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A domain is the name people type to find your website—it’s how your site gets noticed remembered and trusted online. It’s simple but it tells visitors who you are before they even click. Find out what a domain really is and why picking the right one matters for your site’s security, credibility and success.
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TL;DR: what is a domain name
To help you get started, we’ve put together a detailed guide on all things domain names. You’ll learn what a domain name is, how it works and the best practices for picking and registering one that fits your goals. Here’s what you’ll find in this guide (you can skip ahead to any of the sections below):
What is a domain name?
A domain name is the human-friendly address people type into a browser to reach a website. It replaces the site’s numerical IP address with words that are easy to read, remember and share. A domain name also identifies a website on the internet, making it unique and accessible to anyone online.
What does a domain look like?
A domain name has a few parts separated by dots. The name in the middle is your second-level domain which is often your brand or project name. Then there’s the extension like .com .org or .net which tells you what kind of domain it is. You can also add subdomains like shop.example.com to send visitors to specific parts of your site.
Domains can have letters numbers and hyphens but no spaces or special characters. They aren’t case-sensitive either so Example.com is the same as example.com.
How do domains work?
The internet is a global network of computers connected by submarine cables, with each computer having an IP address to send and retrieve data. Domain names are easier-to-remember versions of these IP addresses, like saving a friend’s number under their name in your phone. The domain name system (DNS) acts as the internet’s phone book, translating domain names into numeric IP addresses.
When you type a domain name in your browser, DNS servers find the matching IP address and send your request to the “name servers,” managed by your web hosting provider. The name servers connect to the web server hosting the site, and the data is sent back to your browser—all in seconds.
In fact, approximately 16.4 billion searches are made daily on Google alone, relying on the DNS to connect users to the correct websites quickly and efficiently.
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Who runs the domain name system
A global system manages domain names, making sure every web address is one-of-a-kind and assigned correctly. To make this happen, several organizations and providers work together.
Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN): Oversees the global domain name system and sets policies for how domains are registered and managed.
Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA): Maintains the root zone of the Domain Name System and coordinates technical aspects of domain management.
Domain registries: Organizations that manage specific top-level domains like .org, .com or .net and maintain the database of registered names.
Domain registrars: Companies where individuals or businesses register and manage domains, including renewals, DNS settings, and transfers.
Found the perfect name for your business? Lock in your domain before someone else does.
What domains are for
The most common use of a domain is hosting a website, but domains also power email, landing pages and web apps, keeping your projects and communications organized and easy to access.
Websites: Domains let people find and access your website easily for business, portfolios, blogs, or personal projects.
Professional email: Domains let you set up email addresses like info@yourbrand.com so messages go to the right inbox and are easy to identify.
Landing pages: Domains can point to dedicated pages for events, promotions, or campaigns, making them easy to share and track.
Apps and services: Domains provide a clear address for web apps or tools, helping users reach the service directly without confusion.
So, if you’re planning on building a website—whether it’s to open an online store or to display your online portfolio for potential employers to hire you—then you’ll need to get familiar with the ins and outs of domain names.
Get your domain name now and then learn how to make a website to go with it.
What is a domain in email?
The domain in your email address shows which server sends and receives messages. It’s the part after the @ symbol and usually matches your website’s domain making it easier for people to recognize your brand.
Using a branded domain for your email adds a professional touch and makes sure replies go to the right place. You can also create multiple email addresses with the same domain like sales@yourbrand.com or support@yourbrand.com to organize your communications.
The history of domains
Domain names revolutionized the early days of the internet. Before they existed, users had to input long numeric IP addresses to access websites—a frustrating and complicated process. In 1983, Paul Mockapetris and Jon Postel introduced the Domain Name System (DNS), pairing human-readable names (like “example.com”) with IP addresses. This breakthrough made navigating the web simple and accessible, laying the foundation for the internet we know today.
Initially, domain names came with just a few extensions. The first top-level domains (TLDs) launched in 1985—.com for businesses, .org for organizations, .net for networks and a few others. While these TLDs started with specific purposes, their use quickly expanded as the internet grew.
