A Premium Domain Name Make All the Difference

written by

Joe Uddeme

Joe Uddeme

A Premium Domain Name Make All the Difference

Domain Buying Guides

The Internet evolves and is shaped by countless businesses, people, non-profits and an array of countless other entities looking for eyeballs in an ever-changing World.

A Premium Domain Name Make All the Difference

Your Premium domain name strategy is crucial in today’s clutter. Brand’s work hard to engrain their product or service, and establish market positioning, relevance—and ultimately dominance.

Savvy brands understand the importance of creating something catchy and memorable. They need to separate themselves from their competition in ways that remain top-of-mind for their targeted audience.

Let’s review the top ten below according to Wikipedia.org:

Rnk Company Rev($B) FY Employees Mkt. Cap Location Founded
1 Amazon $232.9 2018 647,500 $802.3 Seattle 1994 [1][2]
2 Alphabet Inc. $136.8 2018 98,771 $791.01 Mountain View, CA 1998 [3][4]
3 JD.com $55.7 2017 137,975 $34.84 Beijing 1998 [5][6]
4 Facebook $55.01 2018 25,105 $486.39 Menlo Park, CA 2004 [7][8]
5 Alibaba $39.90 2018 66,421 $432.12 Hangzhou 1999 [9][10]
6 Tencent $36.39 2017 44,796 $434.66 Shenzhen 1998 [11][12]
7 Netflix $15.8 2018 5,400 $153.39 Los Gatos, CA 1997 [13][14]
8 Booking $12.7 2017 22,900 $92.94 Norwalk, CT 1996 [15]
9 Baidu $12.40 2016 45,887 $88.11 Beijing 2000 [16][17]
10 eBay $10.75 2018 14,000 $32.07 San Jose 1995 [18][19]

 

Each one of these companies went out and acquired their core-premium domain name. They understood the value of the .com as their global brand. Let’s dig a bit deeper in the strategy of one of the major power-houses listed above.

Facebook.com, listed at number four also owns many other valuable pieces of digital, beach front real estate. Take for example, FB.com which complements the existing digital strategy that was already in place. Facebook has parlayed their web presence by building another piece of digital real estate on their own majestic piece of real estate.

Another example is Booking.com, with more than $12B in revenues. They do a phenomenal job of attracting users with constant ad-driven messaging. They have partnerships with more than 660,000 hotels and provide a valuable service to their clientele.

Why Premium Domains?

Let’s continue with the beach-front real estate analogy. For the past thirty years, brands swallow up the short, brandable .com domains. These are the assets that provide the most upside, equity and long-term value to the brands. These assets can hold generic value, such as Booking.com, or be more brandable, such as EBay.com or Baidu to name a few.

Premium domain names have commercial appeal and are typically, very memorable. Brands spend huge amounts of money attracting new users and creating brand credibility. Digital strategists are competing for a smaller piece of the available premium domain name inventory.

Sure; anyone can build a brand, using any extension, to the right of the dot. It’s how you develop the brand, and create long-term equity for your company. Companies should always acquire the shortest variation for their brand. This doesn’t have to be the only strategy. Companies should outline a comprehensive domain name strategy that not only covers their brand, but any additional reputation management, or brand defense needed to protect your corporate brand positioning.

Simply put, premium domain names add the following instant upside:

  • Brand-dominance and positioning
  • Equity toward the long-term exit strategy
  • Inability to build—defensive strategy against your competition

Own the real estate before your competitors do!

  • Direct Navigation Search—people search the keyword every day!

How many eyeballs are you missing?

  • IP and Trademark positioning
  • Credibility and Awareness

Most successful brands have identified the importance of the premium domain name. Most of them now have dedicated digital strategists or digital departments to handle the larger need for digital integration and social media components.

Brands should spend wisely, and methodically when securing a new brand, or piece of beach-front digital real estate.

