Every website needs a domain name — it's how people find you online. But what exactly is a domain, how does it work, and how do you choose the right one? This comprehensive guide will answer all your questions about domain names, from registration to DNS configuration and everything in between.
What is a Domain Name?
A domain name is your website's address on the internet — the text people type into their browser to visit your site. For example, "google.com" or "visseranalytics.com" are domain names.
Domain names exist because humans are terrible at remembering numbers. Every website actually lives at a numerical IP address (like 192.168.1.1), but domain names translate those numbers into memorable words.
Anatomy of a Domain Name
A domain name has several parts. Let's break down "blog.example.com":
Subdomain (Optional)
blog.example.com
The part before the main domain. Common subdomains include "www", "blog", "shop", or "mail". You control and create these.
Second-Level Domain (SLD)
blog.example.com
Your unique identifier — your brand name, business name, or chosen identifier. This is what you "own" (technically lease).
Top-Level Domain (TLD)
blog.example.com
The extension. Common TLDs: .com (commercial), .org (organization), .net (network), .io (tech), .co (company), country codes like .us or .uk.
How Domain Names Work: The DNS System
When you type a domain name into your browser, a complex system called DNS (Domain Name System) translates that name into the IP address where the website actually lives. This process happens in milliseconds:
You Type Domain Name
You enter "example.com" in your browser and hit Enter.
DNS Resolver Query
Your computer asks a DNS resolver (usually your ISP's server): "What's the IP address for example.com?"
Nameserver Lookup
The resolver contacts the domain's nameservers (specified in your domain settings) to get DNS records.
IP Address Returned
The nameserver responds: "example.com is at 192.168.1.1"
Browser Connects
Your browser uses that IP address to connect to the web server and load the website.
This entire process is called a DNS lookup, and it happens every time someone visits your website (though results are cached to speed up subsequent visits).
Choosing the Right Domain Name
Your domain name is a long-term commitment and a key part of your brand. Choose wisely:
Keep It Short and Memorable
Shorter domains are easier to remember, type, and share. Aim for 6-14 characters if possible.
Use .com When Possible
While other TLDs are fine, .com is still the most recognized and trusted. People instinctively type .com when they can't remember the extension.
Avoid Numbers and Hyphens
These create confusion ('Is it 4 or four?', 'Is there a hyphen?'). Stick to letters only for maximum clarity.
Make It Brandable
Choose something unique and distinctive. Generic names are hard to remember and difficult to rank in search engines.
Consider Keywords
Including relevant keywords can help with SEO and make your purpose clear (e.g., 'MinneapolisPlumber.com').
Check Trademark Issues
Search the USPTO database to ensure you're not infringing on existing trademarks. This can save legal headaches later.
Choosing the Right TLD (Extension)
Best Choice: .com
Most recognized and trusted. Always try for .com first. 52% of all websites use .com domains.
.net or .org
Good alternatives if .com isn't available. .org traditionally for non-profits, .net for tech/network companies.
.io, .co, .ai
Popular with tech startups. .io = tech, .co = company, .ai = artificial intelligence. Pricier than .com.
Country Codes (.us, .uk, .ca)
Good for local businesses. Shows your geographic focus. Some require proof of residence/business in that country.
New gTLDs (.design, .tech, .shop)
Descriptive but less familiar to users. Can work if very relevant to your business. Often more expensive.
Avoid: Obscure TLDs
Strange extensions (.biz, .info, .xyz) are associated with spam and look unprofessional. Stick with recognized TLDs.
Domain Registrars: Where to Buy Your Domain
A domain registrar is a company authorized to sell and manage domain names. While all registrars ultimately register domains through the same system (ICANN), they differ significantly in pricing, features, and user experience.
Our Recommended Registrars
Domain Registrar Comparison
| Feature | Cloudflare | Namecheap | GoDaddy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | At-cost (no markup) | Competitive + frequent sales | High prices + upsells |
| .com Domain Price | ~$10/year | $10-15/year | $20-40/year (after promo) |
| Privacy Protection | Free (included) | Free (included) | $10-15/year extra |
| DNS Management | Excellent, fast, free CDN | Good, reliable | Adequate but slower |
| User Interface | Clean, modern | User-friendly | Cluttered with upsells |
| Customer Support | Email only | Chat & email | Phone, chat, email |
| Additional Services | CDN, security, workers | Hosting, email, VPN | Everything (aggressive sales) |
| Best For | Tech-savvy users, developers | Most people, best value | Non-technical users who need phone support |
Cloudflare
Our top pick for tech-savvy users. Cloudflare sells domains at-cost with no markup. You also get their excellent DNS management and free CDN services.
