What is a Domain Name,
and How do I Get One?

A Domain Name is the unique name that identifies an Internet site. Domain Names always have two or more parts, separated by dots. The part on the left is the most specific and the part on the right is the most general. For example, turningleafstudio.com is a Domain Name.

If you want to get a Domain Name, you can go to one of many websites that allow you to type in your desired name and check to see if it's taken before committing payment. It's important that you carefully consider your Domain Name choices because you will be using it anywhere you want to market yourself. Pay attention to the way your choice sounds when you say it, what it looks like when you write it out. Is it a memorable name? Does it sound like another (competitor's) name? If people inadvertantly misspell your Domain Name, will they end up at your competitor's site?

Domain Names can be registered at a number of websites and can be done by either the web designer, your ISP or yourself. If you or your web designer do the registration, you will need to request technical information from your ISP, so it's always best to have selected an ISP prior to registering a Domain Name.

To search for or register a Domain Name, go to either Register.com (www.register.com) or Network Solutions (www.networksolutions.com).

Call or email me if you have any questions about this :)