Difference between a domain name and a URL
A lot of people use the terms domain name and Universal Resource Locator (URL) interchangeably but there’s actually a bit of a difference. A domain name is just one part of a URL. Think of it as the main part of the web address that includes two main elements: the name itself and the extension. For example, in “google.com,” “Google” is the name and “.com” is the top-level domain. But when you look at your browser’s address bar, you’ll see more than just that–it’s made up of several parts of a URL working together to form the full URL.
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The difference between domain and hosting
To create a website, you need a domain name and web hosting. These two are often provided by the same company, which can make their roles confusing. Together, they form the foundation of your website’s infrastructure.
Think of your website as an apartment complex. Web hosting is the land where your building (the website) stands, storing all its files on web servers. The domain name is like the building’s address, making it easy for visitors to find you—just as a physical address does. Adding a path, such as “/blog,” directs visitors to a specific page, much like an apartment number guides someone to a particular unit.
The internet itself acts as the street that connects visitors to your virtual building.
Learn more: Web host vs. domain registrar
Different types of domains
The DNS uses a unique tree-like structure to keep its huge database organized. At the top is the root domain, represented by a dot. Everything below that dot forms the domain name space, broken into different levels based on how fast down they fall from the root.
This results in different types of domains, all of which serve a different purpose:
Top-level domains (TLD), including new top-level domains
Second-level domains (SLD)
Third-level domains
Top-level domains (TLD)
A top-level domain, generally referred to as TLD or domain extension, is the right-most segment of a domain name located after the last dot. It serves to recognize certain characteristics of a website address, such as location and purpose. In August 2022, there were 1,487 TLDs available for registration, the majority of which were added in the last decade.
If you’re picking a TLD, choose one that matches your website’s vibe and audience. The options are endless, so you’re sure to find one that makes your site unique.
Learn more about how to find the owner of a domain or domain name trends.
Let’s take a look at the most popular categorizations:
Generic top-level domains (gTLD): Commonly known simply as gTLDs, generic top-level domains are made of three or more characters and are open for registration by anyone. gTLDs account for the vast majority of domain extension options, with more than a thousand added in recent years through ICANN’s new gTLDs program. Available options range from the traditional .org, .com and .net to newer options such as .biz, .llc, .tips, .store, .co, .photos, .love, .work, .space, .digital, .club, .tv, .blog, .info, .site, .land, .company, .solutions, .website, .tech, .training, .coach, .world, .party, .yoga, .wiki, .ninja, .directory, .guru, .live, .fit, .studio, .today, .design, .pictures, .expert, .technology, .top, .co.uk, .london, .tokyo, .email and .xyz.
Sponsored top-level domains (sTLD): These are more niche and managed by specific organizations. To register an sTLDA, you usually need to meet certain criteria related to a community or theme. If your website caters to a specific group, an sTLD can help establish credibility and trust right away.
Country code top-level domains (ccTLD): There are 308 country code top-level domains, each of which is identified by a unique, two-letter string. While country code top-level domains were originally intended for business and individuals operating in specific geographical areas, there is also a significant number of website owners who register ccTLDs for branding purposes or to take advantage of certain benefits. This is the case with extensions such as .ai (Anguilla), which is particularly popular within companies in the artificial intelligence industry, and .gg (Bailiwick of Guernsey), which has seen a significant popularity rise in the gaming sphere. Other ccTLD include: .de (Germany), .nl (Netherlands), .at (Austria), .mx (Mexico), .me (Montenegro), .ch (Switzerland), .br (Brazil), .be (Belgium), .fr (France), .in (India) and .ca (Canada).
Claim a premium domain to boost your brand authority and make marketing easier from day one.
Second-level domains (SLDs)
The second-level domain (SLD) is the part of a domain name that comes before the TLD. It’s typically where you’ll find your brand name, like "wix" is the SLD in "www.wix.com."
In some cases, the SLD can also show the type of website in a region. For example, commercial websites in Spain may be registered with the domain extension .com.es whereas in the UK they appear as .co.uk. Likewise, in these same countries academic institutions may be registered under .edu.es and .ac.uk respectively.
Third-level domains
A third-level domain (or subdomain) adds a prefix to a main domain and creates a separate section of your site. It’s perfect for things like blogs, online stores or resource pages without needing to buy a whole new domain.
For example, when creating a free Wix website, your URL might look like username.wixsite.com/siteaddress. But once you buy your own domain, you can add custom subdomains like shop.yourwebsite.com or blog.yourwebsite.com.
