Domain names

Example domains

What's in a name? If you are talking about the Internet, then the answer is everything. A domain name is your company identity on the Web. When you register a domain name, your website will become accessible at "www.company.com" and you can be e-mailed as "you@company.com"

Global domain names

Top level domains, or global domains, allow your business to create a truly global image. Typical examples can include:

  • .com  (companies)
  • .biz  (businesses)
  • .info  (information providers)
  • .net  (networks)
  • .org  (organisations)
  • .name  (private individuals)

A global domain addresses can be useful for multinational companies who wish to create a global brand name. It can also reduce the overhead incurred as a result of maintaining a website for each country in which you do business.

Country code level domains

Second level domains, or country code domains, offer your business an identity on the Web that has an association with a particular country or region. Typical United Kingdom examples can include:

  • .co.uk  (companies)
  • .ltd.uk  (limited companies)
  • .plc.uk  (public limited companies)
  • .net.uk  (networks)
  • .org.uk  (organisations)
  • .me.uk  (private individuals)

This type of address can be useful when trying to create / improve awareness of your business within a particular geographical area, and can help you to create a more personal relationship with your customers.

Alternative domains

As the name suggests, these second level domains offer your business an alternative domain address, and can be useful when the traditional top and second level names have already been taken. Typical examples can include:

  • .uk.com  (companies)
  • .uk.net  (networks)