How it works
Computers find each other with numeric IP addresses. The Domain Name System (DNS) works like a phone book that matches your domain to the right server, so people only need to remember the name.
The parts of a domain
In example.com, 'example' is the name you choose and '.com' is the top-level domain. Others include .org, .net, country codes like .ca and newer endings like .agency. A subdomain such as shop.example.com sits in front of the main name.
You rent it, you don't own it
Domains are registered through accredited registrars, usually for one year or more at a time, and must be renewed. If a renewal lapses, the domain can expire and someone else may register it.
Why Domain Name matters
Your domain is part of your brand and every link, email and ad points to it. A clear, easy-to-spell name helps people remember you and trust your emails. Changing domains later means redirects and a real risk of losing search rankings.
A renewal nobody saw
A small firm's domain was registered years ago on a personal card that later expired. Renewal notices went to an old inbox. The site and email went down for days until the owner proved who they were and recovered it.
Common mistakes
Registering it under one person
Put the domain in the company's name with a shared admin email, so it doesn't leave when an employee or agency does.
Hard-to-spell names
Hyphens, odd spellings and numbers make a name easy to mistype when people hear it said aloud. Simple and short usually wins.
Turning off auto-renew
Letting a domain lapse can take down your site and email at once. Keep auto-renew on and payment details current.
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