Domain Name Parking

Just as the name implies, domain name parking refers to the practice of reserving a domain, or alphabet equivalent of a numeric Internet Protocol (IP) address on the Internet, which is not currently tied to an existing email or website. By parking or registering the name with an Internet Service Provider (ISP), cyberspace is set aside for future use. Internet businesses frequently use domain parking services to post a single page site with a message indicating that the site is either under construction or soon to come. Companies and individuals reserve virtual space, or real estate, on the Internet for a small annual fee much the same way as someone would sign a lease for an apartment to be physically occupied at a later date. Once registered, an address is proprietary, and as such, cannot be used by another entity. We recognize the domain as part of the Uniform Resource Locator or URL. For example, in the URL http://www.company.com, the domain name is www.company.com. 

The popularity of the worldwide web has changed the way small and large businesses operate. In order for businesses to compete in today's marketplace, a web presence is crucial. Website advertising is one of the most vital promotional tools for any entrepreneur who wants to reach a local, regional, national, or global market. No longer can small or large corporations rely on walk-in or local traffic, but there must be an effort to reach a worldwide audience, one that is ready, willing and able to make electronic purchases of valuable goods and services, for greater profitability. Cyberspace is a virtual place where individuals and businesses can rent, lease, or simply reserve a specific location on the worldwide web from domain parking services. Reserved sites can be either monetized or non-monetized. Monetized sites are those that have potential to generate income, while non-monetized sites do not necessarily produce revenue. 

Domain name parking helps companies begin the process of creating a web presence and driving global consumers to new sites. And just as automobile drivers pay for leaving a vehicle, so do registrants pay not only to use a distinct address, but also to reserve it for a specific amount of time. While a URL represents the unique identity and location of an internet advertiser, there is one individual whose identity is more unique and powerful than any in the entire universe. "Wherefore God also hath highly exalted Him, and given Him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven and things in earth, and things under the earth And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father" (Philippians 2:9-11).

There are several different advantages to using domain name parking. Registrants can create an immediate web presence prior to launching a site. Parking affords an opportunity to build brand recognition. A monetized parked domain can be used to advertise links to a targeted audience. Newly registered sites can be used to bookmark, or hold a place, and redirect visitors to existing sites. Once businesses register a unique IP or web address, a provider service reserves the cyberspace and posts either a monetized page featuring advertisements, or a non-monetized page notifying visitors that the site is still under construction. Registration will prevent others from using the same URL while a registrant constructs the site. But while the site is being built, visitors may get a sneak preview by doing a keyword search relevant to the URL. Typing the Uniform Resource Locator, or web address, into a search engine displays a monetized page with a relatively static layout featuring advertisements which domain parking services have sold to other advertisers. The non-monetized page directs visitors to the site where they will find a message that the site is under construction. Most registrants will launch a dummy website with an impressive home page, basically just for looks, and other pages marked "under construction." To encourage repeat traffic, registrants can include informative links to other existing sites that are helpful to visitors and give them an incentive to come back once construction is completed. 

Domain name parking is also used as a great advertising tool to direct browsers to several active pages. Once a visitor types keywords into a search engine, a non-specific parked domain appears on the screen with links to a dozen or more related sites. Service providers use these kinds of sites as Internet billboards or classified ad pages to drive visitors via links to the websites of paying Internet advertisers. For instance, if an Internet browser is doing an online search for aluminum outdoor furniture, several links to entities specializing in aluminum outdoor furniture will appear on a page. Browsers can choose to click on any of the links to find more information on a target-specific product. Because domain parking services retain ownership and simply lease space to Internet advertisers, owning a monetized site can be a lucrative venture for both the service provider and the advertiser.

Internet advertisers seeking to locate parking services can do an online search. The first step in reserving cyberspace is to apply and pay for a domain, which can be registered free of charge or for a minimal monthly fee. The cost of hosting or parking is also either free or charged monthly, depending on the package registrants choose to purchase. Web hosting services conduct a search to ensure that no other entity is using the same address. Internet advertisers should park the new URL as soon as possible to reserve the space while constructing their website. Domain name parking will provide a temporary web presence, incentives to visit the site, and generate potential revenue for advertisers, parking services, and new registrants.