Get it right the first time

Companies should always use this checklist to make sure they are not leaving their money on the table

  • Hire an expert—when you get your maintenance on your car, do you do it yourself? Spend your time wisely, on what you do best and leave domain acquisitions to the experts!
  • Conduct Research—who owns the asset, and for how long? Is it being used? Are there active trademarks? What’s the history of the link profile?
  • Variations and Alternatives—brands need to nail it. To do this, sometimes, they need to think outside the box. Find viable alternative assets that define your image and brand.
  • Negotiation is key—do you negotiate for a living? We do. We remove the emotional attachment and red tape to manage both buyers and sellers’ expectations.
  •  Be Flexible—sometimes you have to give a little, to get a little. Don’t be afraid to be flexible and offer ways to mutually-benefit the other party in your transaction.
  • Be Honest—honesty and integrity go along way. Be true to your word, and don’t go back on what you say. This is critical for deals to succeed.
  • Ask Questions—hold your broker or expert accountable and ask appropriate questions. Some domain transactions move quickly. A clear line of communication is necessary to save valuable money and time.
  • Due-Diligence—dig for more information, market comps, fire-power necessary to make the case. Goes back to the research tidbit above.
  • Timing—don’t hunt for a CBD-themed/ Marijuana-type name when there is mass decriminalization and legalization occurring. The market is just too hot, and pricing will be way too inflated. Instead, names should be selected, “ahead-of-the-curve”.

Save money

When buying a premium domain name, it’s important to ask the right questions. This can save the buyer tons of money in the long-run. The most widely used example relates to trademarks tied to a name, or brand. Many companies have secured a domain name for commercial use, but never take the time to search the trademark database. This quick search can save clients thousands of dollars.

Premium Domain Names make total sense for any emerging brand, looking to scale their brand accordingly. Shortening the global domain name is still the foundation for successful growth. The top companies around the World continue to focus on the sensible .com for their brand growth.

This validates the need for superb, premium domain name for your company and brand. Get it right the first time and save money in the long-run while adding that much needed credibility and equity value.

Drop us a line to discuss your domain name strategy and digital branding plan. Click here, to acquire your next premium domain name.

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How to Buy Domain Anonymously

