Domain Names

Frequently asked questions about domain names

• What is a domain name?

  A domain name is the name of your website or your website address. It's the place where users will find you on the Internet and it's unique to you or your business. Each domain name is made up of two parts. For example, our own domain name is websites-madesimple.co.uk, the first part is the name we chose 'names' and the second part is the extension 'co.uk'. Before domain names, web addresses were made up of a long string of numbers.

• Why do I need a domain?

  Your domain name is your unique identity. Domain names are used by businesses and individuals who plan on having an online presence. If you want to have a website or even a business email address, you need to have a domain name. This offers you the perfect stepping stone to start promoting yourself online and also protects you if you have a registered business and want to avoid anyone buying your matching domain.

• What is an extension?

  An extension is the last part or ending of a domain name. They are often referred to as TLDs (Top-Level Domains), the domain root or suffix. Some popular TLDs include .com, .co.uk, .net, .org. There are many categories of extensions such as ccTLDs and new gTLDs..

  ccTLDs are country code specific so they represent a particular country e.g. .co.uk for UK and .ie for Ireland. New gTLDs are often more practical and easy to remember e.g. .photography, .guru, .ninja, .london, .legal, .sucks etc. Some businesses and brands register their domain name in a number of extensions to ensure they are fully protected.

• What is DNS?

  The Domain Name System (DNS) is like a directory for all websites on the Internet. It converts text-based domain names into a set of numbers known as Internet Protocol (IP addresses). By converting text to numbers, machines are able to locate websites based on their IP address and users can continue to find websites via domain names.

• What are new gTLDs or new domain extensions?

  gTLDs are generic Top-Level Domains, also known as new gTLDs or nTLDs. These extensions are practical and memorable and offer an alternative to the more traditional suffixes such as .com, .net and .org.

  New gTLDs are commonly used to describe the function of a website e.g. an actor could choose .actor for his website or a fitness instructor could use .fitness. There are hundreds of new gTLDs to choose from including .london, .cymru, .wales, .diet, .farm, .website, .love, .education and many more. Find out more and choose your ideal domain name today.

• Who can register a domain name?

  Anyone... but some extensions have registration rules or restrictions. For example, you can only register a .ltd.uk if you are a limited company and the domain is an exact match to your company name. Most extensions like .com, .co.uk and many more, are open for everyone to register. If you're uncertain about the rules, you can check the information icon next to each extension in our search results.

• Can I buy multiple domain names?

  Yes, you can! As long as the domain isn’t already owned by somebody else, it’s possible to purchase multiple domains with different extensions for the same business name. As an example, we own websites-madesimple.uk and we forward it to our primary domain name websites-madesimple.co.uk.

  Buying different versions of your domain name can help protect your brand and eliminate the chances of anyone else buying the domain if it is available. You also have an increased chance of gaining more website visitors by redirecting all your domains to one website, so potential customers can reach your site regardless of which extension they use.

• Why should I choose Websites MadeSimple™?

  We’re here to help your business grow. Your online adventure starts with your domain name, which is why we have a huge range to choose from, with great offers to get you started for less.

  Once you’re on board you can enjoy unrivalled UK based support and freebies with all domain names you buy. Not to mention, access to loads of support articles and business tips to help you on your journey!