Domain Name Basics

74.125.224.72…69.171.224.11…208.80.152.201.

Could you remember a string of numbers that long?

Nope me neither. But that’s what computers use to locate websites on the internet. Thankfully, we can use domain names like google.com, facebook.com and wikipedia.org to navigate to our favorite sites instead of lengthy ip addresses. Domain names are the shorthand that make it possible to find the information we need and want online.

That’s why domain names play an such an important role in your digital marketing strategy. Choosing the right name can extend your brand, make it easy for customers to find you online, and help with search engine optimization. It’s a really big decision that can impact your bottom line for years to come, so we’ve put together some tips to help you find and buy your own domain name.

1. Buy your domain from a reputable domain name registrar. We recommend name.com, it’s the company we’ve been using happily for the past 5 years.
2. Make sure that your domain is registered in your name and the name of your business. Too often we’ve had clients come to us with a redesign, and the domain name has been registered under another agency’s name or the name of their last IT guy. It’s not a good move, because technically the domain belongs to them! (Your web design agency can be listed as the admin, technical and/or billing contact, but NOT the registrant contact.) While you are checking this, make sure that all of your information is correct, and that your passwords are secure.
3. Choose a .com domain. Unless your audience is extremely tech savvy or young, stick with .com. It’s easier to remember or explain than .ninja, .io or one of the other new top level domain extensions.
4. Keep it short, sweet, relevant and memorable. This is the hardest part of choosing a domain. Suggestion tools like domainsbot.com and domainnamesoup.com can make this task easier, and most registrars also have tools on their site to help you find a good domain.

Of course if you need additional help in finding or buying domain names, Dirigible Studio offers expert assistance for all your domain name needs. Just get in touch!