What is Anonymous Domain Registration? Anonymous domain registration is a service that allows individuals and businesses to register a domain name without revealing their personal details in the public WHOIS database. Instead of displaying the domain owner’s personal information, such as name, address, and contact details, the registration uses generic proxy details. This approach provides an additional layer of privacy and security, ensuring that your personal information remains confidential. Adding domain privacy can anonymize ownership details in the WHOIS database, thus enhancing security and confidentiality. Anonymous domain registration is particularly valuable for protecting personal information, preventing unwanted solicitations, and maintaining confidentiality in sensitive situations. Domain ownership privacy is maintained through anonymous registration, which conceals personal information from the public WHOIS database, safeguarding the identity of domain owners against potential threats and unsolicited communications. Using a domain privacy service further ensures that your personal details are kept private and secure. Benefits of Anonymous Domain Registration Registering a domain name anonymously offers numerous benefits, including: Protection of Personal Information: Anonymous domain registration keeps your personal details, such as name, address, phone number, and email ID, private. This prevents your information from being publicly accessible in the WHOIS database. Additionally, domain privacy protection services can further obscure your personal information during domain registration. Using a domain privacy service ensures that your personal information remains hidden from public view. Prevention of Spam and Unwanted Solicitations: By withholding ownership information, anonymous domain registration helps you avoid unsolicited communication and spam. Enhanced Security: Anonymous registration adds an extra layer of security against cyber crimes like ransomware attacks and domain hijacking. The domain owner plays a crucial role in maintaining security and privacy by ensuring that their contact information is protected. Confidentiality: It allows you to maintain secrecy in sensitive situations, such as buying premium domains – or selling them – without revealing your identity. Emotional Pricing Elimination: Anonymous transactions eliminate emotional pricing by the seller based on the buyer’s identity and intention. Discreet Domain Procurement: Companies can discreetly procure domains for internal products, brand expansions, or mergers without tipping off competitors. Understanding the WHOIS Database What is the WHOIS Database? The WHOIS database is a publicly accessible repository that stores information about registered domain names. Managed by the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), this database contains essential details about domain owners, including their name, address, phone number, and email address. The primary purpose of the WHOIS database is to provide transparency and accountability in the domain name registration process. It allows users to look up information about a domain name and its owner, ensuring that the domain registration landscape remains open and trustworthy. Risks of Public WHOIS Data While the WHOIS database serves an important role, having personal details publicly available can pose several risks for domain owners: Spam and Unsolicited Contacts: With personal information readily accessible, domain owners may find themselves inundated with unwanted emails, phone calls, or physical mail from marketers and spammers. Identity Theft: Cybercriminals can exploit the information in the public database to steal or hijack a domain, leading to potential financial and reputational damage. Privacy Breaches: Publicly available personal information can be used to compromise a domain owner’s privacy and security, making them vulnerable to various forms of cyber threats. By understanding these risks, domain owners can make informed decisions about protecting their personal details through anonymous domain registration and other privacy measures. Why Choose Anonymous Domain Registration? Anonymous domain registration is a crucial step in protecting your personal information and maintaining online privacy. By choosing anonymous domain registration, you can ensure that your personal details, such as name, address, phone number, and email ID, are not publicly accessible in the WHOIS database. This is particularly important for individuals and businesses that value their online privacy and want to prevent unwanted solicitations, spam emails, and identity theft. By keeping your personal information private, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your online presence is secure and your identity is protected. How to Register a Domain Anonymously There are several methods to register a domain name anonymously, including: Using a Domain Registrar that Offers Anonymous Registration: Services like Namecheap or Google Domains provide options for anonymous domain registration. Additionally, some registrars offer a free domain name with their services, which can be an added benefit. Utilizing a Proxy Service: Services like Domains by Proxy or Uniregistry can mask your personal information, ensuring it remains private. Registering Through a Third-Party Service: Using a VPN or a domain anonymization service can help you register a domain without revealing your identity. Using a Domain Broker or Marketplace: Engaging a domain broker or using a domain name marketplace can help maintain anonymity during the registration process. Some registrars offer a free domain with hosting packages, which can lower overall costs and enhance the appeal of their services. Using a Domain Privacy Service: A domain privacy service can protect your personal information by replacing it with the service’s contact