A domain name is the address that people enter in their browser's search bar in order to reach your site. It's essentially your online street address, directing individuals to your website. Just like an actual physical address, a domain name is unique and can be registered with a domain registrar, with some services even providing free domain registration in their hosting plans.

In other words, when a visitor enters your domain name (for example, www.yourbusiness.com), it takes them straight to your site. Without a domain name, your site would be less accessible since people would have to enter it via an IP address, which is less user-friendly.

A domain name usually consists of two parts: the name itself (like "yourbusiness") and the extension (like ".com," ".org," or ".net"). This extension is called a top-level domain (TLD), and it helps categorize websites based on their purpose or location. It’s important to choose a domain name that’s memorable, easy to spell, and relevant to your brand or business.

How domain names work

A domain name works as a human-readable identifier that points to your website’s unique IP address on the internet. Without it, visitors would have to type a long string of numbers instead of a simple, memorable web address. Here’s how it works:

1. Domain registration: You register a domain name through a domain provider or domain registrar. The domain purchase process usually involves choosing your desired web address, selecting an extension, and completing payment.
2. DNS system: The Domain Name System (DNS) maps your domain name to the server hosting your website. This ensures users are directed to your content.
3. Name servers: These are the servers responsible for translating your domain name into an IP address, allowing browsers to find your site.

Choosing the right domain name for your business is crucial for branding, credibility, and ensuring potential customers can easily find you online.

Benefits of using domain names

Using domain names offers several benefits:

• Brand identity – Helps establish and reinforce a brand's identity online.
• User-friendly – Provides an easy-to-remember address for accessing websites.
• SEO – Can improve search engine rankings by including relevant keywords in the domain name.
• Trust and credibility – A professional domain name can enhance trust and credibility with users.

Examples of domain names

1. Example 1: Google
   Google’s domain name is simple and easy to remember: "google.com." It's a recognizable, branded name that makes sense for their business.
2. Example 2: Etsy
   Etsy’s domain name, "etsy.com," is concise and unique, which makes it easy for users to recall and visit.

How to choose a domain name for your website

Here are some tips for selecting the perfect domain name for your business:

1. Keep it short and simple: Shorter names are easier to remember and type.
2. Make it brandable: Choose a name that aligns with your business or brand's online identity.
3. Avoid using numbers or hyphens: These can confuse users and make your desired domain name harder to remember.
4. Choose the right extension: If possible, choose a .com extension as it's the most recognized and trusted. But if you’re a nonprofit or a local organization, consider using .org or a country-specific extension like .us (for the United States). You can also opt for .net domains, which is suitable for tech-focused businesses or network-based services.
5. Check domain availability: Before you get too attached to a name, make sure it’s available to register. You can use a domain name search tool to quickly see if your preferred name is taken and explore alternative options.

FAQs about domain names

Why is a domain name important?

A website domain name is essential for your website’s visibility and branding. It’s how people find your site and it adds credibility to your business. Without a domain name, your website wouldn’t be easy to find, and you could lose potential customers.

How much does a domain name cost?

The price of a domain name can vary, but most domain names typically cost between $10 to $50 per year. Premium domain names or more popular names may cost more.

Can I change my domain name later?

While it’s possible to change your domain name later, it can be tricky and may hurt your SEO rankings. It’s best to pick a domain name you’re happy with early on.

What are domain name extensions?

Domain extensions are the suffixes that appear after the dot in a domain name, like .com, .net, .org, or .io. The extension you choose can help reflect your business or the purpose of your website.

How do I register a domain name?

You can register a domain name through domain registrars like GoDaddy, Namecheap, or Google Domains. After the domain name registration, you’ll own the rights to that domain name as long as you keep renewing it.

Can I use a free domain name?

Some website builders offer free subdomains (e.g., yourbusiness.b12.com). However, it’s better to invest in a custom domain name for a more professional appearance and better brand recognition.

Launch your website with a custom domain using B12

With B12’s AI-powered website builder, you can get started with your own domain name and build a stunning site quickly. Our platform will help you find the perfect domain name for your business, and we’ll handle all the technical details. Draft your professional website today!