Third-level domains can get longer if you start adding more nodes. You might come across four-level domains like news.bbc.co.uk or even five-level ones like www.village.fairport.ny.us. While it’s rare to see a domain with more than four levels, it’s possible. For more in-depth examples, check out the most popular domain extensions.
How to choose a domain name
With over 349.9 million domains registered and thousands added daily, finding the perfect domain requires creativity, SEO knowledge and foresight. This guide to how to choose a domain name will help you cover your bases. Here are the most important steps to get you started:
Make it easy to type and pronounce: Avoid tricky words, abbreviations or alternate spellings. Test ideas with friends to ensure they’re simple and memorable.
Stay on brand: Your domain should reflect your brand name. If it’s taken, add a keyword or use a domain name generator to find alternatives. Register your domain as soon as you choose your business name.
Choose the right extension: According to a study by GrowthBadger, ".com" is the most memorable and most trusted TLD of them all, but weigh options before settling on one.
Keep it memorable and relatable: Short, catchy names stick. For example, Bhavik Sarkhedi, founder and creative director of Ohh My Brand, shares, "A great domain name has to stick. My current company, OhhMyBrand, plays off the phrase "Ohh my God," which makes it relatable and fun. My first business was called Write Right-straight to the point and easy to recall... All short, all catchy, all under 12 characters."
As Bhavik continues to experience:
"The funny thing is, even though I've sold those companies, people still ping me because they remember the names. That's the magic of keeping it simple, relatable and memorable. If your name has recall value, especially in your industry, it's a game-changer. Short and sharp-that's the rule I swear by."
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Why do domains matter?
A strong domain name helps your website and brand in several ways:
Branding: Establishes your brand’s identity online and makes your site look professional.
Memorability and accessibility: Makes it easier for visitors to find, remember and return to your website.
Trust and credibility: Shows users your site is reliable and builds confidence in your brand. Studies show that 75% of users admit they judge a company’s credibility based on its website design, including its domain name.
Connectivity: The Domain Name System (DNS) ensures users can reach your site seamlessly.
Promotion: Works well on social media, business cards and custom email addresses. Learn more about how to create an email with your domain.
Take the case of Nissan Motors v. Nissan Computer. Nissan Motors had to use “nissanusa.com” after another company had already registered “nissan.com,” showing how important a domain is for branding, trust and user recognition.
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What is a domain name example?
We've put together some of the world's most well-known domain examples, categorized by niche and as proof that the right domain name is essential to the branding of your business and website.
Here are some examples of popular domain names:
harvard.edumit.edu
amazon.com
wix.com
spotify.com
airbnb.com
How to get a domain name
Once you’ve chosen the perfect domain name for your site, it’s time to make it yours and purchase it. There are a few things to keep in mind when figuring out how to register a domain name, including:
Checking if your domain name is available
Choosing the right registrar for your needs
Planning for the long term so your domain stays secure
Let’s take a closer look at how to handle each step.
Search for your domain name
First things first, make sure no one else is using the domain name you want. While you could check manually, it can be a hassle if your top choice is already taken. A domain name search tool saves time and effort by showing you whether your domain is available and suggesting similar options (you can also explore the best domain name generators to help you come up with similar domain names). These tools also give you domain pricing details so you can compare your choices and pick the best one for your site.
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Pick a domain registrar
Once you’ve found the perfect domain name, it’s time to decide where to buy a domain name. Not all domain registrars are created equal–pricing, customer support and extra features like privacy protection and domain management can vary. Keep these points in mind:
Pricing
Domain prices can vary between registrars and the lowest price upfront isn’t always the best long-term deal. Look beyond the first-year cost to avoid unexpected fees later. Comparing these factors helps you understand the real cost of a domain over time not just the promotional price.
Registration price: Many registrars offer tempting first-year discounts. Make sure to check the standard price you’ll pay after the promotional period ends.
Renewal costs: Renewal fees are often higher than the introductory price so it's smart to compare the long-term cost of keeping your domain.
Privacy protection: Some registrars include WHOIS privacy for free while others charge an extra annual fee for it.
Transfer fees: If you think you might move your domain to another registrar down the line, review these costs upfront.
Add-ons and extras: Features like email hosting, DNS management or security services can add to the total price.
