Establishing your online presence is a key to legitimizing your business or brand on the internet. Setting up a fully functional website provides a unique space for you to make your mark on the internet. The first step to creating a website begins with your domain name which is the way your customers will be introduced to your business or brand online.

What is a Domain Name 

A domain name is the web address that a user types into the web browser to get to your website. All websites on the internet are made up of a unique combination of numbers and characters called the Internet Protocol (IP address) which determines how they are accessed from any device or location. Since the IP address can be difficult for any one person to remember, the domain name replaces the numbers and characters with a word-based format that is easier for users to remember. Instead of the random mix of numbers that represents your IP address, a user will type in www.yourdomainname.com and the “yourdomain” portion of that address is your domain name. There are endless options to consider when selecting a domain name, but whether it is for personal or business use, it should always be authentic and original.

Important factors When Choosing Your Domain Name

• Use .com, .org or .net (most popular ones)
• Incorporate the most important features of your brand by using keywords or phrases to make it distinguishable
• Keep it short, aim for 6-14 characters
• Make it catchy
• Make it easy to type into a search browser
• Make it easy to spell and easy to pronounce
• Avoid hyphens and numbers

Is Your Name Available

Now that you have chosen your domain name, the next step is to find out whether it has been registered by someone else. It is imperative to check the availability of a domain name because if it is already in use on the internet, you won’t be able to use it even if the website is not currently active. You can check on https://knowem.com . This site will show whether that domain name is available throughout over 25 popular social networks and if there are any trademarks already registered to the name. A domain name generator is a great tool that can tell you if a domain name is currently in use before your register it. If the name you have chosen has been used, the domain name generator will provide creative alternatives from your initial domain ideas and keywords.

What now

You have chosen your domain name and determined it’s availability, what now? It’s time for the Pro’s to step in! Let MoonRay secure your domain name and get you started. We are a full-service internet marketing agency. We can create your website as well as your entire marketing identity, from branding, logos, search engine and video marketing and more! We can manage multiple social networks for your business, including Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Blogs and more. Visit our website at https://moonray.net for more information or contact us at (704)854-4932.