A domain name is the unique web address that you type in a browser to visit a website such as example.com. It acts as a human-friendly alternative to IP addresses, making it easier to access websites without memorizing long sequences of numbers. A domain name consists of two parts: the name (e.g., "example") and the extension (e.g., ".com").
When you enter a domain name in a browser, the Domain Name System (DNS) translates it into the corresponding IP address, directing the browser to the correct web hosting server. This process allows you to access websites with ease.
Domain name structure
A domain name consists of three main components based on its structure: the top-level domain, second-level domain, and third-level domain or subdomain.
- Top-Level Domain (TLD): The extension at the end of a domain, such as .com, .org, .net, or country-specific ones like .de (Germany) or .uk (United Kingdom), which are ideal for businesses and organizations aiming to target local markets.
.com: Originally intended for commercial websites, .com is now the most widely used TLD.
.net: A solid alternative to .com, this TLD is ideal for businesses in any field.
.org: Unlike .com and .net, .org is primarily used by non-profit organizations, making it the second most popular TLD after .com.
Note:
Some ccTLDs come with geographical restrictions. For instance, only permanent residents and foreign companies with a legitimate presence in the US are eligible to register a .us domain.
- Second-Level Domain (SLD): The unique name of the website, like wordpress in wordpress.org. The SLD is the customizable part of the domain and is often the most memorable. To strengthen branding, businesses should consider using their brand name as the SLD.
- Third-Level Domain (Subdomain): A third-level domain, commonly known as a subdomain, is the part that appears before the main domain. An optional prefix, such as www or blog, creating variations like blog.example.com. For instance, the "www" in most URLs is technically a subdomain, indicating that the website is part of the World Wide Web.
Note:
The "www" prefix is no longer necessary. Most websites work fine without it, often redirecting to the main domain (e.g., example.com) for simplicity.
How to get a domain name
Before registering your website’s domain, it's important to choose a name that’s unique, easy to remember, and stands out. Here are some tips to guide you:
- Choose a Domain Name :
- Keep it concise: Opt for a short, simple domain name that’s easy for users to recall and type, minimizing the risk of misspelling.
- Avoid numbers: Numbers, like “0” and “O,” can cause confusion, so it's best to steer clear of them.
- Incorporate keywords: If your brand is still growing, using relevant keywords in your domain name can help clarify what your site is about.
- Plan for the future: Choose a domain that can grow with your business and reflect its potential expansion down the road.
- Check availability: You can use the 10Web domain registrar or any third-party domain registrar to check if your desired domain is available.
- Register it: Once you've found an available domain name, purchase it and remember to renew it regularly to maintain ownership.
How to purchase your domain via 10Web dashboard
If you’re looking to get a domain for your website through 10Web, the process is straightforward and easy to follow:
- Access Domain Management: In the top bar of your 10Web Dashboard, click on the My Products menu.
- Navigate to the Domains section: Under My Products, select the Domains submenu to access domain-related services.
- Search for your domain: You’ll be taken to the Get a New Domain section by default. Use the search bar to find your preferred domain name.
- Select your domain: Once you find the domain you want to get, click on the Get it button to proceed.
- Checkout process: On the checkout page, confirm or enter your billing information, select your preferred payment method, and complete your purchase.
- Secure checkout: Finish your domain purchase by completing the secure checkout process.
Note:
You can also obtain a domain by clicking on the Get Free Custom Domain button, located above the page near the My Products menu.
Note:
The following domain extensions are currently unavailable to purchase via 10Web; .us - .au - .com.au - .nyc - .eu - .es
Important:
If you adjust your billing details on the checkout page, these changes will apply to your entire 10Web account, affecting all products and services linked to it.
After successful payment, your domain will be listed under the Domains Portfolio section of the 10Web Dashboard. From here, you can manage various settings, such as domain privacy, DNS configuration, contact information, renewal settings, and other options. You’ll have full control over your domain and its settings, ensuring that you can make any necessary adjustments to keep your domain running smoothly.