GoWeb1 DIY Guide to Domain Names

Welcome to the GoWeb1 DIY guide to domain names. We hope this page will be a helpful resource as you work to establish your website and build your online presence.

 

What Is a Domain Name?

 

A domain name is the unique web address people use to find your website. For example, GoWeb1's domain name is goweb1.com.

Your domain name is separate from your website and web hosting. You can register your domain with one provider and host your website somewhere else, although many businesses choose to manage both through the same provider for convenience.

Choosing Your Domain Name

When possible, choose a domain name that closely matches your business, organization, or brand. A short, memorable name is generally easier for customers to remember and type.

Before settling on a name, consider:

• Keep it simple. Avoid unnecessary numbers, hyphens, or complicated spellings when possible.


• Make it memorable. Choose something that's easy to say and remember.


• Match your brand. Your domain should make sense with your business or organization name.


• Think long-term. Choose a name that will still work if your business expands or your offerings change.


• Check availability. Your preferred domain may already be registered, so you may need to consider an alternative name or domain extension.


 

You can search for available domain names through a domain registrar. If your first choice isn't available, you'll often find alternative domain extensions or similar names to consider.

 

What Do Domain Extensions Mean?

The letters at the end of a domain name are called the top-level domain (TLD). You've probably seen familiar extensions such as .com, .org, and .net, but there are now hundreds of domain extensions available for different businesses, organizations, industries, and interests.

Here are some of the most common options:

• .COM – Originally associated with commercial businesses, .com is now the most widely recognized domain extension and is used by businesses and organizations of all types.


• .ORG – Commonly used by nonprofits, associations, community organizations, and other groups. It is not limited exclusively to nonprofits.


• .NET – Originally associated with network-related organizations, .net is now available for general use and can be an alternative when your preferred .com is unavailable.


• .BIZ – Intended for businesses and commercial use, although it is less commonly used than .com.


• .EDU – Restricted to eligible U.S. postsecondary educational institutions and certain qualifying organizations. It is not available for general educational websites.


• .GOV – Restricted to verified U.S. government organizations, including eligible federal, state, local, tribal, and other government entities.


• .MIL – Reserved for the U.S. military.


 

There are also many newer extensions that can be relevant to specific businesses or industries, such as .shop, .agency, .design, .law, .restaurant, and many others.

GoWeb1 Pro Tip: Don't feel like you have to find a clever alternative extension just because your preferred .com is unavailable. For most businesses, a simple, memorable domain name is more important than finding a trendy extension.

What If the Domain Name I Want Is Already Taken?

Don't worry if your first choice isn't available. You can consider a slightly different version of your business name, adding a location or descriptive word, or choosing another appropriate domain extension.

For example, if smithlandscaping.com isn't available, you might consider a variation such as smithlandscapingspringfield.com or another relevant extension.

Before purchasing a domain, it's also a good idea to make sure the name isn't confusingly similar to another business or protected trademark.

Domain Registration vs. Web Hosting

Registering a domain name and hosting a website are two different services.

Your domain name is your website's address.

Web hosting is where your website's files are stored so visitors can access your site.

You can register your domain and purchase hosting from different providers, but keeping these services together can make management and support easier.

Transferring an Existing Domain

Already own a domain name? You don't necessarily need to purchase a new one when you move your website to GoWeb1.

In many cases, you can transfer your domain registration to a new registrar or simply update the domain's DNS settings to point to your new website or hosting provider.

If you're considering moving an existing domain, check your current registrar's transfer requirements before getting started. Domain transfers may have eligibility requirements or timing restrictions.

Ready to Register Your Domain?

A domain name is one of the first steps toward establishing your business or organization's presence online. Take some time to choose a name that is memorable, fits your brand, and can grow with you.

Ready to get started? Explore GoWeb1's website and hosting options to find the right solution for your new website.