This struggle is one of the biggest challenges for some especially when the names are taken and we cannot even use the names we really love to use. Many other times we are confused about which extension to choose whether .com or a .org.
First, what is a domain name?
A domain name is your website name. A domain name is an address where Internet users can access your website. A domain name is used for finding and identifying computers on the Internet.
A domain name can be any combination of letters and numbers, and it can be used in combination with the various domain name extensions, such as .com, .net, and more.
The domain name must be registered before you can use it!
This is very important because once you put your domain name out there without registration someone else can still claim it! For Nigerians, you can register your business name with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) that is if your domain name is going to be your business name going forward. Every domain name is unique. No two websites can have the same domain name. If someone types in www.yourdomain.com, it will go to your website and no one else’s. So basically when you type “www.” on the browser, the next letters have to be your domain name. Got it?
Now how do you know the right domain name to pick?
This is based on many factors, let’s just talk about a few here
- Your business name: Let’s say your business name is DECTACLE COMPANY. Your domain name is likely going to be www.dectaclecompany.com.
- Your Subject matter: This is valid when you have a topic to talk about or you have a project you want to make public. for instance, you just started a child advocacy project. The name you have chosen for this project can be your domain name not necessarily have to be your business name.
Why you need a Domain Name?
On the Internet, your domain name is your unique identity. Any individual, business, or organization planning to have an online presence should invest in a domain name. There are many hosting companies where you can buy a domain name. Google is your friend in finding these companies and they can be as cheap as $1
Having your own domain name, website and email addresses will give you and your business a more professional look.
Another reason for a business to register a domain name is to protect copyrights and trademarks, build creditability, increase brand awareness, and search engine positioning.
So why waste any more time?? register a domain name for that business!
Which Domain extension is good for your business?
This can be a bit tasking as to which of the extensions should you use and why you can’t use some. as you already know that .com is the most common on the internet today. I would tell you what these extensions stand for right away. 😊
- .com – Commercial > Business / eCommerce.
- .org – Organisations > Non-profits / Forums / Resources / Churches
- .net – Network > Internet Provider / Services / Technology.
- .co – Colombia Country Code TLD / Company / Corporation.
- .us – United States Country Code TLD.
- .ng – Nigerian Organisation TLD
- .gov – Government Parastatals special domains / Corporations.
PS: TLD stands for Top Level Domain
Who says you cannot combine these domains like having .com.ng, .com.net, .org.ng, .co.uk. These are used on special situations or occasions when your domain is taken and you still want to use that name anyways. for instance, after chacking the Whois database you discover that yourcompanyname.com has been taken, you can still purchase yourcompanyname.com.ng.
The Whois is also a tool that searches the domain name information contained in WHOIS databases. It is generally used to check the availability or ownership of a domain name.
Anyway, other options are also available, such as:
- .info – it stands for information
- .store – a great one for eCommerce sellers; your audience knows who you are right away
- .online – did you know that the word ‘online’ is understood in over 24 languages? Perfect to build a universal brand
- .tech – the short for technology is perfect for you to showcase your tech brand or highlight what you love about tech
- .website – 14th largest new domain extension. Great for startups, companies, blogs, and personal profiles.
There are many factors that you should take into account when choosing a domain name for your website or business. It must perfectly reflect your business brand and unique identity. Domain name extensions are important when it comes to showing your business nature and increasing your chances with Google search results and SEO.
Now that you know what a domain is and how you can use its extension rightly. Go ahead and get your website designed and make it easier for your clients to find you! Let me know in the comment section what your thoughts are and how we can help
