Over the past month or so we have tackled just about everything there is to tackle when it comes to domain names. I told you my thoughts on how to pick one, how to shop for one, and how to get it up and going. What is left to talk about? Well, I might have a few more domain name tricks and tips up my Web Hosting Show sleave.
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Subdomains
So, what is a subdomain? It is a second level domain, some might say. You have probably seen one before. Think of mail.yahoo.com. That would be a subdomain of yahoo.com. They are used to break up your Web hosting account into different parts. Now, if you want one it shouldn’t be too hard to get one. Just about every domain name register and Web host out there offer them. It is just one more thing to keep in mind. One more screwdriver in your tool belt when it comes to planning the layout of your Web site.
Domain Name Acronyms
Now I am sure everybody knows what an acronym is. Just in case you don’t though, an acronym is a word that is formed by combining parts of other words. Web Hosting Show Fans’s Acronym would be WHSF. It takes the first letter of each word in the phrase and makes a word out of it. Now do you want to use acronyms when you pick your domain name? I would say maybe. I would rather you get the whole phrase first, and then pick up the acronym later on down the road. For example, www.ilovemashedpotatosandcheese.com might be a little too long of a domain name. In that case, it might be better to direct people towards www.ilmpac.com.
Price Comparisons on Domains
There are a lot of different prices and deals out there when it comes to domain name shopping. Maybe even more than you would get when shopping for a Web hosting account. You have to remember to be a smart consumer and comparison shop between multiple places. You won’t find the deal of your dreams your first time out. It is always a good idea to weigh the advantages and the disadvantages of multiple places before making your final choice. Decide which price and features is the best for you, then pick your domain name register.
Own Your Domain Name
The last tip I have for you today was suggested to me by a Web Hosting Show fan named David. You should always make sure that the domain name is registered in your name and not the name of the Web host or the domain name register. That way if you want to move to a different Web host or domain name register, the process isn’t such a pain in the rear. Want to find out who’s name your domain name is under? Just do a simple Whois search and you should be given all the details there are. Make sure you always read the fine print.
Make sure you tune in next Monday for a brand new edition of the Web Hosting Show. This podcast has been supported by the fine folks over at Web Hosting Chat, your number one place for Web hosting discussions. Remember, if you want anymore Web hosting interviews, videos or podcast go check out WebHostingShow.com.
