Wednesday, May 9, 2007

Tips for choosing a domain name

Choosing a domain names may seem like a simple task, unfortunately it is not always a simple as you would like it to be. They are a few rules you can use to avoid some of the hassle and frustration of registering a domain name.
The first rule is better the devil you know. This relates to domain registrars, in my experience it is best to stick with a domain registrar that you know. You will avoid the uncertainty of a new registration process and keeping all of your domains under one roof is much more convenient. I would only suggest trying a new registrar if you have a good recommendation from someone you trust.
Keep it short and simple. The more characters your domain name has the more a potential visitor has to type which means there is a greater chance of mistyping. Although it is unlikely you will be able to find a 3,4 or even 5 letter dot com domain you can still find or invent a catchy domain name with few letters.
Make it easy to say and easy to understand. It's all very well being clever and creating a domain that is a play on words but if it is too clever you could be saving up trouble for yourself. Domain names that are complicated of sound like other words can be difficult to pronounce let alone type in correctly.
Avoid plural versions of names if the non plural is taken. Better still use a domain name the does not have a plural version.If you register the non plural version make sure the plural version is available.
Get a dot com if you can. This is the best known extension and most easily remembered. If you type in a domain name into your browser without the extension it will assume it is a dot com and try to find that site.

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