Resources for Domain Registration

Good news here:Registering an Internet domain name is one of the easiest and least costly parts about opening or operating a small business. No complicated forms, red tape or problematic paperwork. Provide some basic information, pay by credit card and presto – you're in the Internet game.

Heck, at some places you can claim your domain for less than $10 a year, and get a free email box with at the same time. In an age when a couple of gallons of gas cost more than an Internet name and email for an entire year, that seems like a screaming bargain.

So here's what you do:

1. Choose a domain name for your company's Web site.
2. Check to see if the name is available, or already registered. If it's not available, keep looking until you find one that is.
3. Once you have your name, register it with a domain registration service. If all you want for now is the name, you can stop there. Or see what further services the registrar offers that can help you get set up with a Web site and business email to your own domain.

Select of company that can deliver a complete line of other Web services

Make your life easy and go with one of the big guys. Today's top dogs offer either a la carte or comprehensive services, including: domain name search tools, registration, Web hosting, email, ecommerce solutions and even design and blogging software.

Open your search to other registration options

Looking for something different?

Stay on top of domain renewals

Most domain registrars offer discounts if you sign up for multiple years. Be sure your registration service also offers timely reminders to renew your registration and that you've provided the proper address where you want those notices to go.

• If you're a solo practitioner working from home, consider registering your domain "by proxy" — paying a service to register your site at a post office box rather than listing your home address.
• Go for the discounts — registering for five years is often a much better bargain than just one.
• If you haven't selected a Web designer or determined how to DIY your own design, you can "park" your domain name without hosting it anywhere — a temporary front page appears indicating that the domain name is taken and a site is forthcoming.
• Always ensure that your domain name registration service offers secure payment options — look for a Frequently Asked Questions link or a section referencing secure payment options.
• Scope out the home pages of registrars for special discounts or coupons, or sign up for a potential registrar's email newsletter — special offers are often sent to subscribers.