details. Verifying Domain Privacy Protection To verify whether your website has domain privacy protection, you can easily check the WHOIS database by entering your domain name in the search bar. Look for a generic name, contact address, or email address that forwards messages to you. If you find any of your details apart from what’s in the Domain Information panel, consider enabling domain privacy. You can also check with your domain registrar to see if they offer domain privacy protection services. Ensuring that your domain has privacy protection is a simple yet effective way to safeguard your personal information and maintain your online privacy. Security and Protection Anonymous domain registration provides an additional layer of security and protection for domain owners. By keeping personal information private, individuals and businesses can: Protect Against Cyber Threats and Unwanted Exposure: Keeping your personal details hidden helps safeguard against cyber threats and unwanted exposure. Prevent Domain Hijacking and Fraud: Anonymous registration reduces the risk of domain hijacking and fraudulent activities. Maintain Confidentiality in Sensitive Situations: It ensures that your identity remains confidential in sensitive transactions. Enhance Security Against Ransomware Attacks and Other Cyber Crimes: Anonymous registration adds a layer of security against various cyber crimes. Ensure Personal Information Remains Hidden from Public View on WHOIS: Your personal details are not displayed in the public WHOIS database, protecting your privacy. It is essential to note that while anonymous domain registration offers numerous benefits, it is crucial to choose a reputable domain registrar that provides reliable privacy protection services. Additionally, individuals and businesses should be aware of the potential limitations and considerations when registering a domain name anonymously, such as specific restrictions or policies regarding anonymous registration for certain domain extensions (TLDs). Maintaining Anonymity Maintaining anonymity when registering a domain name is crucial for protecting your personal information and preventing unwanted solicitations. Here are some tips to help you maintain anonymity: Use a VPN to mask your IP address and location. Use a secure email service that offers end-to-end encryption. Be cautious when sharing personal information online. Use a domain broker or a domain name marketplace to purchase a domain name anonymously. Consider using a proxy service to mask your personal information. By following these tips, you can ensure that your personal details remain confidential and your online presence is secure. Regulatory Considerations Compliance with ICANN Regulations ICANN regulations mandate that domain registrars collect and store accurate contact information for domain owners. This requirement ensures that the domain registration process remains transparent and accountable. However, ICANN also recognizes the need for privacy and allows for anonymous domain registration through the use of proxy services or private domain registration. To comply with ICANN regulations, domain registrars must: Collect and Store Accurate Contact Information: Registrars are required to gather and maintain up-to-date contact details for all domain owners. Provide Options for Anonymous Domain Registration: Registrars should offer services such as proxy registration or private domain registration to help domain owners protect their personal information. Educate Domain Owners on Risks: It is crucial for registrars to inform domain owners about the potential risks associated with public WHOIS data and the benefits of opting for anonymous registration. Offer Tools and Services for Privacy Protection: Registrars should provide tools and services that enable domain owners to safeguard their personal information and maintain privacy. By adhering to these guidelines, domain registrars can ensure compliance with ICANN regulations while offering robust privacy protection options for domain owners. This balance between transparency and privacy is essential for maintaining trust and security in the domain registration ecosystem. General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) Implications The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) has significant implications for domain registration and WHOIS data. Under the GDPR, personal data cannot be shown without consent. This means that domain registrars must obtain explicit consent from domain owners before publishing their personal data in the WHOIS database. If you’re a domain owner, you can request that your personal information be removed from the WHOIS database by contacting your domain registrar. This regulation helps protect your personal information and ensures that your privacy is maintained. Limitations and Considerations While anonymous domain registration offers numerous benefits, there are some limitations and considerations to keep in mind: Some domain extensions (TLDs) may have specific restrictions or policies regarding anonymous registration. Ensure that the domain registrar you choose has a reliable privacy protection service and a good reputation in the industry. Some domain registrars may require identification verification, but not all do. Anonymously registering a domain name may not be possible for all types of domains, such as country-code top-level domains (ccTLDs). Domain privacy protection services may not be available for all domain registrars, so it’s essential to check with your registrar before purchasing a domain name. By being aware of these limitations and considerations, you can make informed decisions when registering a domain name anonymously and ensure that your personal information remains protected.
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Domain Levels: A Comprehensive Guide to Top-Level Domains (TLDs) and Domain Names

