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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.

 

How domains work

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.

 

Domain name conventions

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.

 

.com .org .net .mil etc...

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 the best name

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.

 

Reserving a name

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.

 

Copyright and trademark limitations

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.

 

Additional references

For more detailed information on ".com" domains, check:
Domain Name Registration FAQs
Domain Name Dispute Policy


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