Sign up for a Wix Premium plan, and learn how to get a free domain name with a one-year domain name voucher.
Private domain registration
ICANN requires everyone who purchases a domain to provide personal information (including full name, email, address and phone number) that is then made publicly available on a database known as WHOIS. If you’re concerned about privacy or want to minimize the chances of spam and identity theft, you can hide this information using WHOIS privacy protection.
Some domain registrars include WHOIS privacy protection as part of their offering, immediately protecting your personal data when you learn how to buy a domain name, while others offer it as a paid add-on.
Web hosting pairing
Pairing your domain with hosting from the same provider keeps things simple and can save you money. It allows you to manage all site assets within a single platform, thus minimizing the overall cost and headache.
Tip: When you host a site on Wix, you’ll have advanced security monitoring, automatic set-up and enterprise-grade reliability of 99.9% uptime. This helps protect against domain squatting and domain spoofing amongst other cyber threats.
Customer support
The availability of customer support is one of the most overlooked aspects when it comes to finding a domain registrar. If you ever have any issues at 3 am and can’t get a hold of anyone, you’ll kick your past self for not choosing a registrar that offers live customer support 24/7.
Domain age
Domain age refers to the amount of time that a domain name has existed, or, as it sounds, how old it is. You’ll want to know your domain age for the following reasons:
If you take a domain that previously belonged to a different business, it can indicate the business’s age. This can affect brand trust—both good or bad—if the domain has built an associated reputation over time. This also can make it necessary to check domain history.
Older domains may have some SEO benefits since they have had time to build traffic.
You can verify domain trademark claims based on domain age and the date it was originally registered.
Domain email
Some domain registrars’ offerings extend beyond website-focused features. Keep an eye out for additional products and tools that may interest you, as it will make it much easier to connect and manage them through your website.
For example, if you want a business email address that uses your domain name instead of that of a generic mail provider, you should look for a registrar that also offers personalized email addresses.
Bulk purchasing
If you’re planning to expand or launch new brands, buying multiple domains now could save you time and money later. This is especially relevant if you plan to expand your operations to other geographic locations or have a certain product you’d like to promote as a stand-alone brand.
How to keep a domain name secure
Protecting your domain name is important to keep your website safe. Here are some simple tips to help you secure your domain:
Choose a reputable domain registrar: Pick a domain registrar known for solid domain security and great customer service. As Daniel Yeromka, CEO of HostZealot, notes: "A domain seems like a simple thing that you buy and forget. I didn't know that domain registrars might get acquired, or that there might be regulatory changes around domain ownership and enforcement...[If I could do things over now,] I would look at the registrar's stability, their registry policies and any trademark overlaps." (Read Daniel’s advice in our blog on 12 web domain-related questions you're too shy to ask.)
Use a strong password: Create a password that’s at least 12 characters long with a mix of upper and lowercase letters, numbers and symbols.
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): Adding 2FA means you’ll need to enter a code from your phone when logging in, giving you an extra layer of protection.
Keep your contact information updated: Make sure your contact information with your domain registrar is up to date. This will help them to contact you if there is any suspicious activity on your account.
Watch out for phishing emails: Phishing emails are designed to trick you into revealing your personal information, such as your domain registrar account password. Be careful about clicking on links in emails, even if they appear to be from legitimate sources.
Keep your domain registration information private: Domain privacy is critical. Don't share your domain registration information with anyone you don't trust. This includes your domain registrar account password, your domain name and your contact information.
Read also:
Domain vs. URL vs. IP address
It’s easy to mix up a domain name, a URL and an IP address, but each serves a distinct purpose on the internet. Understanding the difference helps you navigate the web more confidently and explains how websites are found and accessed.
Domain name | URL (uniform resource locator) | IP address (internet protocol) | |
Example | |||
Function | A human-friendly address that points to a specific website. | The full web address that points to a specific page or file on a website. | A unique numerical identifier for a device on the internet that allows computers to communicate. |
Relationship | The core part of a URL. | Includes the domain name, the protocol (https://) and the specific path (/about/). | The actual address that the domain name is mapped to by the DNS. |
The domain name is the readable address you type in your browser. The URL is the complete path to a specific page and the IP address is the number your computer uses to find the website behind the scenes. Together they make it possible to navigate the web smoothly.
