The Process of Internet Domain Registration

The process of Internet domain registration is surprisingly easy. All it takes to register one or more domain names is an internet connection. Boiled down to the simplest terms, one needs to select a domain registrar, choose a domain name, enter the required registration information, and provide payment, as required by the registrar. Of course, lack of knowledge of the basic terminology or about how the process of Internet domain registration is managed can make it seem anything but simple. In fact, it can be intimidating. Not everyone has enough working knowledge of the terms to feel comfortable. If you do not think you have the full concept, this article may be helpful.

Domain means the Internet website itself. The domain name is the address that allows people to access the site. A website that has been accredited as a domain registrar will manage your Internet domain registration, collecting the necessary information, sending it to a central directory, and maintaining your registration records. You have a broad choice of sites which function as domain registrars. Some, called Web hosts, will also assist you with creating and managing your website once you have completed your Internet domain registration. If you do not have a strong technical background, filing your Internet domain registration through a Web hosting site may be the answer.

Sometimes the part of the Internet domain registration that seems the easiest, like creating your domain name, may be the more difficult than expected. The Internet domain name has a defined layout and must be one of a kind. Following the standard www the domain name consists of a name, then what is known as an extension. The most common extension is .com, but there are several others available. An example might be www.myownwebsite.com. The name should be reflective of the website it will represent. The combination of the name and extension cannot be registered by anyone else. The Internet has a governing body, ICANN, which ensures each domain name is unique, and that the required information is collected during the Internet domain registration. Access to the information stored from the Internet domain registration process is available on the InterNIC website. The registry itself is WHOIS.

Fortunately, most Internet domain registrars provide a search to determine availability of the name you want. The search will tell you it is available or offer suggestions. You can also continue to search until you find one that is just right. Now you are on your way. Fill out the required information and file. Done! You have completed your Internet domain registration and the registrar will notify you by email when it is available.