4 Simple Tips for Choosing a Domain Name

I remember getting my first domain name, oh yes, for the newbie, as we all were at one time, a domain name is also called a URL, which stands for 'uniform resource locator'. This is the internet address that identifies the location of a file in relation to your computer, in short, the file's location on your computer.

Okay, back to the excitement of getting a domain name, I remember being so excited because I had three perfect names in mind. Then came the disappointment!

"Not Available". This presented a greater challenge because the names I wanted were already taken. There were other choices and I wasn't too keen on those, so and I had to get creative. Unfortunately, sometimes being creative can present even more challenges than we'd like.

In all the excitement and plans for choosing a practical domain name that will suit your purposes, I think you'll find the following tips very helpful, especially if you're just a beginner. Experience has taught me a few lessons and I'd like to share some of those with you, so here they are:

1. Avoid using foreign words: Whatever your native language is, make an effort to stick with your own language in choosing your domain name. This will make it a lot easier for your friends and family to remember and definitely a whole lot easier to refer your website to others.
2. Avoid using the letters such as 'mn', 'sz', 'il', 'nr', or even '0O' (zero and O) side by side: These letters and numbers are very difficult to differentiate on some computer screens. Not all computer screens operate on the same resolution value and can be easily confused.
3. Avoid using sound-alike words, also called homonyms: Examples of homonyms are 'plain and plane', 'air and heir', or 'flee and flea'. The use of homonyms can create great confusion, not to mention that you'll be asked how to spell it again and again. Realistically, every time you tell someone your domain name they are bound to ask, "Do you mean doe or dough?"
4. Avoid using hyphens and dashes: Hyphens and dashes are acceptable in domain names, however, there are some of us that don't know the difference between a hyphen (-) and a dash (--). Too much work to differentiate, so they might not even attempt to look you up.

You may already have a domain name in mind before you even get a real one. Well if you do, then get ready for the fun to begin in trying to attain that perfect one because selecting or even creating your own domain name can be a lot of fun.

Do yourself a favor and follow these tips for greater ease in helping others find your website.