Domain Name Registrars: Everything You Need to Know 

Starting a small business’s online journey can be complex and full of challenges—especially during its early stages. Domain name registrars play a huge role in providing these businesses with ease to kickstart an online platform. 

In this article, let’s look closer and discuss the role of a domain registrar in establishing an online presence. 

What is a domain name registrar?  

A domain name registrar is an accredited company that manages domain name registrations—allowing individuals, businesses, and organizations to secure unique web addresses for their websites. 

Registrars are often a one-stop solution for building an online identity. This is because, aside from selling domain names, most registrars offer additional services like web and email hosting, privacy protection, and many more.

The Rs of domain ownership 

There are several key players in the domain ecosystem, known as the Four Rs. One of them is the registrar, like Domain.com. But we’ll focus on the remaining three below. 

• Registry. It is the master database of all registered domain names. The domain registry establishes and maintains records of domain name extensions. This helps ensure that each domain name is unique from one another. However, you cannot register your record directly to a registry. The registry lets the registrars handle the sale and registration of domain names.  

• Reseller. Resellers are companies or individuals that sell domain names on behalf of a registrar. They often buy domain names in bulk at a discount and resell them for a lower price. 

• Registrant. A domain name registrant is the end user of a domain. The ones who register a domain name for their website. 

Domain registrars and DNS 

The Domain Name System (DNS) translates domain names to computer-friendly IP addresses. It is like a phonebook where you can contact your friend through their name. The DNS, on the other hand, lets you type domain names into your browser to visit a site. 

But what role does a domain registrar play in this process?  

As organizations who access your domain, they play a crucial role in keeping domain records secure.  

Your DNS records are responsible for how your website or email is routed. Your nameserver information directs DNS queries to the correct DNS servers. Registrars keep these records safe by providing security layers to your domain, such as two-factor authentication (2FA), domain locking, and data encryption.  

Additionally, registrars also play an important role in your DNS management. They provide domain owners with the tools they need to control their DNS settings. This is important, especially when redirecting one domain to another.

How does a domain name registrar protect your privacy 

Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) requires every person registering a domain name to provide WHOIS information, including name, contact information, and business’s physical address. This ensures transparency and accountability, and helps resolve issues like cybercrime investigations, domain ownership verification, and copyright disputes. 

However, the WHOIS data is accessible to the public, making you a target for cybercrimes. Cybercriminals use this opportunity for malicious purposes, like phishing attacks, domain hijacking, and identity theft. 

Fortunately, most domain registrars provide security tools and protocols to ensure your safety. For example, Domain.com offers Domain Privacy Protection to its customers. This protects every registrant’s identity by replacing personal details found in the public WHOIS database. This way, cybercriminals won’t know who you are, where you live, and how to contact you.

What makes a good domain name registrar?  

Domain registrars go beyond selling domain names. They also offer tools and services that help you build a strong online presence. Here are the qualities that make a good domain name registrar. 

Offers user-friendly dashboard 

You’ll feel demotivated if you’re managing your domain names on a cluttered platform. A good domain registrar must be able to provide an easy-to-navigate dashboard that allows users to quickly update DNS records, set up redirects, and manage domain renewals seamlessly. 

Provides security features  

Safeguarding your domain name is a must to ensure a functioning and malware-free website. A reliable registrar offers security features like Domain Privacy Protection, Domain Expiration Protection, and two-factor authentication (2FA). This helps protect your domain name from unauthorized changes and shield your website from potential threats. 

Features ICANN accreditation 

You can always trust ICANN accredited registrars. Because ICANN ensures that registrars follow strict standards to protect and provide transparency to customers. Choosing an ICANN-accredited registrar gives you peace of mind that your domain and business are in good hands. 

Provides excellent customer support  

Domain-related issues can be frustrating, especially for those who are less tech-savvy. A good registrar provides 24/7 support via multiple channels. They also offer an extensive knowledge base and helpful blog articles. Registrars with responsive and knowledgeable support can help limit website downtime.

How to choose the best domain registrar  

Choosing a domain name registrar that suits your specific needs is a must. But with so many registrars out there, finding the right one can be confusing and overwhelming. Here are a few actionable tips to help you pick the right domain registrar for your website. 

Understand your needs 

Think about what you need, including what you might need. Consider your budget and the type of website you’re building. This way, you’ll know what to look for in terms of services and pricing. 

Different registrars cater to different websites and audiences. For example, Domain.com is an excellent fit for individuals, small businesses, and startups looking for an all-in-one solution, whether for a portfolio or an eCommerce website. 

Understanding your needs prevents you from overspending on unnecessary features. It’ll also prevent you from being stuck with a registrar that can’t grow with you. 

Read reviews 

Take the extra effort to read feedback from other people who use the specific domain registrar. You can use social media and forums to get real-world feedback. 

Consider common perceptions, like complaints about hidden fees and poor support, to know which company you should avoid. Consistent positive feedback is a good sign of a reliable domain registrar. 

Consider features and additional services 

Domain registrars do more than sell domain names; they also offer tools and services that make your life easier. Look for added perks like web hosting, domain privacy protection, and SSL certificates, to enhance your web security and functionality. Bundling these services with your actual domain name simplifies management and reduces overall costs. 

For instance, Domain.com offers web hosting and website builder tools. These are great for those that are starting from scratch and want everything under one roof.  

Evaluate transfer policies 

It’s common for an end user to switch registrars as their business grows. So, look for a registrar with a transparent domain transfer policy to ensure they won’t trap you with hidden fees. 

It’s also good to check whether you can initiate the transfer easily through their platform.

Domain registration 

Registering your domain name at Domain.com is easy. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to secure your desired domain name. 

Step 1. Go to Domain.com’s main page and type your desired domain name in the search bar. If the domain name is unavailable, the platform will provide ideal alternatives for you to choose from. But if it’s available, the system will automatically add it to your cart. 

Choose the period you want to register a domain. With Domain.com, you can register your domain for up to five years. 

Domain Privacy Protection is automatically added to your cart, but you can always remove this. Although, we recommend it for your privacy. 

When done, click CONTINUE.  

Step 2. Domain.com will redirect you to the domain add-ons page, where you can add powerful tools, like Google Workspace Email and AI Website Builder—linking these tools with your domain name ensures seamless setup and often discounted pricing. 

You can also add layers of security protocols, like SSL Certificates and Domain Expiration Protection, to your cart to protect your domain from cyber threats, like domain hijacking and web spoofing. 

Step. 3. Proceed to billing. Fill out all the necessary information to register your domain. You can also log in to your Domain.com account to skip manually filling out the form. 

To ensure a successful domain name registration, double-check your billing details, like your name and payment method, before completing your purchase. 

Step 4. Finally, check your email to verify your purchase. Open your inbox and look for the email confirmation on your registered email account. Follow the instructions stated in the confirmation email. 

And you’re done!

Register your domain at Domain.com  

The right domain registrar is the key to a successful online journey. Having a reliable partner simplifies the process and secures your brand. From a smooth registration process to managing and securing your domain, your registrar plays a crucial role in ensuring everything runs seamlessly. 

Experience top-tier domain security features, reliable customer support, and a user-friendly interface with Domain.com.

Frequently asked questions