Starting an Online Business All-in-One For Dummies®, 3rd Edition

Chapter 1: What's in a (Domain) Name?

In This Chapter

• Finding your Web name
• Following the rules of registration
• Realizing the limited nature of domain name options

In the offline world, the mantra of success for business is “Location, location, location!” It's not much different for your online business: Rather than use a numerical address on a building, though, you now use a virtual address or domain name. Usually, your online address includes your company's name or initials or some other derivation. A traditional business address is listed in the Yellow Pages, and your online address is listed with search engines.

As you might guess, securing the best possible domain name is an important piece of your overall online strategy because the name you select can influence how easily customers can find you. How do you get the perfect name to drive customers to your online place of business?

Not to worry: After using the information in this chapter, you'll find that choosing and registering your address is only a few clicks away.