What is domain name and domain registration?

A domain name refers to the URL people type in a web browser’s address bar to access your site. In other words, domain names offer a convenient way for people to access websites. Without it, they would have to use a numerical label assigned to every website and server on the internet, also known as an IP address. Generally, domain names consist of two main parts – a second-level domain (SLD) and a top-level domain (TLD). Second-level domains usually consist of words or phrases, while top-level domains are the predetermined extensions that follow.

For example, in the case of google.com, the second-level domain is google, and .com is the TLD. To learn more about domain names and how they work, read our beginner-friendly guide. To get a domain name for your website, you need to register it first. Domain registration is the process of reserving a name on the internet for a certain period. Usually, you need to renew the license once per year, but you can pay up in advance for up to 10 years for the domain to be registered under your name. Companies or organizations that sell and manage domain name registrations are called domain registrars. Domain registrars are listed under ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers), an authority that coordinates and manages domain databases on the internet.

However, before moving on to domain registration with a domain registrar, it is essential to check your custom domain’s availability. At Hostinger, we offer a domain name search tool to help you out.

Why Need Web Hosting if I Have a Domain Name?

A domain name is just your website’s address, while web hosting stores all your website data and files. Without web hosting, your website is nonexistent, and your domain name would point to nowhere. With Hostinger, you can get a domain name and web hosting account altogether. There are different plans and price ranges, too, depending on your website needs.

Do I Need a Domain if I Have Web Hosting?

It depends, but most of the time – yes. Some web hosting providers include a subdomain name that you can use free of charge. However, these subdomains don’t make your site look professional and cannot be customized. Purchasing custom domain names allows your website to have its own branding and voice. It also makes it easier for your web visitors to remember your site’s name.

Do I Have to Buy Web Hosting and a Domain Name Together?

You don’t have to buy a domain name and a web hosting account together. However, when you buy them separately, it is necessary to change the DNS settings and point the domain to your web hosting company. Otherwise, your website will become inaccessible. On the other hand, purchasing a domain and hosting from the same web host will save you the hassle of changing the domain name settings. It also offers a more convenient solution, as you manage and upgrade both services on the same admin dashboard.