Your Checklist
Just the essentials on your domain name, with no fluff and solid advice from years of experience on the web. We have done the research, so you can spend more time running your business. Your domain is your slice of the internet, your real estate. Let's get into the essentials and what you need to know.
1. Own Your Domain Name
Firstly, and most critical, always register your domain yourself - never let an agency or any other third party giving you advice control it. Transferring ownership later can be a nightmare, and losing it could erase years of your authority on the internet and any SEO equity that you have built. Start your online journey the right way.
Your Domain, Your Destiny: Why its Critical to Own Your Domain Name
Your domain isn’t just a web address - it’s the foundation of your online identity.
Owning your domain name ensures you control your digital future.
OK, how do you go about acquiring your slice of the world wide web. Let's look at choosing the best domain to give your online journey the best start. Sifting through hours of often conflicting information online can be tedious. We're here to help.
2. Choosing Your Domain Name
Your domain name is your digital storefront - it’s how customers find you, remember you and trust you. But with millions of domains already registered, choosing your domain name requires strategy. Let’s break down the key factors to consider and the mistakes that could derail your online presence.
After reading the article, if you are still unsure, watching a few videos can help. We have selected a few of the best.
3. Social Media Name Checker
Your social media handles are the face of your brand online—but securing the perfect user name isn’t easy. With billions of accounts across platforms, a social media name checker is your secret weapon to claim consistent, memorable handles. Here’s how to use these tools effectively and avoid costly branding mistakes.
4. Registering Your Domain Name
Now that you have done your research, chosen the appropriate extension, checked the availability of your domain name and made sure that the social handles are available, you are ready to register it. Almost every hosting company is also a domain registrar, so there are probably hundreds, but its best to stick to the household names.
Here are three of the best. Go Daddy has a South African website and offers .co.za domains priced in Rands.
5. FAQ's
What is a domain name?
A domain name is a human-readable address used to identify and access websites on the internet. It serves as a user-friendly alternative to the numeric IP addresses that computers use to locate websites. Think of it as your digital address online.
Do I own my domain name forever once I register it?
No, you don't actually "own" a domain name permanently. When you register a domain, you're essentially leasing the rights to use that domain for a specific period—usually 1 to 10 years. You can continue to renew it indefinitely to maintain control, but it requires regular renewal.
How long can I register a domain name for?
Most domain names can be registered for a minimum of 1 year up to a maximum of 10 years. You'll need to renew your domain before it expires to maintain your rights to it.
What happens if my domain expires?
If your domain expires, it typically enters a grace period (varies from 0 to 45 days depending on the domain extension) where you can still renew it at the regular price. After this, it enters a redemption period where renewal costs significantly more. If not renewed during redemption, the domain eventually becomes available for anyone to register.
Can I buy a domain name without hosting?
Yes, you can register a domain name without purchasing hosting. The domain registration and web hosting are separate services, though many providers offer both. You'll eventually need hosting to create a functioning website.
Can I use my domain for email?
Yes, most domain registrations allow you to set up professional email addresses using your domain name (like info@yourdomain.com). This is typically done through your hosting provider or a separate email service.