In today’s digital landscape, domain names serve as the cornerstone of online identity. They are not just web addresses; they encapsulate your brand, convey professionalism, and influence user trust. Understanding the actual domain is crucial, as it helps in structuring sub-domains effectively without confusing web visitors. One of the most critical aspects of domain names is their structure within the domain name system and their organization in the dns hierarchy, including top-level domains (TLDs) and second level domain names as well as third level domain names. This guide will explore the various types of TLDs, their implications for your online presence, and how to choose the right URL for your business when you want to buy a premium domain name. What Are Top-Level Domains? Understanding TLDs A top-level domain (TLD) is the last segment of a domain name, appearing after the dot. Domain extensions, such as generic top-level domains (gTLDs) and country-code top-level domains (ccTLDs), play a crucial role in website visibility and branding. For example, in the domain name example.com, the TLD is .com. The second-level domain (SLD) is the component of a domain name located directly to the left of the TLD. This becomes essential for creating memorable and relevant domain names that enhance SEO by better describing website content. Third-level domains, or subdomains, exist to the left of second-level domains in a domain hierarchy and help in structuring website content, indicating different sections or language versions of a site. TLDs categorize domain levels and can significantly influence a website’s branding and marketing efforts. The Role of TLDs in the Domain Name System TLDs provide crucial information about the nature of the entity associated with a domain. The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) and the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA) regulate and allocate domain names, ensuring that assigned names adhere to specific regulations and maintain uniqueness within the domain name system for internet infrastructure purposes.   They help users understand the purpose of a website, whether it’s commercial, organizational, or country-specific. Choosing the right domain extensions can enhance brand recognition and trust. Types of Top-Level Domains (TLDs) Second level domain names referred to the target before the dot. Test.com is the second level domain with the keyword match–“test” in this example. Second level domain names can help consumers and individuals remember your brand. Top level domain names are generally categorized into several groups: .com: Originally designed for commercial entities, it is now the most widely used TLD and is often the first choice for businesses and private agencies. .org: Primarily used by non-profit organizations, this TLD conveys trust and community focus. .net: Initially intended for network providers, it has become a versatile option for various types of websites. .info: Designed for informational sites, this TLD is often used by resource-based websites. 2. Country Code Top-Level Domains (ccTLDs) Country-code top-level domain names are a specific type of domain extension designated for particular countries or regions, emphasizing their implications for search engine optimization and regional, country specific targeting. Country code tlds are the only top-level domain not governed by ICANN internet corporation for assigned names, differentiating them from other domain types and underscoring potential legal and usage restrictions based on geographic location. ccTLDs represent specific countries or territories. Examples include: .uk: United Kingdom .ca: Canada .de: Germany .au: Australia .ai: Anguilla .co: Columbia .io: Indian Ocean (british indian ocean territory) The .gov domain is a specific top-level domain (TLD) exclusively reserved for the American government and government agencies. There are similar restrictions applying to other domains like .EDU, which is limited to educational institutions in the U.S. Using a ccTLD can enhance local SEO, making your website more appealing to audiences in specific regions. SEO Consideration: If your business serves a local market, opting for a ccTLD can improve your search rankings and visibility within that area. 3. New Generic Top-Level Domains (New gTLDs) New generic top level domain names (generic tlds) have emerged to provide more specific options for niche markets. Some examples include: .tech: Ideal for technology companies and startups. .shop: Great for e-commerce businesses. .blog: Perfect for bloggers and content creators. .design: Suitable for design-focused websites. Additional examples of GTLD’s include: .LAW, .GO, .XYZ, .ART, .CLUB are some of the most recognized. These new generic top level domain names can provide unique branding opportunities but should align closely with your business’s mission and audience and be target generic top level domains. Ensure they reflect the content and purpose of your site, as this can influence user engage specific for your generic top level domain. SEO Consideration: While .com domains are the most popular, various gTLDs can also rank well if the site’s content is relevant and high-quality 4. Domains not controlled by DNS System Web3 domains are a new class of domain names designed for the decentralized web, often built on blockchain technology. Unlike traditional domains, which rely on centralized registrars and the DNS (Domain Name System). These are typically tied to the Blockchain system and not associated with standard ip addresses. Web3 domains offer unique features and benefits including, Decentralization, NFT Integration and Smart Contracts. Popular Web3 Domain Providers Ethereum Name Service (ENS) A decentralized naming system built on the Ethereum blockchain, allowing users to register human-readable domain names (e.g., example.eth). Unstoppable Domains Offers blockchain-based domains that can be used for websites, cryptocurrency payments, and decentralized identities. Handshake A decentralized, permission-less naming protocol that enables users to own their top-level domains. The Importance of Choosing the Right TLD Brand Identity and Trust The top level domain you choose can significantly impact your brand identity. Having your own domain is crucial as it allows you to create subdomains for various purposes and highlights the domain name as a vital element for website navigation and URL formation. A recognizable and trusted top level domain can boost your credibility among users. For example, a second level domain keyword-match URL ending in .com is often perceived as more legitimate than lesser-known extensions. SEO Impact While a top level domain is not a direct ranking factor, they can influence click-through rates and user engagement. Familiar top level domain names ending in .com or .org can improve trust, leading to higher conversion rates with these domain extensions. Local vs. Global Reach If your business targets a specific country or region, a ccTLD can enhance local SEO and attract a more relevant audience. Conversely, global businesses might opt for a top level domain to appeal to a broader market for widespread use. Best Practices for Selecting a TLD 1. Know Your Audience Understanding your target audience is crucial in selecting the right top level domain. If your primary customers are local, a ccTLD may be the best choice. If you aim for an international market, consider a popular gTLD or only top level domains. 