How To Register A Domain Name in 3 Steps

Chris    Online     domain name, domain registration, how to

Getting your own domain name is a fairly straight forward process once you know how to do it. It can be summarised in 3 simple steps:

1. Find a registrar
2. Select a name
3. Pay for it

Step 1 – Find a registrar
There are many you can choose from, you only need to google ‘domain registration’ to be flooded with tonnes of options. The ones that are I tend to use are Namecheap, GoDaddy and RegisterDirect.

If you’re after an international domain like a .com or .net, use Namecheap or GoDaddy, they’re pretty cheap. If you’re after a NZ extension like .co.nz or .net.nz, try RegisterDirect.

There are slightly cheaper registrars for NZ domains elsewhere but I’ve found the user interface for RegisterDirect really straight forward and easy to use, plus they host email accounts too for you if you need.

Step 2 – Select a Name
There will be a search form on the site where you’ll be able to type your choice for a domain name, you should also have choices as to what suffix ie. .com, .net, you want to search on. If your chosen domain name is available, they’ll let you know otherwise you’ll have to try searching other options.

Should you go for .com or .co.nz?
I would suggest looking at where your visitors are coming from and who you want to deal with. If you’re predominantly local than .co.nz should be your preferred choice. If you’re looking at setting up a site that is going to deal with people more internationally, go for a .com or .net type suffix.

Learn more about domain suffixes.

Step 3 – Pay For It
In this section, you’ll need to sign up an account with your chosen registrar. You’ll probably be asked to enter information for various things like the technical contact, administrative contact, blah, blah, just make it the same for all. That is unless you’re registering a domain for a more corporate purpose and then you should make sure the appropriate people are listed for that domain.

Select the length of time you wish to register your domain for and then enter your credit card details and voila! You are now the proud owner of a new domain.

Registration Privacy Protection
If it’s possible, I would also try to get to get registration privacy protection when you’re purchasing your domain name, otherwise your address and contact details are freely available under a ‘whois’ search. Just something to keep in mind to be safe guarded against possible spammers or telemarketers.

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www.ChrisYong.net – Music, Websites & Marketing

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