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. Generally, it is a simple undertaking – nevertheless, there are a few points you should take into account. 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 during registration and how this process works.
What kind of domain would you like?
A web address is generally divided into a top-level domain and a second-level domain. The first category includes the extension – this includes, among others, .com, .de, .org, .eu, or .net. The second-level domain is the part located between „www.“ and the aforementioned extension. It often contains a hint about the topic or name of the website.
If your company operates locally or regionally, you should choose a country-specific top-level domain. However, it should be noted that your residence for registering this extension must be in the respective country. A globally oriented website, on the other hand, should use the .com extension. The top-level domain .net was originally intended for network administrations and .org for non-profit organizations. Today, the rules in this regard are less strict, so you are largely flexible in choosing the extension.
Source: freepik.com
These aspects must be considered for second-level domains
It gets somewhat more complicated when choosing the second-level domain. Here, some brainstorming is required first, especially if you are still unsure about the name of the company and the website. You can choose any combination of the letters from A to Z and the numbers from 0 to 9.
Potential visitors should be able to remember the address easily. Ideally, you choose a short name and avoid special characters. Be sure to check in advance whether the desired domain name is already taken. To do so, enter the potential web address into Google. Alternatively, you can also consult a lawyer specializing in trademark law.
If your desired domain is already taken, it may be enough to add a word with a local reference to the name. This also establishes a connection to your region at the same time. 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 in which you operate also influences the choice of web address. Feel free to take a close look at your competition. Pay attention to which domains are particularly in demand in your industry and appear on the first page of Google. This way, you can find out which top-level and second-level domains maximize your chances of success.
In Germany, in principle anyone can register their own web domain. However, website operators must choose a unique domain name – this means that the web address may only exist once. The principle here is: first come, first served. If your desired domain is already reserved, you no longer have any claim to it.
By the way, it is also possible to use umlauts during registration. This is made possible by a conversion protocol. However, this is not advisable, especially if your company also operates internationally. In this case, it is advisable to avoid umlauts and special characters.
After registration, domains are valid for a specific period. If the contract expires, you can of course renew it at any time – often this happens automatically. If you request the deletion or transfer of the address, 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 during registration. This email contains a verification link – click on it within 15 days to confirm ownership of the domain.
If this deadline is exceeded, the provider deactivates the web address. You can of course start the registration process again afterwards – however, the provider may release such domains again. So do not delay confirming your contact details for too long.
Buying domains that are no longer available
If your desired address is already taken, you generally no longer have the option to purchase it from a provider. This also applies if it is not actively used. However, you do not have to throw in the towel immediately. Perform a WHOIS query via the registry database to identify the owner. This way, you can directly make an offer to purchase the domain from them. Especially individuals who do not use their domains are often willing to sell them.
Registration is only half the battle
With domain registration, you have completed an important step. However, you are only at the beginning of the process, because now it’s time to create the website. For this, it is best to turn to a professional. If you want potential customers to find you on the internet, you need to consider many aspects of web design. 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 can soon look forward to an increasing number of customers.
At KAOS, we are happy to assist you in creating your platform. Our team has extensive experience and will address your wishes. Please contact us today if needed. The initial consultation with us is free and non-binding. You can contact our employees by phone or email.
Even if you have questions about domains, you can contact us. We are 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 doesn’t have to be difficult
The actual registration of your desired domain is straightforward. However, you should not rush this process. Carefully consider which top-level and second-level domain best suits your company. Ensure that the web address is easy to remember, contains relevant search terms, and matches your services. It is always worthwhile to analyze your industry and the web addresses represented there in advance. This way, you can see which domains are well-received.
Are you unsure about choosing a domain or do you need support with web design? Then contact our KAOS team. With us, you benefit from comprehensive support.
Do you have questions?
Eliana Gramer
Head of Web/Digital
