What is a Domain Name

This post was originally created for the now discountinued ebusiness Connection website (e-bc.ca) orginal publish year 2006.

A domain name is a unique alpha-numeric address used to identify and locate a specific computer on the internet. They allow users to type in a name that is easy to remember, such as smallbusinessbc.ca which is then translated into the Domain Name System (DNS) as a numerical address (Internet Protocol Numbers) such as 69.90.63.128. DNS allows you to access a website without having to remember the numerical address.

What is a domain name extension

A domain name extension is what appears after the domain name, ex: www.smallbusinessbc.ca — .ca is the extension. Choosing your extension is just as important as deciding on a domain name, the extension lets users know what type of website they are visiting, is it a Canadian business or an Organization? There are many extensions available.

Where can I register my domain name and what is the cost

You can register a domain name online with a domain name registrar.  For a list of registration authorities, visit the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) at www.icann.org/registrars/accredited-list.html

If registering a .CA domain name, you can have 2 to 50 characters in length. If registering a .COM, .NET, .ORG domain name, you can have 1 to 67 characters. Letters and numbers with hyphens in between are acceptable.

The cost to register a domain name depends on which company you decided to go with, on average it will cost about $10 - $30 for a one year subscription. It is suggested that you register your domain name for 3-5 years to ensure you maintain the name and the registration cost is less expensive over a longer period of time.

You can call your registrar or log on to their website to re-register and pay.

More info:

• Choosing and registering an effective domain name

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