2. Keep it Short and Memorable A shorter domain name is easier to remember and type. Avoid overly complex names and choose a TLD that complements your brand. Find the perfect domain name for your organization. 3. Avoid Hyphens and Numbers While it may be tempting to add hyphens or numbers to secure a domain, these can confuse users and reduce memorability. Stick to simple, clear names. The second level domain is critical for customer recall. 4. Check Availability Before settling on a domain name and TLD, check its availability. Many popular domain names may already be taken, so be prepared to explore variations. The Impact of TLDs on SEO User Perception Research indicates that users are more likely to trust and click on websites with a familiar top level domain. A well-known second level domain can enhance perceived credibility, leading to increased traffic for your companies success in their respective country. Local SEO Advantages For businesses focused on local markets, ccTLDs can improve local search rankings. The root domain, represented by a dot (.), is at the top of the DNS hierarchy and contains all the top-level domains (TLDs), organizing domain names into different levels. Search engines often prioritize local relevance, making ccTLDs a valuable asset for local businesses. Content Alignment While TLDs themselves don’t directly impact SEO rankings, aligning your TLD with your content can improve user experience. A TLD that reflects your content’s focus can lead to better engagement. Common Misconceptions About TLDs Misconception 1: TLDs Are the Primary Factor for SEO Success While TLDs play a role in user trust and engagement, they are not the main determinant of SEO success. High-quality content, backlinks, and technical SEO are far more critical. Misconception 2: All TLDs Have Equal Value Not all TLDs are created equal. The second level domain, which sits immediately to the left of the top-level domain, plays a critical role in defining the domain’s identity and is significant for branding and SEO purposes Misconception 3: New gTLD’s are cheaper alternatives Familiar TLDs like .com and .org often carry more weight in terms of trust and user recognition than obscure or new gTLDs. While new gTLD’s are typically cheaper, they do tend to hold a larger renewal cost and lack credibility and equity that .com domain names add to any brand. How to Register a Domain Name with Your Chosen TLD Step 1: Choose a Domain Name Brainstorm a potential web address that align with your brand and audience.The second level domain and dns hierarchy are good examples of properly choosing a domain name. A well-chosen web address can significantly impact user perception and SEO, making it crucial to select one that is effective and resonates with your target audience. Make sure to keep it short, memorable, and relevant, especially the second level domain. Step 2: Select Your TLD Decide on the most appropriate TLD based on your target audience and business goals. Second level domains are critical to top of mind awareness for your customer when finding the perfect domain. A third-level domain, also known as a sub-domain, can be used to organize different topics or language versions within your website while keeping the core domain name intact. Historically, third-level domains were significant for structuring website content, though they are less common in modern usage. Consider whether a gTLD or ccTLD best serves your needs. Fourth level domain levels involve rerouting the sub domains with a more specific field. Example: create.sub.agent.com. Step 3: Check Availability Use a domain registrar to check the availability of your chosen domain name with the desired TLD. Many registrars offer search tools to assist with this. Internet corporation for assigned names and numbers also offers a search tool to check Whois information. Second level domains also become synonymous with your brand image and perception. Step 4: Register Your Domain Once you’ve found an available domain name, proceed with registration through a reputable domain registrar. Be prepared to provide necessary contact information and payment details. Step 5: Set Up Domain Privacy Consider enabling domain privacy protection to safeguard your personal information from public databases. Top Registrars for Domain Names and TLDs Choosing a reliable domain registrar is crucial for managing your domain name effectively. Here are some top registrars to consider: GoDaddy: One of the largest and most popular registrars, offering a wide variety of TLDs and excellent customer service. Namecheap: Known for its affordability and user-friendly interface, making it an excellent choice for new domain owners. Bluehost: Offers free domain registration with hosting plans, ideal for beginners. Google Domains: A straightforward option that integrates seamlessly with Google services.Here is a list of the top-10 registries by total tld count: Conclusion Understanding top-level domains (TLDs) and their significance in domain names is vital for establishing a strong online presence. By selecting the right TLD that aligns with your brand and audience, you can enhance your credibility, improve SEO, and attract more visitors to your site. Whether you choose a traditional TLD, a country code TLD, or a new tlds, ensure it reflects your business’s identity and goals. By following the guidelines outlined in this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-equipped to make informed decisions about your domain names and TLDs, setting the stage for online success in search results.
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What Is A Domain Name and Why Do I Need One?

