Domain Names

Frequently asked questions about domain names

• What is a domain name?

  A domain name is the electronic address that you type into your computer in order to access a website. Every domain name consists of two primary components. The first part is the chosen name, which often represents a brand, business, or individual. The second part is the extension, also known as the top-level domain (TLD). For example, our domain name is names.co.uk, where names is our chosen identifier and .co.uk is the extension. This structure allows for a vast array of unique domain names.

• Why do I need a domain name?

  In order for your potential customers to find you on the Internet, you’ll need a domain name. Having one is a fundamental requirement for anyone looking to establish themselves online. Registering your domain name also offers a layer of protection for your brand. If you have a registered business, securing the corresponding domain name prevents others from purchasing it and potentially misusing your brand identity. In essence, your domain name acts as the cornerstone of your online presence.

• How to choose a domain name

  Your domain name should describe your business or the services you offer. If you only operate within a specific region then consider incorporating that within the domain name as well. Try not to make the domain name too long though. The key is for it to be easy for your customers to remember and type. Plus, if it’s going to be printed on your business card or on the side of your van, then keeping it short and straight to the point is the best tactic.

• How to buy a domain name

  Type the name you’d like for your website into our search bar and click “Search domains”. If the one you requested is available, you’ll see it appear at the top of the search results. If it’s not available, we’ll display some suggested alternatives for you to consider. Or you could search again for another domain name if you like. Once you’ve found one that’s available and meets your requirements, simply add it to your basket and check out. Remember to keep it short and simple if you can and consider registering the same name in different domain extensions to stop someone else from owning it.

• What is a domain name extension?

  Domain name extensions, also known as Top-Level Domains (TLDs), domain roots, or suffixes, form the concluding part of a domain name. Popular domain name extensions include .com, .co.uk, .net, and .org, each serving different purposes and audiences. The choice of extension can significantly impact your domain name's effectiveness and reach.

  Domain names with country code Top-Level Domains (ccTLDs) are specifically tied to particular nations. For instance, domain names ending in .co.uk represent the United Kingdom, whilst those with .ie are associated with Ireland. These country- specific domain names can be particularly beneficial for businesses targeting local markets, or individuals wishing to emphasise their geographical location.

• What are the new gTLDs?

  Generic Top-Level Domains (gTLDs) offer practical and memorable alternatives to traditional domain name suffixes. These new domain name options provide website owners with a broader range of choices when selecting their ideal domain name. Unlike the more conventional domain name extensions such as .com, .net, and .org, which have been in use for decades, gTLDs offer fresh possibilities for creating unique and descriptive domain names.

  One of their primary advantages is their ability to describe the function or nature of a website directly within the domain name itself. For instance, an actor might choose a domain name ending in .actor for their professional website, whilst a fitness instructor could opt for a domain name with the .fitness extension. This allows for immediate recognition of a website's purpose, potentially improving its visibility and appeal to target audiences. The vast array of available gTLDs means that businesses and individuals can select domain names that align perfectly with their brand identity or professional focus.

• Who can register a domain name?

  Generally speaking, virtually anyone can secure a domain name. However, it's important to note that certain domain name extensions come with specific registration rules or restrictions. These rules are designed to ensure that domain names are used appropriately and only by the intended individuals or organisations. For instance, some domain names are reserved for particular types of businesses or those with specific qualifications.