Domain Tips
One of the first issues to handle when starting a Web site is
the address, or domain name. This page offers some background
information on the naming system as well as tips for choosing
a name.
The Internet uses Internet Protocol (IP) addresses to locate
computers across the network. IP addresses are strings of four
numbers separated by dots, for example 000.000.00.00.
Because IP addresses would be hard to remember, and because they
can change frequently, the Domain Name System was developed. Domain
names, such as "insightimagery.com" are really just
shortcuts to IP addresses.
Specialized computers on the Internet, called domain name servers,
keep track of domain names and IP addresses and route all the
assorted messages and packets of data on the 'Net to the right
machines.
There's a standardized system for domain names, including a few
hard and fast rules than cannot be broken.
- Length a name may be up to 22 characters before the ".com."
- Characters a name may contain letters, numbers, and hyphens
(-), but no other characters or spaces. It may not end or begin
with a hyphen.
- Capitalization is irrelevant.
- Modifiers a few charaters, such as slashes (/) or periods
(.) are reserved for specific uses in the naming system.
The last portion of the address, or top level domain, signifies
the type of organization using the name. A few common top level
domains are listed below.
- .ca............Canada
- .com.........US commercial
- .edu.........Four-year higher educational institution
- .gov..........US government
- .ja.............Japan
- .mil...........US military
- .net...........Network (often Internet Service Providers)
- .no............Norway
- .org...........Non-profit group
- .us............US state or local agencies
The registration of various types of top level domains is restriced
to appropriate users, for example a private day care center could
not register it's site as ".edu."
Choosing a domain name can be tricky. A great many names are
already registered to others, and turnover is low. It's best to
choose a name (22 character limit) that reflects the name or purpose
of the organization without being vague or misleading. Generally
shorter names are easier to remember.
Names can be reserved only by registering them. They do not
have to be actually put into service, however a server address
must be provided in order to register. Once a name is registered
it's fee cannot be transferred to another domain name.
Domain names are not owned, they are registered for a period
of time, which can be indefinite. The relationship between licensed
trademarks and domain names is a new area of law that is not yet
entirely defined. Disagreements over domain names are resolved
through civil action.
Disputes regarding domain names
Domain name disputes between private parties are resolved through
civil processes, which can include litigation. InterNIC, the body
that oversees ".com" top level domains has a dispute
policy that addresses many common issues.
For more detailed information on ".com" domains, check:
Domain
Name Registration FAQs
Domain
Name Dispute Policy
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