What is a domain name?

What is a domain name?

Every server on the internet is reached by a numeric IP address, such as 185.12.34.56. Numbers like that are hard to remember, so domain names give each site a readable label instead, for example yourbusiness.co.uk.

How it works

When someone types your domain into a browser, their device asks the Domain Name System (DNS) which IP address the name belongs to. DNS replies with the address of your hosting server and the browser connects to it. This lookup takes milliseconds and happens behind the scenes.

What you get when you register a domain

Registering a domain gives you the right to use that name for the registration period (usually one year or more) and to decide where it points. It does not include a website or email on its own. To use it you need:

  • Hosting for the website files and mailboxes
  • DNS records pointing the domain at that hosting (we set these up automatically when your domain uses our nameservers)

The parts of a domain

  • Top-level domain (TLD): the ending, such as .uk, .co.uk or .com
  • Second-level domain: the name you chose, such as yourbusiness
  • Subdomain: an optional prefix, such as shop.yourbusiness.co.uk

Keeping your domain

Domains must be renewed before they expire. If a domain lapses, your website and email stop working and, after a grace period, someone else may register it. Keep the contact email on your account up to date so renewal reminders reach you.

Need help? Raise a ticket through our help centre or from the Support menu in your Managed Web client portal, and our team will be happy to assist.

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