A domain name is the address people use to reach a website. Registration, web hosting and email hosting may be separate services.
Before registering
- Check that the spelling is clear and does not infringe another organisation’s identity.
- Compare renewal and transfer costs as well as the introductory price.
- Confirm who will be the registrant and who controls the account.
- Check the expiry date, renewal arrangements and recovery process.
Keep control of your address
ICANN explains the roles of registrants, registrars and registries. If a designer manages the domain for you, document where it is registered and ensure you can regain control. Protect the account with strong authentication and keep recovery information current.
A low registration price does not tell you the cost of a complete website. See the hosting checklist before choosing a package.