Why we recommend it:
- ✓ Transparent, at-cost pricing
- ✓ Free privacy protection
- ✓ Lightning-fast DNS
- ✓ Free CDN and security features
- ✓ Clean, modern interface
Namecheap
Great all-around choice for most people. Good pricing, reliable service, and user-friendly interface. Frequent sales make domains even cheaper.
Why we recommend it:
- ✓ Competitive pricing with frequent sales
- ✓ Free privacy protection included
- ✓ Excellent customer support
- ✓ User-friendly interface
- ✓ Additional services available
GoDaddy
The biggest registrar, but not the best value. Aggressive upselling, high renewal prices, and privacy protection costs extra.
Why we avoid it:
- ✗ Low intro prices, high renewals
- ✗ Privacy protection costs $10-15/year
- ✗ Cluttered UI with constant upsells
- ✗ Slower DNS performance
- ✗ Controversial business practices
How to Register a Domain
Registering a domain is straightforward once you know what you want. Here's the step-by-step process:
Domain Registration Process
Check Domain Availability
Search for your desired domain name to see if it's available. If taken, try variations or different TLDs (.com, .net, .io, etc.).
Choose a Registrar
Select a domain registrar like Cloudflare or Namecheap. Compare pricing, features, and reviews before deciding.
Complete Registration
Provide your contact information and payment details. Enable privacy protection to hide your personal information from WHOIS databases.
Configure DNS Settings
Point your domain to your <a href='/blog/what-is-website-hosting-guide/' class='text-primary dark:text-primary-dark-mode hover:underline'>website hosting</a> by updating nameservers or DNS records. This connects your domain to your actual website files.
Enable Security Features
Turn on two-factor authentication, domain locking, and auto-renewal to protect your domain from hijacking and accidental expiration.
Domain Privacy Protection (WHOIS Privacy)
When you register a domain, your contact information (name, address, phone, email) is published in the public WHOIS database by default. Domain privacy protection (also called WHOIS privacy) hides this information, showing the registrar's information instead.
Always enable privacy protection. It prevents spam, reduces identity theft risk, and keeps your personal information private. Cloudflare and Namecheap include this for free; GoDaddy charges extra for it (another reason to avoid them).
Understanding DNS Records
Once you own a domain, you need to configure DNS records to tell the internet where to send traffic for your domain. Think of DNS records as a directory — different record types serve different purposes.
Common DNS Record Types
A Record
Points domain to IPv4 addressConnect your domain to a web server
example.com → 192.168.1.1
AAAA Record
Points domain to IPv6 addressIPv6 version of A record
example.com → 2001:0db8:85a3::1
CNAME Record
Creates an alias to another domainPoint subdomain to main domain or external service
www.example.com → example.com
MX Record
Directs email to mail serversSet up email service (Gmail, Microsoft 365, etc.)
example.com → mail.google.com
TXT Record
Stores text informationEmail authentication, site verification, security
SPF, DKIM, domain verification
NS Record
Specifies nameservers for domainDelegate DNS management to specific nameservers
example.com → ns1.cloudflare.com
CAA Record
Authorizes SSL certificate issuanceSecurity measure for SSL certificates
Only Let's Encrypt can issue certs
PTR Record
Reverse DNS lookupEmail deliverability and server identification
192.168.1.1 → example.com
How to Configure DNS Records
The exact steps vary by registrar, but the process is similar everywhere:
Example: Adding an A Record
- 1. Log into your domain registrar (Cloudflare, Namecheap, etc.)
