David Russell

A domain name is really just the representation of a numeric IP address that is assigned to a server that delivers files over the Web. Thanks to the Domain Name System (DNS), we can use alphanumeric addresses to browse the Web rather than clunky numeric strings. So our Web server can be reached by browsing to http://82.165.250.148—but it can also be reached by the simple domain name, http://theaterchurch.com.

By far, registering the domain name is the most important step of communicating over the web. Design changes. Code changes. Hosting changes. However, the domain is the cornerstone of it all. If you mishandle the domain name or fail to maintain proper registration of a name, you could lose it. Once a domain is up for registration, it is open to nearly anyone. That means anyone with any intention could take the domain you lost and use it for anything. It doesn’t take much imagination to see the detriment that is possible.

Register your domain name with an ICANN-accredited registrar. The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) helps moderate all addresses on the Web. They help protect consumers from failing or fraudulent domain registrars. Be cautious if someone offers to register a domain for you. Even if the person you are dealing with is trustworthy, verify that they will register the domain with a registrar in good standing and that they will assign the ownership of the domain to you and/or your organization. Never allow someone to register your domain in their own name. In most cases, it is best to register the domain yourself. The task is easy enough. 1and1.com is an excellent registrar (and Web host). Network Solutions is a popular and stable registrar, though pricing there is not necessarily competitive.