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Plan ahead by purchasing your domain name
If you’re looking to buy a domain or just curious, you’ve likely realized how important domain names are. The US domain name industry is an 8.1 billion-dollar market that’s still growing, including the lucrative business of domain trading.
Once you register a domain, it’s yours—so long as you renew it annually or within your registrar’s time frame. This makes it crucial to secure the domain name for any business you start. It can be simple, like your name, or highly marketable, like business.com, which sold for $345 million. This practice, known as domain parking, often aims at domain flipping, and it’s more common than you might think.
Consider purchasing additional TLDs you might want in the future to prevent others from taking them—otherwise, you could find yourself paying in the domain name trade.
What is a domain name FAQ
What is ICANN?
The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) oversees all domain registrations, allocates and assigns IP addresses, runs accreditation systems for domain registrars and keeps a centralized database of all domain names and their IPs. The ICANN also has the authority to approve new domain extensions (also known as TLDs), manage them and shut them down if they don’t follow the determined rules. They can also approve domain registrars to manage domain extensions and domain registration.
How do I find my domain name?
Your domain name is the unique web address people use to find your website (e.g., www.yourbusiness.com). If you already own one, you can find it through the domain registrar where you purchased it. Log in to your account there, and you’ll see your domain listed. If you're starting fresh, you can easily choose and purchase a domain through a website builder or domain registrar.
Do I need a domain for a website?
Yes, having a domain is essential if you want people to find your website on the internet. A domain acts as your website’s address, making it easy for visitors to reach you. Some platforms offer free website options with subdomains (e.g., yourbusiness.wix.com), but a custom domain looks more professional and builds trust with your audience.
What is the difference between a website name and a domain name?
A website name is what you call or brand your site—it's how you refer to it publicly, like "Your Business" or "John's Blog." A domain name, on the other hand, is its web address (e.g., www.johnsblog.com). Think of the website name as your site’s identity, while the domain name is the way people access it online.
What is a domain name in computing?
A domain name in computing is a web address used to access websites, making it easier to locate online resources without relying on numerical IP addresses. Beyond websites, the term “domain” can also refer to organizational functions in networking, where it manages grouped resources like user accounts and servers, or in software development, where it defines specific areas of focus such as healthcare app components or database management with domain-specific languages like SQL (structured query language).
What is a domain registry?
A domain registry is the organization that oversees domain name databases and manages all the information related to domain owners. They keep things organized based on different TLDs like .com, .net. or .co.uk. For example, Nominet handles .co.uk extensions in the UK. Registries set the rules for how domain names can be registered and used, making sure everything runs smoothly. They also provide access to domain registrars, like Wix, allowing users to see and register available domain names.
What is a domain in email?
A domain in email is what comes after the "@" symbol in an email address, like "yourbusiness.com" in "info@yourbusiness.com." With Wix, you can create a personalized email address that matches your custom domain, helping your business look professional and trustworthy. This domain not only routes emails to the right servers but also reinforces your brand's identity every time you send a message.
How do I create a domain name?
Start by brainstorming names that are short, memorable and relevant to your brand or niche. Use a domain registrar like Wix, GoDaddy or Namecheap to check availability and register your chosen name. Make sure it’s easy to spell and pronounce so it sticks with visitors.
Do I need an LLC for a domain?
No, you don't need an LLC to register a domain. You can buy a domain as an individual, but forming an LLC offers legal protection and credibility if you're running a business. It really comes down to your business setup not your domain ownership.
Can I get a domain for free?
Yes, some platforms offer free domains, usually as a subdomain (like yoursite.wixsite.com). For a professional look and more control, buying a custom domain is recommended—it’s affordable and avoids the limitations of free subdomains.
Who actually owns a domain name?
The person or entity that registers the domain through a registrar owns it for the period of registration. Ownership is maintained as long as you keep renewing it and follow the registrar's rules.
Can I run my website without a domain?
Technically you can use a platform’s free subdomain to run your website. But, a custom domain adds credibility and trust and makes it much easier for people to find and remember your site.
What to avoid in a domain name?
Avoid long, complicated or hard-to-spell names, numbers and hyphens that confuse visitors. Steer clear of trademarks or names that could infringe on other brands to prevent legal issues. Keep it simple, catchy and relevant to your business.
