Author Kurt Schauer
If you are thinking about creating your own website, there is one thing you cannot avoid: domain registration. Without it, there is no website. In general, it is a simple undertaking - but there are a few points you should consider. After all, you want to register a domain that reflects the content of your website or your company. In this article, you will learn what you should pay attention to when registering and how this process works.
What type of domain should it be?
A web address is generally divided into a top-level domain and a second-level domain. The first category includes the ending - this includes .com, .de, .org, .eu or .net. The second-level domain is the part that is between the "www." and the mentioned ending. It often contains a reference to the topic or the name of the website.
If your company operates locally or regionally, you should choose a country-specific top-level domain. However, you should note that you must be resident in the country in question to register this extension. A global website, on the other hand, should use the .com extension. The .net top-level domain was originally intended for network administrations and .org for non-profit organizations. Today, the rules are less strict in this regard, so you have a lot of flexibility when choosing the extension.
Source: freepik.com
These aspects must be taken into account for second-level domains
Things get a little more complicated when choosing the second-level domain. This requires some brainstorming, especially if you are still unsure about the name of the company and website. You can choose any combination of letters from A to Z and numbers from 0 to 9.
Potential visitors should be able to remember the address easily. Ideally, you should choose a short name and avoid special characters. Be sure to check in advance whether the domain name you want is already taken. To do this, enter the potential web address in Google. Alternatively, you can also contact a trademark lawyer.
If your desired domain is already taken, it may be sufficient to add a word with a local reference to the name. This will also create a connection to your region. This aspect can be important from a search engine optimization (SEO) perspective. It is advantageous if the domain already contains relevant search terms.
The industry you are in also influences the choice of web address. Take a close look at your competition. Pay attention to which domains are particularly popular in your industry and appear on the first page of Google. This will help you find out which top and second-level domains will maximize your chances of success.
In Germany, anyone can basically register their own web domain. However, website operators must choose a unique domain name - this means that the web address can only exist once. The principle here is first come, first served. If your desired domain has already been reserved, you no longer have a claim to it.
When registering, it is also possible to use umlauts. This is made possible by a conversion protocol. However, this is not recommended, especially if your company also operates internationally. In this case, it is advisable to avoid using umlauts and special characters.
Domains are valid for a specific period of time after registration. If the contract expires, you can of course extend it at any time - this often happens automatically. If you request that the address be deleted or transferred, you must observe the provider's notice periods.
By law, every provider is obliged to verify the authenticity of the buyer's contact details. When you register a web address, the provider will then send you a message to the email address you provided when registering. This email contains a verification link - click on it within 15 days to confirm ownership of the domain.
If the specified deadline is exceeded, the provider will deactivate the web address. You can of course start the registration process again afterwards - however, the provider can release such domains again. So don't delay confirming your contact details for too long.
Buy domains that are no longer available
If the address you want is already taken, you basically have no way of buying it from a provider. This also applies if it is not actively used. However, you don't have to throw in the towel immediately. Run a WHOIS query in the registry database to find the owner. This way you can make them an offer to buy the domain directly. People who do not use their domains are often willing to sell them.
Registration is only half the battle
By registering your domain, you have completed an important step. However, you are only at the beginning of the process, because now it is time to create the website. The best thing to do is to contact a professional. If you want potential customers to find you on the Internet, you have to consider many aspects when designing your website. This also applies to the content of the website. If you have your portal optimized, you will be one step ahead of your competition and will soon be able to enjoy an increasing number of customers.
We at KAOS are happy to help you create your platform. Our team has extensive experience and will respond to your needs. If you need help, contact us today. The initial consultation is free and non-binding. You can contact our staff by phone or email.
You can also contact us if you have any questions about domains. We will be happy to help you find the right web address for your portal and will of course take your wishes into account. With us you get everything from a single source. We look forward to hearing from you!
Conclusion – every beginning does not have to be difficult
The actual registration of your desired domain is straightforward. However, you should not rush this process. Think carefully about which top-level and second-level domain best suits your company. Make sure that the web address is easy to remember, contains relevant search terms and matches your service. It is always worth analyzing your industry and the web addresses represented there in more detail beforehand. This way you can see which domains are well received.
Are you unsure about which domain to choose or do you need support with web design? Then contact our KAOS team. With us, you benefit from comprehensive support.
Any questions?
Eliana Gramer
Head of Web/Digital
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