Tips for choosing domain names

Choosing an domain name is a big decision, one that you and your business or organisation may be living with for a long time to come! 

The following are some tips and guidelines to consider when selecting an Internet domain name.

Registering your business name as a domain

If you haven't done so yet, be sure to register the domain name equivalent of your business name as soon as possible - even if you intend to use a different domain name for your actual web site. 

The reason for this is that some people, known as "cybersquatters", make a career from registering other organisation and businesses names and then trying to sell the domain name to the business (or someone else) at an exorbitant price! 

A competitor or disgruntled customer may also set up a site under your business name that may reflect poorly on your business or organisation.

While cybersquatting and this form of anti-competitive behaviour is illegal, it can be a lengthy process to regain control over the name through legal channels and depending on the circumstances, may not always be successful.

Australian businesses primarily doing business in Australia should always at the very least register the .com.au, net.au and .com version of their names and should also consider registering domain names associated with their products and events for the same reasons as mentioned above.

Associations, non-profit organisations and other groups may find another domain extension more suitable; .e.g .org.au. We'll discuss Internet domain name extensions later in this article.

Don't have a business name yet?

If you're just starting up and haven't settled on a business name yet, it's a great opportunity to ensure you can register a domain name you like that can also be used as a business name. With the Internet playing such an important role in business these days, don't ever underestimate just how much of a difference a good domain name can make to your sales.

Generic word domain names and their benefits 

Finding a good domain name that's not already registered can be quite a challenge; particularly if generic words are involved, but it's well worth the effort.

It's worthwhile considering registering a name containing generic words related to your products and services, as it is easier for people to remember, but it will also have greater resale value if you should choose to sell your business and/or web site in the future. Additionally, generic words in an Internet domain name, whether hyphenated or not, can help you be found on search engines.

Don't have your heart set on any one name, but make a list of possibilities. It's a good idea to use a domain WHOIS application as you come up with ideas to determine whether a name has been taken or better still, registrars combine a domain search and register function to make life simpler. Just typing an address into your browser will not be an accurate way to determine if a domain name is already registered as the vast majority of names currently registered are not in use. 

Watch out for trademarks and other conflicts

Here's a very important tip. It's wise to check whether the name you are registering may infringe on someone else's trademark or business name - usually a search on Google will reveal this or try searching the ABN registry. 

However, generic terms cannot be trademarked to the point of the exclusion of others using the word combinations - so these sorts of domain names are safe to register. 

Since generic one word domain names are virtually impossible to locate now, try two or three word combinations that are strongly related to your products and services.

A domain name should be short and simple

A domain name should be easy to remember, easy to relay to someone over the telephone and should also be as brief as possible. 

Domain name registration vs. domain name hosting

Many people are under the impression that registering a domain name also includes web site hosting. It is important to understand that domain registration and web hosting are two completely separate services; but are often offered by the same service provider.

Covering your bases

You may also wish to register an abbreviation of your trading name, add a prefix or a suffix, or include a hyphen (-). As mentioned, also consider registering additional domain names that reflect your brands, products, services, venue, events, activities, professions, and/or trademarks. If you have a brand name that is commonly misspelt, it is recommended that you also register the misspelling as a domain name and redirect it to your main website.

More on domain name extensions

Aside from the Australia specific .au extensions, there are all sorts of extensions available now. The better known and recognised of the non-Australian versions are .com, .net, .org, .info and .biz. Here's some additional information and tips relating to each, plus relevant guidelines. 

.com, .net, .org, .info, and .biz

.com, .net, .org, .info and .biz domain names can be registered by any organisation or individual anywhere in the world, with .com having the best recognition. Should your preferred domain name be available in the .com domain name space it would be wise to secure it as soon as practicable while it is still available.

Search for and register your .com, .net, .org, .info or .biz Internet domain choice now.

.com.au and/or .net.au 

To be eligible for a com.au or net.au domain name, registrants must be:

• an Australian registered company; or
• trading under a registered business name in any Australian State or Territory; or
• an Australian partnership or sole trader; or
• a foreign company licensed to trade in Australia; or
• an owner of an Australian Registered Trade Mark; or
• an applicant for an Australian Registered Trade Mark 1 ; or
• an association incorporated in any Australian State or Territory; or
• an Australian commercial statutory body. 

Search and register a .com.au or .net.au Internet domain name today.

.org.au and/or .asn.au 

Available for registration by "non-commercial organisations" only.

To be eligible for a org.au or .asn.au domain name, the registrant must be;

• an Australian incorporated association
• an Australian political party
• an Australian Trade Union or organisation under Workplace Relations Act 1966
• an Australian sporting or special interest club.

Search for and register your .org.au or .asn.au domain name selection now.

.id.au

To be eligible for an id.au domain name, registrants must be:

• an Australian citizen; or
• an Australian resident.

Search for and register your .id.au Internet domain name choice now.
   

And that's about all there is to choosing good domain names that will not only help secure your business reputation online but also help you be found via search engines, which in turn will help you increase your sales or leads! Enjoy the name choosing journey - make a start right now by accessing this domain name search and registration tool!