Considering Purchasing a Domain?
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When you sign onto the internet, what's the first thing you do? Log into your site manager and begin editing your site, or do you do something different? Do you have a site, and if you do, do you enjoy editing/owning it? Most people, who have a free-hosted large site (50 pages or more) or used to have one, wanted/wants a domain. Like me, for example.

First, let me ask you a few questions. Have you ever considered getting a domain? Do you even know what one is? Or have you already got one? This article is the basic guide to getting a domain name, things to remember and some other interesting things that may help you.

I will start off by helping you when/if you are considering getting a domain name. Here are a few points to remember when considering a domain: Don't go straight into thinking up a domain name and buying. You have to consider things such as 'Am I serious about this site?' and 'Do I have a decent amount of hits and a continuous flow of visitors?' etc.
Are you dedicated about your site? How long have you been working on it for, and have you enjoyed it?
If no one goes to your site, then spend some time getting continuous visitors. This could take longer than expected as you need content.

So everything seems OK � you have visitors, content, are happily owning a successful site? Great, now you are ready to find where and if you can host a site. First, find a good host. This is not something that you can just type into Google and pick a random link. You have to consider the needs of your site � do you want to use FTP to save time, or can you manage without it? Does your host allow greymatter and any other PHP clients, will you even need it? Can you manage with ads on your site? Do you want custom forms on your site, and will your host allow it? Another major point to consider is can you upload programs or MP3/large files and will it have an effect on the bandwidth? These, as well as other needs for your site are important to think about. The main need of a domain is it allows you to use FTP, Pearl etc and generally looks more professional. Is this all your site needs, and does your host provide this kind of plan? Don't go with a host that has one user, go with a well-known company. Don't believe everything you see, try to imagine your site if it didn't have that (incase it doesn't) would it still be OK? Ask around with people using that host for help. Make sure you check everything thoroughly before you buy in case there are any hidden costs even if you have asked and them seem nice!

Next step to take into consideration, before you go ahead and buy the domain plan is can you afford it? Usually, cheapest is not best, it's what suits your site that matters. But remember, you must be able to sacrifice some things that you don't need � like FTP, if you're used to manual uploading. Asking advice from people who have domains is helpful here. Make sure there are no 'hidden' costs, or expiry dates. So, you have decided on what your site needs, rather than what makes it looks fancy. Now you are ready to buy!

Before you buy: