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Domain name tips

On the internet, computers are located by numbers - IP addresses.

A domain name is an easier way to remember a computer's IP address.
On the Web, the domain name is that part of the Uniform Resource Locator (URL) that tells a domain name server using the domain name system (DNS) whether and where to forward a request for a Web page.

The domain name is mapped to an IP address (which represents a physical point on the Internet).

Take an example domain name, "cyberpack.com.au".

The "com" part of the domain name reflects the purpose of the organisation or entity (in our example, "commercial") and is called the top-level domain name.

The "cyberpack" part of the domain name defines the organisation or entity, and together with the top-level is called the second-level domain name. The second-level domain name maps to and can be thought of as the "readable" version of the Internet address.

A third level can be defined to identify a particular host server at the Internet address. Usually www, the third level of domain name is not required.

Sub domain levels can also be used - such as sales.cyberpack.com.au

Why do I need a domain name ?

A domain name offers a much easier way for your site's address to be remembered than an IP address. If you want people to remember your address, a domain name is more or less essential.

Email is another great spin off when you have your own domain name - you won't be taken seriously with an email address from a free email service. In fact, some online businesses won't take orders from people using free email service addresses because they're used so frequently for fraud. Compare this with being able to email from the address yourname@yoursite.com

Why do I need a domain name ?

Choosing a good domain name takes a little time, but isn't too difficult. Your primary goal should be to come up with a name that is memorable, ties in with your site, and is available!

Try to keep your name non-complex and short. No strange characters or names. For example many people don’t know how to type a “~” and “flighhigh” has two “h's so the risk of typos could be high. If you have a long or multi word business name consider initials. It should be lower case, with no gaps, you can use _ or – but no / or \ between letters and words.

If you have an established business and the most appropriate domain name is taken, consider looking up the owner using our domain search and making an offer. You never know - they may be willing to sell for a reasonable price.

If you're just setting up your business, consider looking for a great domain name and naming your business accordingly. Might sound strange, but it's a very good idea for a primarily (or totally) internet based business.

Is domain name length important ?

Domain names can be of any length up to 67 characters. You don't have to settle for an obscure domain name like ybos.com when what you mean is YourBusinessOnlineStore.com That said, there is some uncertainty about whether a long or short domain name is better.

Some argue that shorter domain names are easier to remember, easier to type and less susceptible to mistakes. Others argue that a longer domain name is usually easier on the human memory.

In summary, you're probably best to go for the shorter name if its a meaningful one, but choose the longer name if it's easier to remember. However, avoid extremely long domain names!

dotcom or not dotcom ?

If your site caters to a country outside the US, you may well be better off registering youridealname.yourcountryextension - your target audience then knows your site is local.

Of course, you'd probably be crazy not to get youridealname.com AND youridealname.yourcountryextension if they're both available !

How much will it cost ?

Domain registration is VERY affordable. Things have changed from the days when it cost US$75 to register a domain name for one year. You'll now pay a small fee every year (every two years for some extensions) for the use of your domain name. As expenses go, this is a very affordable one!

What sort of domain name can I register ?

We can register the following domain names:
.com
.info
.net
.org
.biz
.name
.com.au
.net.au
.org.au
.ac.nz
.co.nz
.net.nz
.org.nz
.school.nz
.co.uk
.co.za

If your question is not answered by the resources above or if you think we should add something to these resources, please don't hesitate to contact us.

For more information about domain names go to:

	Domain Name Availability
	Register Domain Name
	Domain Tips

For more information about domain names phone
1300 763 201
Email: sales@cyberpack.com.au