- 2. Navigate to DNS Management or DNS Settings for your domain
- 3. Click "Add Record" or similar button
- 4. Select record type:
A - 5. Enter name/host:
@(for root domain) orwww(for subdomain) - 6. Enter value: Your server's IP address (e.g.,
192.168.1.1) - 7. Set TTL (Time To Live):
3600seconds (1 hour) is common, or use "Auto" - 8. Save the record
Nameservers vs. DNS Records
There are two ways to point your domain to your website:
Option 1: Change Nameservers
Point your domain to different nameservers (like your hosting provider's). This gives the hosting provider complete control over your DNS records.
When to use:
- • Your host provides nameservers
- • You want host to manage DNS
- • You're using services like Cloudflare
Option 2: Update DNS Records
Keep your registrar's nameservers but add/edit individual DNS records (A, CNAME, MX, etc.). This gives you direct control over DNS.
When to use:
- • You want to manage DNS yourself
- • Your host provides IP addresses, not nameservers
- • You're using multiple services
Connecting Your Domain to Different Platforms
Different website platforms require different DNS configurations. Here's how to connect your domain to common hosting types:
Traditional Web Hosting (Shared, VPS, Dedicated)
Your hosting provider will give you either nameservers or an IP address:
- If nameservers provided: Change your domain's nameservers to theirs (e.g., ns1.hostprovider.com, ns2.hostprovider.com)
- If IP address provided: Create an A record pointing @ to the IP address, and another A record pointing www to the same IP
Examples: Bluehost, SiteGround, DigitalOcean, AWS
WordPress Hosting
WordPress hosts typically provide nameservers:
- Change your domain's nameservers to your WordPress host's nameservers
- Or create A records if they provide IP addresses
- Some managed WordPress hosts (like WP Engine) may provide specific CNAME records
Examples: WP Engine, Kinsta, Flywheel
Static Site Hosts (JAMstack)
Modern static hosts typically use CNAME or A records:
- Vercel/Netlify: Add CNAME record pointing www to their provided address (e.g., cname.vercel-dns.com)
- Root domain: Either use their nameservers or A/AAAA records to their load balancer IPs
- Follow their specific DNS configuration guide
Examples: Vercel, Netlify, Cloudflare Pages, GitHub Pages
Website Builders (Wix, Squarespace, Shopify)
Website builders usually provide specific DNS records:
- They'll give you specific A records and CNAME records to add
- Follow their connection wizard carefully
- Some may require you to transfer your domain to them (not recommended)
Examples: Wix, Squarespace, Shopify, Webflow
We Handle Domain & Hosting Setup
Confused about DNS records, nameservers, and connecting your domain to hosting? We handle all the technical details of domain registration, DNS configuration, and hosting setup for you.
Domain Registration
We'll help you choose and register the perfect domain name
DNS Configuration
Complete DNS setup with email, security records, and optimization
Hosting Integration
Connect your domain to the right hosting platform seamlessly
How to Transfer a Domain Between Registrars
Not happy with your current registrar? You can transfer your domain to a different registrar. The process is standardized but takes time:
Domain Transfer Process
Unlock Domain at Current Registrar
Log into your current registrar and remove the domain lock (also called registrar lock or transfer lock). This allows the domain to be transferred.
Get Authorization Code
Request the EPP code (also called auth code or transfer code) from your current registrar. You'll need this to authorize the transfer.
Initiate Transfer at New Registrar
Start the transfer process at your new registrar (like Cloudflare or Namecheap). Enter your domain name and authorization code.
Confirm Transfer via Email
You'll receive an email from your current registrar asking you to confirm or deny the transfer. Approve it to proceed.
Wait for Transfer Completion
Transfers typically take 5-7 days to complete. During this time, your website will continue to work normally. You'll receive confirmation when complete.
Configure DNS at New Registrar
Once transferred, verify your DNS settings at the new registrar match your previous configuration to ensure your website and email continue working.
