide your contact information. The downside to doing so is that your contact details will be available to prying eyes via the WHOIS database. Many marketing companies access your contact information via the WHOIS database to solicit business.
If you do not want your contact information available to the public, you can choose to hide it. The domain registrar through which you reserve and register your domain name should offer a proxy service for your contact details. This service allows you the option to replace your own contact details in the WHOIS database with those of the domain registrar. As a result, you significantly reduce the potential of receiving unwanted overtures from companies or individuals. This proxy service usually costs approximately $1.00 per year for each domain name to which you apply the proxy.
Domain registration does not have to be complicated. If you simply plan ahead and use a reputable domain registrar with a good track record such as GoDaddy.com or NameCheap.com, you will find the process of registering a domain easy and quick.
