What Is A Domain Name And Why Do I Need One?

Ok you’re first step on How To Create A Website I recommend you read this entire section before selecting your domain name. This section provides some great tips that most website don’t, it is very important you choose the right domain for your long term strategy.

Note: If you already know about domain names and feel confident in selecting the right one please skip this section and go straight to Register Your Domain Name or if you’re looking for tips on choosing a domain name click here.

So here we go…

Explain what is a domain name?

A domain name is an address for your website, much like a street address for your home.
People surfing the internet use this address (domain name) to find your website or your company online, people type your domain name into the box as shown below to get to your website: -

: Google Domain Name example

For example our domain name is http://www.howtowebsite.co.uk the ‘howtowebsite.co.uk’ part of the address shown above is the domain name.

You don’t have to worry about the http://, in todays browsers (a browser is the a piece of software you use to surf the internet – typically this is Internet Explorer) it is not necessary to type this in to successfully reach the desired website.

However here is a bit of background on what http:// means. Http:// stands for Hypertext Transfer Protocol; this is a method of transferring data between a web server (what is a web host / server?) and a web browser, this then formats the files into Web pages, and displays them to the user, hence the webpage you are viewing right now.

Why do I need a domain name?

1. A domain name provides easy access for other people to get to your website.

2. You can sell it for a profit later if it increases in value – see ‘The Most Expensive Domains Ever’.

3. Much prettier solution than other services; wouldn’t you rather have www.your-domain.co.uk than
http://www.free-domains-for-you.co.uk/your-domain - the first example is a lot easier to remember and tell people.

4. Comes across a lot more professional. This shows you have made an investment in the long term success of your company and its online branding.