Glossary
Domain Name
Your website's address on the internet — the text people type into a browser to reach your site (e.g., yourcompany.com).
Domain Name
A domain name is your website's unique address on the internet. It is what people type into a browser to find your site — for example, yourcompany.com.
How Domain Names Work
When you type a domain name into a browser:
- The browser asks a DNS (Domain Name System) server what IP address that domain points to
- The DNS server responds with your web host's IP address
- Your browser connects to that server and loads your website
Domain Name Cost
| Extension | Registration | Annual Renewal |
|---|---|---|
| .com | $10–$15 | $12–$18 |
| .net | $12–$18 | $15–$20 |
| .io | $35–$60 | $35–$60 |
| .ai | $70–$100 | $70–$100 |
See our full Domain Name Cost Guide for registrar comparisons.
Tips for Choosing a Domain Name
- Get a .com — still the most trusted extension
- Keep it short — under 15 characters ideal
- Avoid hyphens — hard to say, easy to forget
- Check trademarks — search USPTO before registering
- Register for 2+ years — small SEO signal, protects your investment
Related Articles
- Domain Name Cost Guide — registrar pricing compared
- Web Hosting Guide — the service that goes alongside your domain
- How Much Does a Website Cost in 2026? — all website costs in one place
- Website Maintenance Cost Calculator — budget domain renewals alongside hosting