Considerations when registering a domain name
Are all domains the same? Not necessarily!
Domain Names
What is a domain name?
A domain name is a unique identity on the Internet that forms the basis of your website address and email addresses.
It is registered under a ‘top level domain’ (TLD) such as .COM or ‘country code top level domain’ (ccTLD) such as .UK.
Who can register a domain name?
.UK domains can be registered by individuals, businesses or organisations regardless of whether they are based in the UK or not. Other popular TLDs including .COM and .NET can be registered by anyone to. Some domains such as .IE or .EU have residency or other requirements which limits who can register them.
What is the benefit of registering a .UK domain?
- .UK domains may rank higher for searches made in the UK
- 4 in 5 people in the UK have a preference for websites with a .UK domain when searching or buying online
- There are no complex residency requirements
- Governed by English Law – bear with us – this simplifies matters in the case of disputes.
How do I register a .UK domain?
Registering a .UK domain is quick and easy with iridis, the time consuming part is choosing one! A new .UK domain can be registered in a matter of minutes when you make secure payment via Credit or Debit Card. Why wait? Check if your domain available.
Do I need to buy hosting if I register a domain?
Registering your domain does not require you to buy hosting at the same time. As domains are registered on a ‘first come, first served’ basis it is important to secure your domain before someone else registers it. However, after registering the domain you can ‘park’ it for as long as you have registered it. ‘parking’ a domain is a term used to describe leaving your domain dormant until needed.
Registrars and Hosting Companies
Are all registrars the same?
There are many registrars to choose from located in many different countries around the world that can assist with registering a domain name. Prices will vary depending upon the period the domain is registered for and likely reflects the level of service you will receive.
Can I host my website with a different company to the one I registered my domain with?
iridis provides pricing transparency so you can clearly see the price you will pay to register the domain on your behalf. This is important to ensure that you legally own the domain and that you are free to transfer a domain without any hidden fees.
iridis is an ‘accredited’ Nominet registrar that means we commit to providing higher standards of data quality and customer service. In practical terms this means we provide greater transparency and do the things that others may not such as having the appropriate business insurance and registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).
Are all hosting companies the same?
There are thousands of hosting companies to choose from and at first they may all appear to offer the same service. However, hosting companies will differ in terms of the types of hosting they offer, the currency they bill in and where they are located.
Should I choose the cheapest hosting?
Choosing the right host for your domain depends upon many factors. Cost of hosting is important but it should not be the only factor when selecting the best provider for your needs. Low cost hosting may be attractive, tempting £0.99 offers look great but is it a short term offer which will increase significantly or if it is the standard price will your web host be here next month?
Where should I host my website?
The physical location of your hosting company matters both in terms of receiving timely support but also proximity to your customers. If your website is targeting an audience in the UK or Europe choosing a host with UK servers to serve your website should ensure faster responses time – or lower latency to use the technical term. Hosting in the UK provides an optimal location due to great worldwide connectivity.