We often decide that we want to stand out by creating a quirky or odd domain name. This can be a success but in some instances, it leads to failure. The name needs to mean something and it needs to represent your site professionally. People are simply not going to take a page seriously when the name is similar to some high school joke. The domain name represents who you are and what you offer. It is the first thing anybody sees and everything about it need to be professional, protected and cherished as it is all that you are and want to be. This article will give you some ideas on how to treat the domain name as your prized possession as well as secure it for a long time.

Never buy the domain with the host company as they in the end hold all the cards while you have nothing. Purchase your domain straight from the source ensuring you own it, registered it and control it. This is extremely important for anyone hosting a site. It is your asset not theirs so maintain control by doing it on your own at one of the registration and purchase sites. not through your website host.

Always purchase the rights for multiple years. It is too easy for someone to lock in an alert when the rights are coming due and snatch it out from under you because you forgot to renew it and got their five minutes too late. Again, this is an asset and should be held for as long as you can do so.

You certainly want to snag the .com domain however it is always a good idea to purchase the .net’s and .org’s as well. Too many sites have been copied in name and thrown on another domain by scammers wishing to grab a piece of your pie. This loses customers when they choose the wrong site and don’t like what is offered. It never hurts to have the big domains locked in for another reason, all roads lead to you which is what you want to begin with.

Always make a note to pay for your names when it comes time for renewal. You will be given notice so don’t wait until the last minute. Otherwise, as mentioned above, someone could sneak in the back door and buy it out from under you and all of your hard work is gone.

The domain name is the key to your success so not only should it be professional it should be easy to remember. Avoid using hyphens and dashes if at all possible if the name you like is taken. Most people won’t remember them so go back to the drawing board and find a new name that represents you perfectly that the visitors will remember.

As stated earlier, the domain is your world and you need to take the proper steps to protect it and control ownership of it. Just remember that it is an asset in today’s society and others may want it. Also, remember the consumer or visitor wants to easily jump to your page so make it memorable and professional. If you follow these simple steps, then you can ensure the rights remain yours and those you wish to reach out to can find you without a problem at all.