On a basic level, domain names are important because the internet’s naming scheme isn’t very effective. Each computer connected to the web has an internet protocol commonly referred to as “IP address.” It’s a string of four unique numbers separated by periods, for example: “xxx.xxx.x.x”
Each website on the internet is connected to a hosting server (a computer). These hosting servers have different IP addresses, one of which is assigned to your website. Since remembering the IP address of your favorite websites isn’t easy, a group of computer scientists created a “domain name system” (DNS).
A domain name system gives a unique identity(name) to each IP address on the web. For example, if you paste “173.194.203.106“ in your browser, you’ll be directed to Google.
But domain names are far more than just technical shortcuts. A memorable domain name can create a unique web experience for your visitors instead of getting lost in cyberspace.
Domain names add credibility to your business
The default domain name you get from an ISP or a hosting site is www.yourisp.com. This name doesn’t inspire confidence as opposed to a domain name that:
- Addresses the user’s need at first glance: www.makemywedding.co.uk
- Mentions your services: www.wpbeginner.com
- Defines your business: www.microsoft.com
You present your business as an authoritative figure by adding your name or addressing your target audience’s needs in your domain name.
Plus, there are many less than reputable sites on the web, and you want to distinguish your business from them so that your customers can trust you with their money. If you are not willing to pay for a registered domain name, why would customers believe in your product or service?
How domain names can help establish your brand
If your domain name matches your company name, it’ll be easier for customers to remember and re-visit your site. Moreover, memorable domain names are easy to pass along via word-of-mouth marketing. Nevertheless, the type of domain extension and when it should be used also play an important role in establishing your brand
Types of domain name extensions and when they should be used
Everyone knows that .com is an unrestricted domain extension for individuals, companies, and commercial enterprises. But did you know there are 280 different domain extensions? Each domain extension has an important role in establishing your brand identity. They do so by associating your business with the country you are operating in or with your industry.
The basics of using domain extension to your benefit fall down to the type of business you own.
- .edu is used for educational businesses, mainly schools, colleges, and universities (stanford.edu)
- .org is used by established organizations (wikipedia.org)
- .info is used by businesses built around the idea of sharing information (aboutads.info)
- .ca, .br, .us are country code top-level domains that can be used by a business or an individual depending on the regulations of that country
Among all domain extensions, country code top-level domains (ccTLD) serve as proof of your link to a place. For instance, .br domains are highly popular in Brazil, because locals value .br domains more than .com or .org. Moreover, ccTLDs boost local SEO efforts increasing your chances of ranking on Google’s first page.
Wrapping it up
Domain names are important because the internet’s naming scheme isn’t effective. DNS gives IP addresses a unique identity, making it easier for web visitors to memorize their favorite website’s name.
But domain names also extend your brand and play an important role in establishing its identity. For instance, If you operate in the education sector and have a .edu domain, your business will sound more credible.
Similarly, ccTLD’s also add credibility to your brand by associating your business to the country code domain. As a result, your local SEO is improved, and your site ranks better in local searches.