People often come to us when they are just getting started in their business and ask us, “what is a domain name and why do I need one?” If you’re a beginner when it comes to domain names, don’t worry. You’re not alone. You might be confusing domain names with website or even website hosting service, and we’re here to help. In this overview, we’ll answer all your questions about what is a domain name, how it works, and why you need one. Hopefully we’ll give you tips you need to choose the right domain for your business. An Overview To What Is A Domain Name To put it simply, a domain name is the address of your website. It is the phrase or word that you will type into your URL bar of your browser to find your website. For example, our website is https://nameexperts.com/. You can purchase domain names through a domain registrar, through a hosting provider, or let a domain name broker help you. What is the DNS? In answering the question, what is a domain name, we thought we should also address the DNS. Domain names are part of a large network called the Domain Name System (DNS) and it is managed by the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN). The ICANN is a non-profit organization responsible for management and maintenance of the DNS, as well as regulating domain registrars. How Does the DNS Work? Here’s how it works, as simply as possible. When you type a domain name into your browser, your computer will check if you’ve previously looked at that domain. If not, then your browser will contact the local DNS server to pull it up. Your local DNS server breaks down the domain name into sections. We’ll use our name again as an example. There are three parts to nameexperts.com – www., nameexperts, and .com. The .com is known as a top level domain (TLD) and the local DNS server will search for this section first, and then additional serves to find all the details of your domain name and send that information back to the browser you’re using. There are obviously a lot more technical steps that go along with that, but that’s the basics of how the DNS works. Let’s talk more about what you really need to know – what types of domain name extensions are available. Different Types of Domain Name Extensions As we discussed above, all domain names are made up of a website name (nameexperts), and a top level domain (.com). Though the extensions can vary, we think it is useful to know the differences between the types of top-level domains available so that when it’s time to choose your domain name, you choose the right one. The two types we are going to talk about today are Generic Top-Level Domains (gTLDs) and Sponsored Top-Level Domains (sTLDs). Generic Top-Level Domains (gTLDs) Normally the best course of action is to choose a reputable TLD like .com, .net, or .org. But because these are so popular, there are millions of domain names that have been registered to date, the name you want might be taken or just hard to find a name that works. There are different and lesser known TLDs. Here are some of the most generic: .com (commercial) .info (information) .org (organizational) .net (network) .biz (business) Sponsored Top-Level Domains (rTLDs) In addition to gTLDs, there are also some top level domains that are sponsored by organizations or agencies for very specific and often exclusive use. Here are some examples you’ll recognize: .gov (used by the US government) .edu (used by educational institutions) .int (used by international organizations) .mil (limited to US military entities only) Subdomains We thought we should also mention subdomains. A subdomain is also known as a third level domain and is an extra part of a domain name. They are viewed as separate websites by the search engines, so creating subdomains can help improve your sites SEO. Specifically, a good time to use a subdomain is for a blog. It might look like https://blog.nameexperts.com. How To Choose The Right Domain Name Now that we’ve answered what is a domain name, we want to help you choose the right domain name that accurately reflects your business. You want to be easy for your target market to remember and be something that is timeless. Your domain name broker can help you find the perfect domain name and get you started with the process that goes along with it. Start by doing some research on keywords that are relevant for your business. Whether it’s the name of your business or another keyword that relates to your business and you want to rank for, this type of domain name will help improve your site’s SEO. Another tip is to keep your domain short and memorable. You want it to stand out but be easy to remember – try to keep it three words or less. You also want to make sure you avoid numbers and hyphens. People won’t remember where they go and they might mistype. Which leads us into another tip for choosing your domain name, make sure it is easy to spell. Shy away from words with multiple spells or might be difficult to pronounce. Think long term, you want a domain name that supports the growth of your business and will last for years to come. Changing your domain name later can really hurt your business. Let Us Help Getting your domain name right is really crucial for your business or organization. It can help define your brand and be the thing that makes a lasting impression on your audience. Do your research, and let the experts at Name Experts help you find the perfect domain name to fit your needs. We can help you find the right name for your business, and even help you buy and register a name, even if it already belongs to someone else. Give us a call today and let us help you with the domain acquisition process. From start to finish, we will walk you through the steps and make sure you get all your questions answered.

Why Work with Name Experts

Name Experts offers personalized domain brokerage services, assisting clients in buying or selling premium domain names with expert appraisal, negotiation, and complete transaction management while ensuring confidentiality.

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