Each domain name is created for a specific purpose and message to people conducting searches for online websites.  Domain names are each assigned a specific IP or Internet Protocol address, which is translated by the Domain Name System or DNS, turning it into actual words.  For a DNS label, there are digits, hyphenations, and letters located between dots, such as .org, .com, .edu and .net.

• Top Level – The end of each domain is known as the top level, which is where the .org, .com, .edu, and .net come into play.  In addition, territory codes can be added when and where needed, which would add a two-digit character for a specific country.
• Second Level – Next is the second level, which is placed to the left of the .org, .com, .edu, or .net.
• Third Level – Finally, this level of a domain go to the left of the second level domain.

With the .net type of domains, it falls in the fourth place for the different types of domain extensions that people register.  Even so, most experts consider the .net as the World Wide Web’s backbone.  The reason is that .net domains have the most top level domains in the terms of computers connected to the Internet and the number of hosts.  In breaking the .net down, it accounts for 44% of all domain strings.  Although most people think of .com as being the most powerful and it is the most common, the .net domain actually ranks highest.

Initially, the .net domain was developed for providers, often associated with some type of technical aspect.  For this reason, it is common to see websites using a .net domain being those associated with hosting or programming.  However, companies and individuals who register a .com website are now finding the advantage in securing a coordinating .net as well, which gives them more visibility on the internet.

For resolution, the .net domain has 31% of all page views and for B2C (business to consumer), the .net accounts for 32%.  Therefore, this simply domain string is quite important.  Now, when creating an online website, the domain name is the most important factor to consider.  Initially, a developer will start with an idea and begin to create the website around that but after the first stages of development are complete, he or she needs to start thinking about the domain name.

There are some very important things to consider when choosing a .com, .org, .edu, or .net domain starting with making it easy for the customer.  Creating domain names that are too long, those with hyphenations, or quirky names are easily forgotten.  Therefore, it is critical to choose a domain name that customers will remember and most importantly, one that will be associated with the business or organization.  Other considerations for a domain, using the .net as an example, include:

• Spelling and Short – The .net domain needs to be correctly spelled and short while still connecting to the business.  Now, if the name of the business or organization is something that people might commonly misspell, and then a second .net domain name could be created with the incorrect spelling but used only to redirect people to the correct site.
• Specialties – While domain names can have hyphenations, letters, numbers, etc, we recommend that the name be kept as simple and relevant as possible.
• Multiple Extensions – When registering a .net domain, people can also choose to register a .com or other extension, again to increase visibility of the website.
• Hosting – It is critical to choose a solid and reputable hosting service, one that will provide not only redundant hosting services, but also a company that has a number of in-house programs such as search engine submission.
• Email – Whenever possible, choose a hosting service for the .net domain that also offers a coordinating email address, which creates a highly professional look and feel to the website while making email easy for customers to remember.

The goal with any .net domain name is to create an authentic and professional presence.  The best solution would be to choose something that is again, easy to find and remember, but also something that sets the company apart from the competition.  Today, the process of creating websites, choosing a hosting solution, and registering a .com, .org, or .net domain has never been easier and more affordable.

The process is typically very fast but also one of the most important aspects of creating any online business, regardless of size of the product/service being sold.  One of the most common mistakes seen is people quickly throwing a site together without giving full consideration to all the important aspects that make it cohesive.  The best option is to put a plan together from the start, going through the process of finding a good hosting company and then registering a powerful .net domain.

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