Introduction
Before you decide to purchase a domain there are a few things you need to do. The purchase process in itself isn’t difficult. Many places offer domain names you can purchase. Some domains will be new and some may be previously owned.
Step 1
When you are prepared to purchase a domain, you really need to make sure you have chosen a domain name that is specific to the content on your website. You also need to be prepared to purchase a .com or .net. Those are the easiest extensions for potential and returning visitors to remember.
Step 2
Once you have chosen a domain name, you can go to several places to complete your purchase. If the domain name is available and is not currently owned by someone else, it’s best to buy the actual .com as well as any domains that may be suggested. Some of the common places that you can purchase a domain from are:
While those are common places you can purchase a domain, those few choices are not everywhere that offer domains for sale.
Step 3
Sometimes you will find a domain name that can be purchased from the owner. The websites that sell domains will sometimes have a list of domains that have expired registrations. If you find a domain name that you want that is up for sell, you can contact the owners and inquire as to whether that domain is actually for sale. Don't begin your correspondence by making an immediate offer.
Step 4
Once you find the website that you want to do business with, it will be time to make your domain purchase. You will first be entering the domain name you have chosen to make sure it’s available. Once you determine the name(s) are available, you need to add the chosen name(s) to your cart.
Step 5
When the chosen domain names are added to your cart, you will proceed to the registration process. The registration process is pretty easy overall. You will be prompted to enter your name, address, telephone number and email address. When you complete the personal information requested it will be time for you to select how long you want to register the domain name for. When you first purchase a domain name, it might be a good idea to begin with a year long registration.
Step 6
While you are in the domain purchase process you will also need to make the appropriate selections regarding your domain privacy and protection. After you make the proper choices it is time to select the package options you want. You will be given choices on how many email addresses you desire, the hosting choices offered and storage amounts. Review all of the information in your cart and proceed to the payment process. If you have any promotional codes, there should be a link that will allow you to enter those. You will then be ready to review the information entered and will be creating a password. When you complete that, proceed to the payment screen. You can generally pay for your domain purchase with a credit or debit card, gift card, check or through PayPal. The choice is yours. Once you enter your payment information and submit the payment, you will be directed to a confirmation screen. Once your order is confirmed, you will be clarified as the new owner of the domain you had chosen.
Tips
When you are looking to purchase a domain name, make sure you choose a name that is easily understood, easy to remember and corresponds with the content on your site.