Transfer Restrictions & Tips
- 60-Day Rule: You cannot transfer a domain within 60 days of registration or a previous transfer
- Renewal: Most transfers add 1 year to your domain registration (you don't lose time)
- Website stays live: Your website and email continue working during the transfer
- DNS records: Document your DNS records before transferring — you'll need to recreate them at the new registrar
Domain Management Best Practices
Once you own a domain, proper management is crucial to avoid losing it or having it hijacked:
Domain Management Checklist
Essential Domain Management
Lock in pricing and reduce renewal management
Prevent accidental domain expiration and loss
Hide personal information from WHOIS databases
Protect account from unauthorized access
Prevent unauthorized transfers
Receive important renewal and security notices
Makes troubleshooting and migration easier
Store complex registrar passwords securely
Protect your brand (.com, .net, common misspellings)
Backup reminder if auto-renewal fails
Lock in pricing and reduce renewal management
Prevent accidental domain expiration and loss
Hide personal information from WHOIS databases
Protect account from unauthorized access
Prevent unauthorized transfers
Receive important renewal and security notices
Makes troubleshooting and migration easier
Store complex registrar passwords securely
Protect your brand (.com, .net, common misspellings)
Backup reminder if auto-renewal fails
Domain Security
Domain Hijacking Threats
Domain hijacking is when someone gains unauthorized access to your domain account and transfers or changes your domain without permission.
Common attack vectors:
- • Weak passwords on registrar account
- • Phishing emails posing as registrar
- • Social engineering attacks on support
- • Compromised email accounts
Protection Measures
Protect your domain with these security measures:
- ✓ Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your registrar account
- ✓ Use a unique, strong password (20+ characters)
- ✓ Enable registrar lock to prevent unauthorized transfers
- ✓ Use a secure email address (with 2FA) for domain registration
- ✓ Monitor WHOIS records for unauthorized changes
- ✓ Set up alerts for DNS changes
Domain Pricing & Renewals
Understanding domain pricing helps you avoid surprises and make informed decisions:
The Pricing Game Registrars Play
Many registrars (especially GoDaddy) offer very cheap first-year prices to get you in the door, then charge much higher renewal prices. A domain that costs $2.99 for the first year might cost $20-40/year to renew.
Real Example:
Our advice: Pay attention to renewal prices, not just first-year prices. Registrars like Cloudflare that charge at-cost have consistent, transparent pricing with no surprises.
Typical Domain Pricing
| TLD | Cloudflare | Namecheap | GoDaddy (Renewal) |
|---|---|---|---|
| .com | $9.77/year | $10-15/year | $19.99+/year |
| .net | $12.06/year | $12-17/year | $19.99+/year |
| .org | $12.06/year | $12-17/year | $19.99+/year |
| .io | $38/year | $35-45/year | $59.99+/year |
| .ai | $100+/year | $100+/year | $120+/year |
Common Domain Issues & Solutions
Problem: "This site can't be reached" or DNS errors
Causes: DNS records not configured, DNS propagation still happening, incorrect nameservers, domain not pointing to hosting
Solutions:
- • Wait 24-48 hours for DNS propagation
- • Verify A records point to correct IP address
- • Check nameservers match your hosting provider
- • Use DNS checker tools to diagnose issues
Problem: Domain shows someone else's website
Causes: Domain pointing to wrong IP address, hosting not configured for your domain, DNS records point to old site
Solutions:
- • Verify DNS records point to correct hosting
- • Check with your hosting provider that domain is added to their system
- • Ensure you updated the right domain (not a typo)
Problem: Email stops working after DNS changes
Causes: MX records not configured at new DNS provider, MX records pointing to old mail server
Solutions:
- • Copy MX records from old DNS to new DNS provider
- • Verify MX records with your email provider's documentation
- • Check SPF and DKIM TXT records are also copied
- • Wait for DNS propagation (email may be delayed temporarily)
Problem: www and non-www versions show different content
Causes: Only one version (www or non-www) is configured in DNS, no redirect set up
Solutions:
- • Add both A records (@ and www) pointing to same IP
- • Or add CNAME record for www pointing to @ (root)
- • Configure your web server to redirect one version to the other
- • Choose one canonical version for SEO purposes
The Bottom Line
Your domain name is a fundamental part of your online presence — it's your address on the internet and often your first impression with potential customers. Understanding domains, how DNS works, and choosing the right registrar ensures you maintain control over this critical business asset.
While domain concepts can seem technical at first, the basics are straightforward: register your domain with a reputable registrar (we recommend Cloudflare or Namecheap), configure DNS to point to your hosting, enable security features, and keep your domain renewed.
Whether you handle domain management yourself or work with professionals, this knowledge helps you make informed decisions and avoid common pitfalls that could cost you time, money, or worse — losing your domain entirely.