Domain names are the website equivalent of the physical address. It’s like the directional sign that guides visitors to your site online. Let’s look at the key points:
- Definition: a domain name is a unique website address that users type into their browser to access a specific website. It is the friendly, human-readable part of the internet.
- Structure: A domain name consists of two basic elements:
- Site name: This is the easily remembered part, like “google” in “google.com”.
- Domain Name Extension: also known as Top-Level Domain (TLD), it follows the name of the website. Examples include “.com”, “.org” or “.net”.
- Functionality: When users enter a domain name (e.g. “example.com”) into their browser, a global network of Domain Name System (DNS) servers translates it into an IP address. This IP address points to the specific server hosting the website.
- Website hosting: A domain name and a hosting server work together. The server stores website data, including files, databases and HTML code
Why get a Domain Name?
- Ease of memorization: imagine having to remember an IP address (a string of random numbers) instead of a domain name. Domains make websites accessible.
- Strengthening Branding: a well-chosen domain enhances the identity of your project or business.
What are the Types of Domain Names
- TLD (Top-Level Domain):Examples: “.com”, “.org”, “.net”. Widely used and recognisable. “.com” covers 46.5% of the internet.
- ccTLD (Country-Code Top-Level Domain): uses country codes (e.g. “.us” for the United States, “.uk” for the United Kingdom). Indicates geographical areas.
- gTLD (Generic Top-Level Domain): includes newer extensions such as “.blog”, “.app” and “.guru”.
Contact us if you have any questions or want to register a domain name Remember, your domain name is more than just an address – it is your online identity!