Unlocking The Mystery of Domains: How to Purchase a Domain, Part 2 of 2

Hi! CJ here.

Today in episode 12, we’re going to be unveiling the mysteries of what a domain registrar is, and how to purchase a domain.

Like I mentioned in part one, you don’t have to master everything there is to know about domains. Simply knowing the basics will do for most people. Plus, we are right here to help you through the process. Just leave a comment below and we’ll be glad to answer your questions or concerns.

What is a domain registrar?

Think of a domain registrar as similar to a post office for the internet. It performs address management, registration services, accreditation, renewals and updates and other additional services.

Address Management: Just as a post office helps manage physical addresses for mail delivery, a domain registrar manages internet addresses (domain names) for websites.

Registration Services: Just as you would go to a post office to register for a P.O. Box or to send mail, you visit a domain registrar to register a domain name for your website.

Accreditation: Domain registrars are accredited by organizations like ICANN, similar to how post offices are authorized by national postal services.

Renewals and Updates: Just as you might need to renew your P.O. Box or update your address with the post office, domain registrars handle renewals of domain names and allow you to update the registration details of your domain.

Additional Services: Much like how a post office offers services beyond just sending mail, domain registrars may offer additional services like DNS management, email hosting, and website hosting.

There are a number of registrars to choose from: GoDaddy, bluehost, Network Solutions, Squarespace, Ionos and Domain.com to name a few. SJ and I have used several over the years. Currently, we buy most of our domains through domain.com which I recommend. They are reasonably priced and have great customer service. However, you can choose whichever one that suits you best.

So, in essence, a domain registrar serves as the intermediary that enables individuals and businesses to establish and maintain their presence on the internet, much like a post office facilitates communication through physical mail.

How to Purchase a Domain Name?

Purchasing a domain name is a straightforward process, especially if you follow the suggestions from part 1. Here is a quick list of things to help you navigate the waters.

Choose a Domain Registrar: Select a domain registrar where you’ll purchase your domain name. As stated above SJ and I use Domain.com and are very happy with their customer service, but you can use any of the ones that are out there.

Check Domain Availability: Use the registrar’s search tool to check if your desired domain name is available. If it’s taken, the registrar will suggest alternatives or variations.

Select Your Domain: Once you find an available domain name you like, proceed to add it to your cart. Before choosing your domain name refer back to part 1 and review the suggestions for picking a domain name.

Choose Registration Period: Decide how long you want to register the domain for. Typically, you can register a domain for one year, though some registrars will automatically add it to the cart as a two-year registration. I personally recommend doing it for one year to start with, so make sure this is the option chosen when you look at your cart. During that first year, people will often change their minds and want a different domain name. If you only paid for a year, then you’re only out a small amount. However, if you decide to keep it past one year, I suggest renewing it for a longer period of time.

Provide Contact Information: You’ll need to provide contact information like your name, address, email, and phone number. Make sure this information is accurate because it’s used for domain registration.

Choose Add-ons (Optional): Registrars often offer additional services like privacy protection (to hide your contact information from WHOIS searches), email hosting, website builders, and more. Though you can add on these additional features, starting out I would just add the bare minimum, you can always come back later and add them on if they are needed.

Review Your Order: Before making the payment, review your order to ensure everything is correct, including the domain name, registration period, and any add-ons. I recommend checking it a couple times before finalizing the order. Registrars do not usually give refunds for mistakes.

Complete the Purchase: Proceed to checkout and follow the instructions to make your payment. Most registrars accept credit/debit cards, PayPal, and other payment methods.

Verify Ownership: After completing the purchase, you’ll receive an email confirming your purchase and providing instructions on how to verify your ownership of the domain. Follow these instructions promptly.

Start Using Your Domain: Once everything is set up, your domain is ready to use! You can set up email addresses, build a website, or redirect it to an existing website if you wish.

Customer Service: Make full use of your registrar’s help desk. They are an invaluable asset when it comes to purchasing and setting up your domain. In fact, it is one of the things I like most about Domain.com. Their help has gotten SJ and I through a few bumps here and there.

That’s it! You’ve successfully purchased a domain name. Remember to renew your domain before it expires to prevent losing it. Most registrars offer auto-renewal options to make this process easier.

Check out the video SJ put together as she purchases a domain name. Remember, each registrar’s website will vary some in how the purchase process is laid out. However, they will have all the elements listed in this post.

Happy Shopping!!

Don’t forget we are here to help. Just leave a comment below and we’ll answer your questions.

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Till next time my friend,

This is CJ signing off.