Register Domain Name Alternatives

A Web Hosting Article Contributed by Frances Rhea

Register Your Domain Name with Alternate Names

When you decide to register, if your first domain name choice is not available, check the information listed for the domain name. You can then contact the person listed as the owner to see if they are willing to sell it. If they want to sell the domain, chances are that they will charge more than the original registration fee.

An easier alternative is to register a variation of your first domain name choice.

One good way to get around a previously registered domain name is to add the word online. Or add your location to attract local customers.

You could also try registering a local domain name. Most countries andsome states now have extensions available for registration.

With a little creativity you may find that your alternative beats your original choice to register.

Once you have created a list of alternatives for your online business, see which ones your friends and colleagues like best. Make sure these names can be easily pronounced and spelled. Then, recreate the list with the domain names in order of popularity.

When You Register a Domain Name Consider Spelling Mistakes

You should consider the mistakes people might make when entering your web site address. Also how your domain name sounds when you tell them over the phone to a customer. Explaining any special characters, abbreviations, and/or spelling is awkward. Make a list of any possible mistakes you can think of, and register additional domain names that use these mistakes.

Register Multiple Versions of Your Name Domain

Register any domain name variations related to your company name. Register common misspellings. Register any domain people might use to find you. The cost is minimal when registering multiple domain names.

Avoid Trademarked Names

You cannot register names already registered as copyright (for example, McDonalds). Domain names are unique and cannot be duplicated. Do not register domain names that are like your competition or famous trademarks. Businesses have lost any right to a registered domain names if it conflicted with an existing trademarks for an off-line company.

Use a Metaphor When You Register Your Domain

If your .dot com business does not have a name, you can make up whatever you choose. This is where using a metaphor comes in. Remember though that if your web site is the primary tool for your business, the company name must be the company domain name. If you use other methods for your business such as newspaper ads, selling to individuals or local businesses, then you can choose what you want.

As an example, my daughter sells necklaces on the beach which she makes from sea shells. She does not have a business name. If she wanted she could register a domain with beachbeauties or seasidecreations.

Do not limit yourself. Ask friends and co-workers what they think. Let them make suggestions. It never hurts to have too many domain name choices. You never know which combination will be the winning choice.