So, you want to start a website?

The first step in getting your website online is to register a unique domain name, so that your visitors can find you. A domain name is like your telephone number; it’s unique to you and allows web users to access your website.

On average, many of the top level  domain name extensions are approximately $15/year.  Some of these include:  .com, .net, .org, .biz, .info, and .ca. Domain name registrations are billed annually.  You also have the option of registering for multiple years at a time.

Before you can register a domain name, you need to see if the distinct name is available. All registrars will allow you to perform a free search for a domain name’s availability. Below is a link to a domain name registrar’s search box.

http://www.8inet.com/domains/

After performing a search, and verifying that the domain name is available, you can register it. The registrar’s search form results will directly allow you, or send you to a page, to complete the domain name registration. During the registration process, you will need to submit your name, e-mail address and contact information such as your mailing address and telephone number.

Depending on the registrar, you can pay by various methods, including: credit card, online cheques, paypal, online debit (interac for Canadians).

Once a domain name has been registered, you will need to find a web hosting company to host the domain name. You can read about finding a host for you domain name in our next blog entry.

Thanks,