A domain name is the web address people use to access a website on the internet. It is the easy-to-remember name that points visitors to your website's server.
For example, instead of typing a long numerical address called an IP address, users can simply enter a domain name such as:
example.com
Domain names make it much easier for people to find and remember websites.
What a Domain Name Does
A domain name acts as the address of your website. When someone enters your domain name into a web browser, it directs them to the server where your website files are stored.
Without domain names, users would need to remember complicated IP addresses such as:
192.0.2.1
Domain names translate these numbers into readable names.
Parts of a Domain Name
A typical domain name has two main parts.
Example:
example.com
Domain Name (Second-Level Domain)
This is the main name of the website.
example
Domain Extension (Top-Level Domain)
This is the ending of the domain name.
.com
Common domain extensions include:
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.com
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.net
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.org
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.info
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.biz
There are also many newer domain extensions available today.
How Domain Names Work
Domain names work through a system called DNS (Domain Name System).
The process works like this:
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A visitor types your domain name into their web browser.
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The browser asks the DNS system where the domain is located.
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DNS translates the domain name into the server's IP address.
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The browser connects to that server.
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The server sends the website files to the visitor's browser.
The visitor then sees your website.
This entire process usually happens in just a few seconds.
Domain Names and Web Hosting
A domain name and web hosting are two different services, but they work together.
Domain Name
The address people type into their browser.
Web Hosting
The server where your website files are stored.
When your domain name is connected to your hosting account, visitors who enter your domain will see your website.
Domain Registration
Domain names must be registered through a domain registrar.
When you register a domain name:
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You reserve the domain so no one else can use it.
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You typically pay a yearly registration fee.
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You gain control over the domain settings.
Most domains can be registered for 1 to 10 years at a time.
DNS and Domain Settings
Domain names use DNS records to connect to services such as:
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Websites
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Email servers
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Subdomains
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Third-party services
DNS records tell the internet where your domain should point.
Common DNS records include:
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A Record – Connects a domain to a server IP address
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MX Record – Directs email to the correct mail server
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CNAME Record – Points one domain to another domain
These settings are typically managed in your hosting control panel or domain registrar dashboard.
Tips When Choosing a Domain Name
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Keep it short and easy to remember
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Avoid complicated spelling
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Use a relevant keyword or brand name
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Choose the right domain extension
A good domain name helps people easily find and remember your website.
Summary
A domain name is the address of your website on the internet. It works by connecting your website's hosting server to a readable web address through the DNS system.
By registering and configuring a domain name, you allow visitors to easily access your website online.
If you need assistance registering or managing a domain name, please contact our support team and we will be happy to help.
